Dear Brothers,

While here in Africa, we cannot forget our three brothers who were kidnapped one year ago, October 19 2012. Fathers Jean-Pierre MUMBERE NDULANI, Anselme KAKULE WASUKUNDI and Edmond BAMTUPE KISUGHU are unjustly absent from Assumption and from their respective families.  We still have no news and every lead explored has failed to produce results.  The wait is long and painful.  We pray that the kidnappers give us credible news with authentic proofs.

The congregation during this waiting period has not remained with its arms crossed.  Fr. Protais KABILA, provincial of Africa, has consacrated a lot of time to try to obtain information.  He has not avoided every painful effort.  The African provincial council has also very often been asked for information.  As for the General Council, it has undertaken steps with the Holy See. Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis have both been personally informed of the situation.  Numerous initiatives have been taken to inform the media of the situation in the DR Congo.  This work of gathering and divulging information must continue.

We thank the Assumptionist communities who, around the world, continue to pray for their liberation.  Several communities have placed a photo of our three brothers in their chapels.  We encourage every initiative that will guard against the risk of forgetting and of resignation.  Please do not hesitate to implore the intercession of Venerable Emmanuel d' Alzon with the Father of all mercies.  Let us pray also for those responsible for the kidnapping.  Let us pray that the Lord change their hearts.  Let us finally pray for all the victims of kidnappings in the DR Congo and in the world.

Dear Brothers, we invite you to hope and to remain confident.  Our God will not abandon us.  Let us be men of faith ready to witness to the truth of the Kingdom of God.

Very Rev. Benoît GRIÈRE, A.A. Superior General

Very Rev. Protais KABILA, A.A.  Provincial of Africa