Kinshasa, October 15, 2024 – The commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the death of Sister Marie-Clémentine Anuarite Nengapeta, a famous “martyr of purity”, is an event that has attracted the attention and commitment of the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo. During an exchange at the Prime Minister’s Office in Kinshasa, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa pledged to actively support the organization of this commemoration, by setting up a committee responsible for preparations, including the construction of a sanctuary in Isiro.
Blessed Anuarite Nengapeta, originally from Haut-Uélé, a province in the northeast of the DRC, embodies profound and universal values that humanity must promote. Her martyrdom dates back to December 1, 1964, and she was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1985. Since then, the Catholic Church in the DRC has celebrated December 1 every year in her memory.
During the meeting between the Prime Minister and a delegation of Haut-Uélé notables, concerns related to pilgrimages following in Anuarite’s footsteps were shared. These commemorative events, scheduled from November 26 to December 3, 2024 in Isiro, are of great importance to the Catholic Church and the Congolese Nation.
The construction of shrines in memory of Anuarite is a challenge to be met, and the Prime Minister has committed to supporting the Church in this process. The commemorative ceremony will therefore be an opportunity to pay tribute to this emblematic figure, but also to promote the values of purity, courage and faith that she defended.
In conclusion, the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the death of Sister Marie-Clémentine Anuarite Nengapeta is an important event that testifies to the perseverance and dedication of this great religious figure. Her spiritual legacy continues to inspire and nourish the faith of many faithful across the country, and her memory remains alive in the hearts and minds of those who recognize her contribution to building a society based on noble and universal values.