Centenary of DR Congo’s Religious Order to Engage Parishioners

“The cross, which was before a sign of a curse, has become for you an instrument of blessing, salvation and victory,” Bishop Sikulu told the congregation that gathered to mark the beginning of the year-long celebration.

The Crosier missionaries began their pastoral work in the diocese of Bondo within the Ecclesiastical province of Kisangani in DR Congo in December 1920.

In 1965, their pastoral care suffered a major setback when 27 Crosier priests and those from other congregations were killed by "Mulele" rebels alongside other civilians.

This incident forced the missionaries to move from Bondo to Butembo-Beni 1984, where they have been exercising their pastoral ministry to date.

"The Crosiers shed their blood for their mission in our diocese,” said Bishop Etienne Ung'eyowun of Bondo diocese at the end of the Mass marking the launch of the centenary celebrations.

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“We rejoice that young people are joining the Order,” the Congolese Bishop said and added, “Our hope is that the Order should one day return to Bondo.”

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.