“Be careful with the quest for power”: Catholic Bishop of DR Congo’s Goma Diocese to 15 Newly Ordained Priests

The Catholic Bishop, who has been at the helm of Goma Diocese since May 2019 following his transfer from DRC’s Kindu Diocese further said, “You are called to be pastors according to the heart of God.”

“You won't make it on your own. Entrust yourselves to prayer and above all to Marian devotion, which will help you to remain firm in your commitments and better accomplish your mission,” said the Local Ordinary of Goma. 

People have been fleeing armed clashes in the Eastern part of DRC since the January 27 takeover of Goma, the capital of DRC’s Eastern Province, by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels. 

The Congolese city has been a flashpoint for violence as armed groups continue to clash, displacing thousands and creating a severe humanitarian crisis. 

The city, home to nearly 2 million residents, is now facing challenges ranging from displacement to resource shortages and infrastructure damage, Reuters has reported.

More in Africa

Caritas Day 2025 in Angola: Catholic Bishop Urges Active Participation in Caritas’ Mission of Charity

Read the article

During his March 19 ordination homily, Bishop Ngumbi reflected on the humanitarian, economic, and security challenges in Eastern DRC, calling on leaders to take urgent action.

“The situation demands the special attention of authorities at all levels,” he said, and appealed for solidarity with the poor, particularly the many vulnerable families in Goma and its surrounding areas, including the wives and children of soldiers.

“We know the difficulties are immense—there is no money, banks are closed, insecurity and tribalism prevail, and people are being assassinated. Many go to bed hungry due to extreme poverty,” Bishop Ngumbi said, and emphasized, “The Church calls on us to help those in need.”

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.