An urgent call for prayer for the DRC

In recent weeks, the violence against majority-Christian communities has reached alarming proportions.

For almost 30 years, the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has endured a violent insurgency of the extremist group Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), now affiliated with Islamic State. But in recent weeks, the violence against majority-Christian communities has reached alarming proportions. And our field teams are calling for urgent and fervent prayer.

Our local field resources report that in March and early April, including Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday, fresh attacks have killed more than 80 people (though the death toll is still rising), and an estimated 600, mostly farmers, were kidnapped.

The attacks forced more than 31,000 people to flee their homes, placing strain on churches and host communities. Militants also torched homes, motorbikes, and properties.

“Something never seen before”

The brutality of ADF attacks has always been horrific. But local contacts say the violence was “something never seen before.”

“Bodies being transported on motorbikes, with heads or feet severed,” one report shared. “Corpses strewn by the roadside like plastic bottles.”

Christians from affected areas fled their homes, seeking refuge in churches.

“Enough is enough”

Local leaders report that Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attacks and continues to support ADF operations.

“Enough is enough… Villages are being emptied,” one official said, urging the government to prioritize security.

Since the start of the year, dozens of Christians have been killed, with many living in fear and displacement.

“Pray for the faith of Christians”

The attacks have left churches nearly empty. Even during Easter, attendance dropped significantly.

“We usually have 250 worshippers, but this Easter we didn’t reach 150,” one pastor shared.

Despite this, believers gathered in faith, holding on to hope in Christ.

Church leaders are calling for global prayer—for strength, peace, and continued faith.

Across sub-Saharan Africa, Christians continue to face persecution. Yet through faith in Jesus, there is hope.

The church in Africa is calling for 1 million prayers. Will you respond?

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