Today our brother Floribert Bwana Chui was beatified.
Together with our brothers and sisters from communities around the world, we join in this joyous celebration.
Floribert’s first love was the Gospel. When his tortured and lifeless body was discovered, he had a Bible in his pocket. The Word always strengthened Floribert, even in the darkest times.
Floribert’s second love was for children. Through Sant’Egidio, Floribert met the street children of Goma, who he would welcome into his arms at the School of Peace. For them he became a brother, a friend, and a protector. Because of him, thousands were saved and able to pass through the halls of the School of Peace in Goma.
Floribert’s third love was peace. Inspired by the peace in Mozambique, Floribert knew that peace in his own country was possible. Even in front of the threats of power and corruption, Floribert never stopped to speak of peace.
The Word, the children and peace defined Floribert until the very end. Killed because he refused to succumb to corruption, refused to allow spoil food to enter his country.
We rejoice in the church’s recognition of our brother Floribert. We pray in particular for our brothers and sisters in Goma and for the children of the School of Peace there. May his legacy of humility, love and standing up to corruption bring a new day for Goma and for the world.
More images from his beatification can be found here