29Democratic Republic of the Congo

In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Christians face severe persecution amid violent conflict. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) – religious extremists with ties to the Islamic State group – have deliberately targeted Christian communities through massacres, abductions and the destruction of churches. Survivors report atrocities that are intended to eradicate the Christian presence.

Christian converts endure social rejection, pressure to recant their faith, and exclusion from inheritance and community life. Refusal to perform traditional rites often results in intimidation.

Meanwhile, Catholic and Protestant church leaders who speak against state corruption or advocate for constitutional rights risk threats, surveillance and harassment. Church activities are disrupted, and clergy are publicly vilified. This contributes to a climate of fear in which calls for justice are systematically silenced.

Meet Abbé Paluku Nzalamingi

“It’s horrible what I saw… They killed almost all the people gathered at the place of mourning.”

Abbé Paluku Nzalamingi, a parish priest in the DRC who witnessed a massacre during a burial ceremony that left 70 dead.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors works through local partners and churches in the DRC to provide physical and spiritual support to persecuted Christians. This enables them to be resilient in the face of persecution through emergency aid, persecution-preparedness training and discipleship.