The Catholic Church, represented by Msgr. Donatien Nshole, is set to participate in an interfaith prayer initiative on February 9, proposed by Justice Minister Constant Mutamba. The initiative seeks to unify religious groups in prayer for peace in eastern DRC. Msgr. Nshole emphasized that prayers will extend to all affected individuals, not just soldiers, reflecting the Church’s mission to promote peace and support humanitarian efforts.
Monsignor Donatien Nshole, Secretary General of CENCO (Congolese National Episcopal Conference), announced that the Catholic Church is open to participating in an interfaith prayer initiative proposed by the Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, to be held on February 9. This initiative aims to unite various religious denominations in prayer for the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the populations affected by violence in the eastern region of the country. While the Church supports the act of praying for peace, it emphasizes that this prayer must extend to all affected individuals, not just the soldiers.
In response to concerns about the human and security crises in eastern DRC, Msgr. Nshole reflected on the dire conditions faced by soldiers and the humanitarian plight of the displaced individuals. He affirmed the Church’s mission: “Our mission as a Church is to pray. We are aware that the humanitarian and security situation in the east is catastrophic.” He emphasized that the Church will also pray for victims, families in distress, and orphaned children who are suffering due to the ongoing conflicts.
The Secretary General pointed out that offerings collected during the prayer events must align with Canon Law, which dedicates such funds for worship and charitable works. He noted that while military families are deserving of assistance, the Church’s contributions will remain consistent with its doctrines and commitment to serving all communities in need. This principle underlines a foundation built on respect and inclusion.
To conclude, Msgr. Nshole proclaimed the Church’s intent behind prayer: “We do not pray to win the war, but to obtain peace.” This illustrates the Church’s holistic approach to addressing the complexities of conflict and the need for collective peace efforts, ensuring that prayers extend to all those impacted by violence.
The context of this article revolves around the socio-political challenges facing the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where ongoing violence and insecurity have led to significant humanitarian crises. The proposal for interfaith prayer represents an effort to unify various religious groups for a common cause—peace and support for those affected by the conflict. The Catholic Church, under CENCO, recognizes its pastoral role and the need to address the spiritual and practical needs of all individuals impacted by these challenges.
In summary, the interfaith prayer initiative emphasizes the Catholic Church’s commitment to peace, inclusivity, and humanitarian support. It aims to bring together multiple religious denominations to pray for not only the military but also the victims of violence in eastern DRC. The emphasis on universal compassion and adherence to canonical guidelines for charitable donations illustrates the Church’s holistic approach to addressing complex issues related to war and peace.
Original Source: www.fides.org
