In yet another devastating attack in north eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), at least 15 Christians were killed, including a pastor, when a church service was stormed by militants earlier this month.
Believers from a church called 8e CEPAC in the village of Manzia were gathered for a morning devotion on Monday 5 February when members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) attacked, shooting at least eight people.
Others were shot as they fled. The total number of deaths has not been confirmed, but it could be higher than 15.
Alphonse Mumbere (37), the pastor, leaves behind three children and a wife who is four months pregnant. Two evangelists, Saasita Baraka (34) and Seli Schak (40), were also amongst those killed.
Christians returning to traditional religious beliefs
The increasing violence in the region has pushed many Christians to turn to traditional religious beliefs.
"Your beloved prayer is very important to strengthen Christians and comfort them."
pastor Kambale
“We ask everyone who has a good will to continue to pray for us,” shares Pastor Kambale, from a nearby church. “Many Christians are currently turning back to traditional religion and they say it's better to have the protection [of these traditional gods] because the situation is bad.”
“The progress of God's Word is suffering because people think God is not going to act,” he continues. “That's why your prayer is of very paramount importance. Your beloved prayer is very important to strengthen Christians and comfort them. Thank you and we thank you we have faith that you will pray for us.”
please pray
- For God’s comfort and peace to surround all those grieving and despondent following this attack
- That Christians in the volatile north eastern region will be strengthened in their faith, and for His peace to conquer all fear
- For safety of believers in the region, and for the influence of the ADF and other militant groups to diminish.
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