Catholic Bishop in DR Congo Calls for Prayers, Unity in Preparation for Papal Visit

In his four-day pastoral visit to DRC, the Holy Father is scheduled to meet the people of God in the cities of Kinshasa and Goma, the latter city being the capital of North Kivu Province in Eastern DRC.

In his May 23 statement, Bishop Ngumbi gives thanks to the Lord “for the progress of works on the site of the Papal Mass of 04 July 2022” in Goma.

“The measures taken for this great day that we are all waiting for imply great sacrifices and depend on many sectors: liturgical, pastoral, security, health, communication, logistics, financial, etc.,” the 57-year-old Bishop who has been at the helm of Goma Diocese since May 2019 following his transfer from DRC’s Kindu Diocese says.

In order to bring the preparations to a successful conclusion, Bishop Ngumbi says, “It is imperative that another Eucharistic Celebration be held with our active participation at the site.”

He announces the celebration of Holy Mass “at the Papal Mass Site on Sunday, June 12, 2022.”

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“During this Eucharistic celebration, the Sacrament of Confirmation will be administered to the candidates of the Parishes of the Deanery of Goma,” the Local Ordinary of Goma Diocese says.

When realized, the July 2-7 pastoral trip to the two African countries will mark Pope Francis’ third visit to sub-Saharan Africa. The journey will be the third Papal trip to DRC, which is home to Africa's largest Catholic population.

In a May 20 report the Cardinal in DRC said Pope Francis is expected to visit the country in July despite his health challenges, especially the pain in his knee.

“Pope Francis confirmed that he is coming. Unless there are new developments,” Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo was quoted as saying.

Earlier this month, the 85-year-old Pope started using a wheelchair in public due to a torn ligament in his right knee. The knee pain has seen him cancel some of his engagements.