Jihadist Attack on Church Leaves Dozens Dead and Sparks Outcry

The article details a horrific massacre in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Sunday, perpetrated by Jihadists allied with the Islamic State. The attack targeted Christians who were worshiping in a church, resulting in the deaths of at least 49 people. Among the victims were nine children who were beheaded. Several other children were abducted. The attackers were identified as members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a sanctioned rebel group with roots in Uganda.

A local church partner of Open Doors UK, a global Christian charity, witnessed the aftermath of the attack in the village of Komanda. They gathered accounts from survivors, including a shop owner who escaped the attack. The church worker pieced together the events, revealing the brutality of the assault.

Judith, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, described the scene as one of profound sadness. People were already fleeing the village, carrying their belongings. The village was quiet, with people gathered in groups, visibly distressed. Worshipers from surrounding villages had gathered to celebrate the church’s Silver Jubilee and pray for peace.

The attackers beheaded Christians inside the church. Those who tried to escape were caught and killed in the compound. Others who fled towards the road were also killed. All victims were killed with machetes, and most of the victims were Catholics.

Another shopkeeper expressed bewilderment at the violence. The United Nations' MONUSCO mission brought in equipment to create a mass grave for the victims. Some of those buried had sought refuge in Komanda after being attacked elsewhere.

At the funeral, Judith witnessed widespread grief. People mourned their lost children and loved ones. They lamented the loss of everything they owned.

Senator Jim Risch condemned the attack, emphasizing the urgency of the peace process. Henrietta Blyth, CEO of Open Doors UK and Ireland, described the situation as a "silent slaughter" and a crisis of biblical proportions. She highlighted the targeting of women and children.

Blyth stated that the Islamists are attempting to establish a caliphate in a country with a large Christian population. Christians are afraid to sleep in their homes, fearing attacks. She estimated that over 16 million Christians have been displaced in Sub-Saharan Africa due to violence.

Jo Newhouse, a Sub-Sahara specialist for Open Doors, noted that the organization has reported over 80 deaths in other attacks this month. Judith mentioned that peace accords have not improved the situation. She believes that a peace agreement with the ADF is needed.

The Islamist attackers withdrew a few miles away, and no arrests have been made. A local source indicated that another attack could occur at any time. Judith suggested that pressure from the U.S. on governments like Uganda and Rwanda could help improve the situation.