Pope Francis lands in DR Congo, welcomed with pleasure

Pope Francis has arrived within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a part of a six-day go to to the African continent that features a journey to South Sudan.

It’s the first time {that a} pope has visited the DRC since 1985, a rustic with a inhabitants near 100 million folks, 40 p.c of whom are Catholic.

“That he has left dwelling to come back to us here’s a pleasure, for me, I see it as a dream come true. We waited for him final yr, effectively even when he mentioned he postponed, I didn’t have a lot hope anymore, however to see now that it occurs, I’m thrilled! I don’t know what else to say however I’m thrilled!”, mentioned worshipper Clémentine Teka.

The Pope is aiming to convey a message of peace to the 2 nations riven by poverty and battle.

“After we see an excellent authority just like the pope coming to the Congo, it reveals that diplomacy is working and as a Christian, his presence can be as a person of God.
I’m not a Catholic, however the presence of a person of God within the nation can be a blessing. So we are able to solely reward his presence”, mentioned Kinshasa resident Andy Lombi.

Throughout his go to to DRC, the Pope will meet the authorities but additionally meet victims of violence in addition to members of the clergy and charities working within the nation.

Help teams are hoping Francis’ journey will shine a highlight on two of the world’s forgotten conflicts and rekindle worldwide consideration on a few of Africa’s worst humanitarian crises, amid donor fatigue and new assist priorities in Ukraine.

Tens of 1000’s of individuals are anticipated to attend a prayer vigil Tuesday night at N’dolo airport forward of a mass on Wednesday morning, which is tipped to attract greater than a million devoted.