WCC news: WCC condemns attack on Catholic church in Democratic Republic of Congo

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed shock and horror over an attack on a Catholic church in Komanda, in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on 27 July. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert 30 July 2025 "The assault, which left at least 43 people dead, is a tragic and unacceptable act of violence against innocent worshippers gathered in prayer,” said Pillay. “The burning of homes and shops surrounding the church further underscores the senseless destruction and trauma inflicted on the local community.” Such acts of terror not only violate fundamental human rights and humanitarian principles, Pillay said, but also the most basic values of morality and faith including human dignity and the sanctity of life.  “We call on national authorities to take every measure to ensure the protection of civilians and places of worship, and we urge the international community to support peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts in the DRC,” said Pillay. “We also call upon all people of goodwill to reject extremism in all its forms and to join in prayer and action for justice, healing, and lasting peace in the region.” Read the full statement See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 356 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland