The Bishops of Burundi, DRC, and Rwanda express solidarity with affected people in Goma due to escalating violence. They condemn the violence, urge political dialogue, and call for urgent humanitarian aid for the injured. The ACEAC emphasizes the need for unity among young people to counter division and promote peace in the region.
In a recent statement, the Catholic Bishops from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Rwanda expressed their solidarity with the people of Goma, who are suffering from renewed violence. Signed by ACEAC President Bishop José Moko of Idiofa, the Bishops condemned the conflicts reigniting in Goma, which have led to a tragic loss of life and significant injuries among civilians.
The Association of Central African Bishops (ACEAC) emphasized the urgent need for preventative measures to halt the escalation of violence in Goma. Bishop Moko highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis that has emerged, exacerbating the vulnerability of already distressed populations and deteriorating trust within communities.
Bishop Moko extended heartfelt compassion to those impacted by the conflict, acknowledging the grief of families who have lost loved ones, including children. He condemned ongoing violence, describing it as a recurring source of distress for the people of Goma, who have experienced significant suffering.
In his remarks, Bishop Moko called upon the political leaders in the Great Lakes region and the international community to actively engage in dialogue and collaborative efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis in Goma. He reiterated the importance of upholding human dignity and rights as part of any resolution to the conflict.
The Bishops urged that young people unite to overcome division and hatred, which threatens the social cohesion of the region. Furthermore, they appealed to the international community to provide urgent aid, especially for those wounded in Goma, where hospitals are reportedly overwhelmed and facing critical shortages of supplies.
The ACEAC Bishops made a poignant appeal to those responsible for the violence and misinformation, urging them to refrain from actions that could exacerbate the chaos. They emphasized the need for human solidarity and collective effort to support the relief efforts directed at aiding victims, the injured, and the displaced within Goma.
Lastly, the Bishops implored Christian communities to offer assistance to those affected by the violence, fostering a spirit of support and care in this challenging time. They concluded with a prayer for peace in Goma and throughout the Great Lakes region, entrusting their peoples to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The statement from the Catholic Bishops of Burundi, DRC, and Rwanda highlights the critical situation in Goma, where violence has recently intensified, resulting in numerous civilian casualties and displacements. The ACEAC, dedicated to promoting peace and solidarity, seeks to address the underlying issues leading to conflict while advocating for humanitarian aid to support affected communities.
In summary, the Catholic Bishops from Burundi, DRC, and Rwanda have united in condemning the violence in Goma, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid and a resolution to the conflict. They appeal for dialogue, support from the international community, and care for those displaced by violence. Their message underscores the importance of solidarity and hope amidst the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
