For too long stained with blood

The following is a translation of His Holiness Pope Francis’ appeal after his catechesis on discernment in Saint Peter’s Square on Wednesday, 26 October.

We look on in horror at the events that continue to stain the Democratic Republic of the Congo with blood. I strongly deplore the unacceptable assault that has taken place in recent days in Maboya, North Kivu Province, where defenceless people, including a religious sister engaged in health care, were killed. Let us pray for the victims and their families, as well as for the Christian community and the inhabitants of that region who have been exhausted by violence for too long.