Lubumbashi: The call by Pope Leo XIV for a disarmed and disarming peace has been warmly welcomed in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country that has lived through decades of conflict and instability.
Archbishop Fulgence Muteba of Lubumbashi, who also serves as president of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo, said Pope’s message has been received with deep joy and gratitude by the people. He explained that peace is not an abstract idea for Congolese families, but a long cherished hope rooted in daily suffering and perseverance.
Speaking to Vatican News, Archbishop Muteba said Pope’s constant appeal for peace speaks not only to Africa but to the entire world. According to him, the Holy Father is touching a universal concern at a time when violence, fear, and division affect many nations.
The archbishop also welcomed Pope’s strong emphasis on the Church’s social teaching and the continuity of concern for creation inspired by Laudato si. He warned that the future of humanity depends on protecting the environment and stopping the destruction of nature, which often goes hand in hand with injustice and conflict.
Reflecting on the Jubilee of Hope in his archdiocese, Archbishop Muteba said the year was lived with deep faith and commitment. He noted that Christians, teachers, Catholic movements, and local communities took part actively, renewing their faith and strengthening their sense of mission. The Jubilee journey, he said, helped people rediscover hope even amid hardship.
Looking ahead to the new year, the archbishop expressed his desire for a realistic but faith filled hope. In a country still marked by tragic situations and the absence of lasting peace, he said hope is essential to renew the faith of the people and to keep them moving forward. He prayed for more peace and more hope for the nation and the world.
Archbishop Muteba also highlighted the importance of synodality, saying it helps the Church grow in unity and shared responsibility beyond differences of language, culture, or background.
During his Christmas homily, he reminded the faithful that celebrating the birth of Jesus is not just about remembering the past, but about welcoming Christ into daily life. He said the mystery of the Incarnation reveals the dignity of every human person and God’s deep love for humanity.
He stressed that Christmas calls for respect for human dignity, often described as Ubuntu, reminding people that human life is worth more than material wealth. In this context, he criticized the unjust exploitation of the country’s natural resources and compared it to a new form of economic colonialism. He called for respect for the Congolese people, genuine peace, and integral development.
The archbishop also spoke about the dignity of children, especially those living on the streets. He strongly condemned the violence, kidnappings, and forced recruitment that many children face.
Finally, recalling that Jesus is the Prince of Peace, Archbishop Muteba appealed for an immediate end to violence in the country. He called for dialogue, reconciliation, and forgiveness, warning that refusing peace ultimately means refusing God’s plan for humanity.