Pope Francis prays for victims of recent massacre in Congo
Pope Francis marked the feast of the Assumption of Mary by praying for the dozens of people massacred last weekend in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and decrying the “shameful silence” which surround these attacks. At least 36 civilians were killed late Saturday during an attack blamed on the Rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), though the death toll could be as high as 42. Local authorities say it is the deadliest attack in the conflict-ridden region this year.
The Pope said during Monday’s Angelus address: “To the Queen of Peace, who we contemplate today in heavenly glory, I wish to entrust once again the anxieties and sufferings of the people who, in many parts of the world, are innocent victims of persistent conflict.”
Attacks in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s North Kivu province have long been “perpetuated in shameful silence, without even drawing our attention,” he stated, and its victims include the “many innocent people who have no influence on global opinion.”
“May Mary obtain for everyone sentiments of understanding, and a desire for harmony!”
ACN Malta
