Pope Leo XIV Condemns Congo Church Massacre, Offers Prayers for Persecuted Christians Worldwide

Pope Leo XIV Condemns Congo Church Massacre, Offers Prayers for Persecuted Christians Worldwide

Vatican City: Following the horrific terrorist attack on a Catholic church in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Leo XIV has delivered a heartfelt appeal for justice, peace, and protection of persecuted Christians, while assuring the global Christian community of his prayers and spiritual solidarity. The Pope's remarks came during his first General Audience after the summer recess, held in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday.

Expressing profound sorrow, the Holy Father said, “I renew my deep sorrow for the brutal terrorist attack that took place during the night of July 26 to 27 in Komanda, in eastern Congo, where more than forty Christians were murdered while at prayer and in their own homes.” The deadly assault occurred at the Parish of Blessed Anuarite in Ituri Province, when armed rebels stormed the church during a prayer vigil, leaving at least 38 people dead inside the sacred space, with several more lives claimed in the surrounding village.

In his somber address, Pope Leo XIV entrusted the victims to God’s eternal mercy and offered heartfelt prayers for the wounded. He extended his spiritual support to all Christians worldwide who suffer from violence, discrimination, and persecution because of their faith. “I pray for the wounded and for all Christians around the world who continue to endure suffering for their belief in Christ,” the Pope said, urging believers not to lose hope even in the darkest of times.

The Pope's appeal carried a strong message to world leaders and peace advocates. “I urge those with responsibilities, both locally and on the international stage, to act decisively and in unity to prevent such heinous crimes,” he declared, calling for concerted efforts to stop religious violence and restore peace in conflict-ridden regions.

In a telegram of condolence sent earlier this week, Pope Leo described the slain as martyrs, proclaiming, “May the blood of these martyrs become a seed of peace, reconciliation, fraternity, and love for the Congolese people.” His words echoed the long-standing Church tradition of honoring the faithful who perish for their beliefs, and served as a call to action against growing religious extremism in vulnerable parts of the world.

The massacre in Komanda is one of the deadliest attacks on Christians in the Congo in recent years and has reignited global concern over the safety of religious minorities in war-torn and unstable regions. With Pope Leo XIV’s appeal, the Vatican has once again positioned itself as a moral voice for the voiceless, standing in unwavering solidarity with the persecuted and martyred.


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