An outdoor church was bombed during its service this month.
The church, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was hosting baptisms prior to the attack.
Over 62 people were baptized on the day of the attack. Church leaders believe the motive behind the terrorist attack was the influx of new believers in the region.
“We were in the midst of a church service outdoors… a bomb has just exploded, a bomb planted by terrorists whom we have not yet identified…Everyone has fled to where they can. But many of our church members are seriously injured and many are dead. Pray for us.” One church leader wrote, as reported in this Instagram post.
Church was bombed in Democratic Republic of Congo
Located in the DRC, the church lands on the 37th most dangerous place to be a Christian in the world. According to the World Watch List, Christians in the eastern parts of the DRC are threatened by Islamic terrorist groups. Woman face abduction and sexual abuse, while many people flee their villages for safer areas.
For believers in the DRC, community and church gatherings are difficult due to organized crime groups that target Christians. Even more, the legal system offers little justice–if any–to those impacted.
“We remember what you told us, that we are under threat of untold persecution. Today we are truly persecuted.”
Images from the post show devastated church members taking in what remains after the church was bombed. Pastors of the church request prayers for their congregations, families, and safety since the attack.
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” (Matthew 5:43-44)
“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18)
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10)
Photo courtesy of Reuters. Retrieved January 24, 2023. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/death-toll-rises-14-congo-church-attack-claimed-by-islamic-state-2023-01-16/