Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kinshasa ( Fides Service) - Christ the King parish in Idumbe, at the heart of Democratic Congo about 200 kilometres from Kole, celebrated its 70th anniversary on November 21 with a Mass presided by the Episcopal Vicar of Kole diocese Mgr Jean Belambo, on behalf of the Bishop of Kole. Stanislas Lukumwena, during which 112 people were confirmed. The local civil and administrative authorities, chiefs, representatives of the local police, family members and local Catholics were among those present.
The parish was founded by Father Casimir Recko and Father Eligius religious of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Picpus who arrived in Idumbe in 1933. Father Eligius erected a 7 metre high cross at the main crossroads in Idumbe. In 1934 Father Recko founded the Sacred Heart parish and was joined by two more confreres Brother Bernard and Father Alphonse. Missionary work was facilitated by an good atmosphere, fertile soil and hospitable local people
Later other religious came to work in Idumbe. In 1980 the Brothers of the Living Christ followed by Tertiary Franciscans of the Living Christ who open a novitiate in the area. Four years later, the Franciscan Sisters of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ open a house in Idumbe and work at the hospital as well as offering formation for women. In March 1992, the Divine Word Missionaries take the place of the Picpus Fathers.
In 1999 during the civil war 1998-2003, Idumbe was the centre of fierce combat and all kinds of violence. The parish, which was a jewel in Kole diocese, lost its herd of cows, and many buildings. In 2001, when the war was over, the parish was entrusted to Kole diocesan clergy. Father Ferdinand Ndongo became the first African parish priest in Idumbe. Thanks to hard work on the part of the local clergy, Sacred Heart parish in Idumbe is once again a thriving centre of Christianity. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 1/12/2004 righe 29 parole 360)
