Floribert Bwana was 26 years old when he was killed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The reason? He chose honesty and refused to be corrupted.
His example has been an inspiration for Catholics in his country. Pope Francis himself remembered him during his trip in 2023.
POPE FRANCIS
Fifteen years ago, when he was only 26 years old, he was killed in Goma for blocking the entry of spoiled food that would have harmed people's health. He could have let it through — no one would have found out, and he even could have profited. However, as a Christian, he prayed, thought of others, and chose to be honest, saying 'no' to the filth of corruption.
On Trinity Sunday, Floribet was beatified at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. The next day, Pope Leo received a delegation of pilgrims who had traveled to Rome to attend the celebration. Among those present were family members of Floribert, including his mother, whom Pope Leo XIV wished to greet personally. He then delivered his speech in French.
POPE LEO XIV
An African martyr, in a continent rich in youth, shows how young people can be a leaven of peace — 'unarmed and disarming.' A Congolese layman highlights the precious value of the witness of laypeople and youth.
Floribert belonged to the Community of Sant’Egidio, an institution especially committed to the promotion of global peace.
For example, in 1992, Sant’Egidio played a key role in promoting the peace process in Mozambique. They have also spent years fostering relations between Catholics and Muslims throughout the world, for instance in Iran.
JRB
