By Francesca Merlo, Vatican News – Edited for publication
Amid intensifying violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Catholic Church remains a pillar of hope and solidarity. Bishop Melchisédech Sikuli Paluku of the Diocese of Butembo-Beni issued a heartfelt call for resilience and faith during his Palm Sunday homily, urging the faithful not to despair in the face of growing insecurity.
“We must never lose faith, no matter what happens to us. Even when everything seems dark, God will never abandon us,” the bishop declared during Mass, offering comfort to communities traumatized by the ongoing conflict.
The North Kivu region, where Bishop Sikuli serves, has been one of the hardest hit by the resurgence of armed violence. The M23 rebel group has advanced significantly, capturing Goma—the capital of North Kivu—and forcing thousands to flee. On the night of April 11–12, violent clashes in Goma’s western districts left at least 50 civilians dead. Both the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and M23 have blamed each other for the killings, while local sources attribute the violence to a counteroffensive launched by the pro-government Wazalendo militia.
Bishop Sikuli lamented that many victims of the conflict remain invisible to the international community. “Evil will not have the final word in history,” he said, encouraging Christians to be witnesses of hope despite the overwhelming suffering.
In neighboring South Kivu, the situation remains equally precarious. After M23 rebels seized Bukavu in February, civilians in nearby areas report a growing sense of fear. The Association Against Evil and for the Support of Youth (ACMEJ) published findings indicating that people under government control now dread both armed militias and soldiers due to incidents of indiscriminate gunfire.
The bishop’s message comes at a time when control of the region by both government forces and allied militias is faltering. Nevertheless, his appeal underscores the Church’s commitment to being a source of accompaniment and strength, standing with the people of the DRC during one of their darkest hours.
Sources:
- Vatican News. “DRC Bishop offers closeness amidst turmoil.” Francesca Merlo. April 2025. https://www.vaticannews.va
- ACMEJ (Association Contre le Mal et pour l’Encadrement de la Jeunesse), Local Reports – South Kivu, April 2025.
Society of Jesus' social apostolate 