Seventy people have been found beheaded in a church in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in what’s the latest devastating attack on believers in the north east of the country.
The bodies were discovered over the weekend in a church in the abandoned village of Kasanga. The victims were apparently taken as hostages by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) – Islamist extremists with ties to so-called Islamic State (IS) – and held for several days before being killed.
Last week, several ADF attacks emptied villages in the Lumbero Territory and many of the bodies found in the church were identified as those missing after these attacks. The region is in North Kivu province, where the militant group have been particularly active in recent times.
“Open Doors strongly condemns this heinous act of violence against civilians and calls upon civil societies, governments and international organisations to prioritise civilian protection in eastern DRC where armed groups, such as the ADF, are operating,” says John Samuel*, Open Doors’ legal expert for the work in sub-Saharan Africa.
“The violence takes place in a context of impunity, where almost no one is held accountable,” he continues. “
This massacre is a clear indicator of widespread human rights violations against civilians and vulnerable communities, often targeting Christians, perpetrated by ADF – a [so-called Islamic State] affiliate.”
Rise in violence and internal displacement
DRC rose six places to number 35 on the World Watch List due to an increase in violence against Christians. Last year, 355 were killed for their faith, compared with 261 the previous year, whilst an estimated 10,000 were internally displaced, which is ten times more than 2023. The recent activities of the M23 rebel group, reportedly supported by Rwanda, has added to the vulnerability of Christians.
“We further call on the international Christian community to remain in prayer for Christians and vulnerable communities in eastern DRC,” adds John Samuel. “Pray for an end to violence and that government at all levels will diligently, impartially and transparently address the violence and its effects. Pray for the church in the Lumbero Territory as she seeks to bring physical and spiritual assistance to the families affected.”
please pray
- That all those affected will experience the truth of Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
- That those in power, both nationally and internationally, will use their influence and resources to provide far greater protection and justice for those targeted by militant and rebel groups
- That the church in north east DRC will be equipped to care and disciple believers amidst rising persecution.
Arise Africa Petition
Christian leaders across sub-Saharan Africa are calling on the global church to stand with them against violent persecution. Sign the global Arise Africa petition asking for protection, justice and restoration.
Sign the petition
