Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry (LPGM) expresses its deepest sorrow over the senseless killings of 16 Lutheran church members at the hands of rebel forces in Bohong, Central African Republic (CAR) on April 3, just days after Easter Sunday celebrations.

"My wife and I were invited to celebrate this holiday in a congregation in Bohong," wrote the Rev. Joseph NGOE, president of the Eglise Evangelique Lutherienne en RCA ("Evangelical Lutheran Church in CAR"). "We were there from Saturday afternoon until Sunday afternoon. It was a matter of joy to be with brothers and sisters in Christ. [Now] … we are saddened."

"Our hearts are broken for the families who have lost loved ones in this horrific attack," said the Rev. Daniel Ruth, executive director of LPGM. "It's especially tragic after so recently celebrating God's Easter proclamation that life conquers death."

According to reports from the region, the victims were attacked and killed by rebels from the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC).

LPGM condemns this act of terror against innocent civilians in the strongest possible terms. The nonprofit Christian advocacy group calls for swift action to protect vulnerable populations, and to de-escalate the brutal conflict between government and rebel forces in the Central African Republic.

"Scripture teaches us that pursuits of power through violence are abhorrent in the eyes of God," said the Rev. Ruth. "We pray for the families and community torn apart by this tragedy, and for peace to prevail over hatred and bloodshed."

LPGM is encouraging its supporters to donate to the women's literacy program run by the EEL-RCA that gives women and girls in CAR the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Give NowRead more about the program

About Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry

LPGM is an independent pan-Lutheran 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Since 1995, LPGM has been working - and walking - with global partners to provide resources and opportunities for people at the margins, especially women and girls.