Father Adeodatus Muhigi is among the Roman Catholic faithful in Democratic Republic of Congo's restive city of Goma who prepared to welcome Pope Francis last July, before the pontiff had to postpone a trip to Africa because of a knee ailment.
Pope Francis leads the Angelus prayer from his window at the Vatican. Vatican Media/Handout via REUTERS
When the plan for Francis' visit to the Central African Country, the first by a pontiff in 38 years, was revived, there was no longer any mention of a visit to Goma after rebel violence flared in the region. "We know that it was in his heart to come to Goma, that is why he insisted that there should be a group from Goma, especially victims of the violence who he wanted to meet. So, we understand. It shows that he really wanted to come."between the Tutsi-led M23 rebel group and the Congolese army. The rebels have seized territories in a rapid onslaught and advanced to around 20 km from Goma. The fighting has displaced at least 450,000 people.
"We have focused on victims - victims of the various wars, violence, and those who suffered natural disasters," he said.
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