Ebola Outbreak Challenges Faith, as Bunia Worshippers Defy Widespread Ban

Catholic worshippers gathered for Mass on Sunday at a church in Bunia, the epicenter of a rapidly growing Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, despite a restriction on gatherings of more than 50 people.

Church deacon Venasse Ngabo provided hand sanitizer to Mass goers, who washed their hands at stations set up at the front gate.We require (hand washing) because we have learnt that there is an Ebola outbreak in our city, which has already killed many of our Christian brothers and sisters,” Ngabo stated.

The restriction on big gatherings, including mass and burials, was one measure aimed at containing the outbreak, which had already spread unnoticed for weeks prior to its confirmation on May 15. However, several believers stated that they relied on the church to get through this tough time.

We are aware of the illness and are taking precautions to protect ourselves. However, we cannot disregard God’s presence in our lives. “That is why we have come to pray here,” Jacob Ngasha explained. Roland Safari, wearing a mask, stated that he backed preventive measures.

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