VATICAN, Aug. 25 (FIDES/CWNews.com)

    An African prelate has suggested that the experience of young people from Congo at World Youth day might encourage them to work for peace in that troubled country.

    Cardinal Frederic Nzabi Bamungwabi of Kinshasa told the Fides news service that while he was delighted by the spiritual energy shown by many African pilgrims during World Youth Day, he could not forget the many others who remained in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a country where bloody military conflicts remain unresolved.

    Cardinal Bamungwabi told Fides that "I never thought I would see so many devoted, serious young Catholics" as he encountered at World Youth Day. Many young people from other countries wanted to learn about the troubles in Congo (once known as Zaire), where armies from nine different African countries are engaged in a protracted struggle for power.

    "I told them about it, and asked them to pray for the young people of Congo," the cardinal said. He explained that many young people "are caught up in the fighting, and many die because of the war, without knowing why."

    "The majority of these young people are forced to become soldiers," Cardinal Bamungwabi continued. "Very few join of their own accord. The various leaders oblige them to fight."

    He pointed out that the Catholic bishops of Congo have asked the contending parties to allow children the finish their education, but armies and guerrilla movements continue enlist children as young as 12 or 13 years old. "Those responsible for this are guilty of a horrendous crime," the cardinal said.

    Cardinal Bamungwabi told Fides that he met with the African youngsters who had travelled to Rome, and "I told them to carry the joy of the World Youth Day to those at home who were unable to come. I warned them that they are bound to come up against difficulties, but not to lose hope…. Even if adults make war, young people must strive to make peace and spread joy."

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