AFRICA/CONGO DR - Bishops' strong condemnation regarding the attack against priests and religious women in Lodja

Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) - "It is unacceptable to blame the church personnel who, faithful to the hierarchy, exercise their pastoral ministry", said a statement from the Episcopal Conference of the Democratic Republic of Congo (CENCO) condemning the attack suffered by two pastors on Sunday October 12 in Lodja, 750 km north of Mbuji-Mayi capital of Kasai oriental. On the same day, a convent was devastated (see Fides 14/10/2014). The two priests were attacked by some young people after reading the Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops' Conference during Sunday Mass which criticizes the proposed constitutional amendment that would allow incumbent President, Joseph Kabila, to stand for election for a third term (see Fides 17/09/2014).
In the message published on 14 October, the Bishops argue that the pastoral Letter "sparked a lively debate". CENCO also states that "there is no rebellion of the Catholic faithful against the hierarchy of the Church, but a manipulation of some non-Catholic youth".
The Bishops urged the authorities to ensure the safety of priests, religious men and women and pastoral workers, as well as places of worship. Finally, the faithful are invited to pray for the good of the nation. The Bishops have organized three days of prayer, from October 17 to 19, all over the Country, "so that God may enlighten the future of the nation". (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 16/10/2014)