Pastor Rumenera Calls for Peace, Reconciliation in DR Congo

Pastor Willy Rumenera has urged Bukavu Christians in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to remain steadfast in their faith, saying the love of Christ can help heal emotional wounds and foster reconciliation in divided communities.

Rumenera, who heads Comfort My People Rwanda and Teen Challenge East Africa, delivered the message during an evangelism visit to RHEMA/SEI Pentecostal Church in Bukavu on 11 October.

He said he had accepted an invitation from Pastor Ngoyi Patrick, who had recently visited Comfort My People in Rwanda, to share the Gospel and encourage Christians in Bukavu.

“I gladly accepted the invitation because I have a deep desire to see more people come to know Christ, receive salvation and grow stronger in their faith,” He said.

He said he also wanted to reassure Christians facing difficulties that they had not been abandoned by God.

“Even when people go through difficult times, God never abandons them. Borders may separate countries, but they cannot stop the love of Christ,” he said.

Pastor highlights Church’s role in reconciliation

Drawing on Isaiah 41:10, which includes the words “Do not fear, for I am with you”, Rumenera encouraged Christians to remain firm in their faith despite the challenges they face.

He said the warm reception he received from the congregation made the visit particularly meaningful.

“I went to Bukavu hoping to be a blessing to them, but I also left having received a great blessing myself. They welcomed me as an honoured guest, but I left feeling that I was part of their family,” he said.

Rumenera said he hoped evangelism would help heal emotional wounds, rebuild trust and bring people together across ethnic and other divisions.

“I want to see wounded hearts healed, people who had been separated draw close to one another again, and people learn to forgive and live together as brothers and sisters,” he said.

He added that lasting peace begins in people’s hearts and extends to families and society, stressing that churches have an important role to play in reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

Rumenera said he and his colleagues would continue seeking partners to support evangelism and reconciliation gatherings in different parts of the DRC.

“This is my prayer for the Congo: that God brings peace, heals wounded hearts and helps everyone recognise once again that they are brothers and sisters,” he said.

According to figures shared with RWANDA SUN, the message from Bukavu reached more than 25,000 people on Facebook.

Rumenera concluded by praying for peace and unity in the city and across the country.

“May God bless Bukavu, bless the DRC, and continue to unite us in the love of Christ,” he said.