Yesterday in Goma, Bishop Théophile Kaboy officially opened the canonical process for the cause of beatification of Floribert Bwana Chui bin Kositi. He was a young member of the Community of Sant'Egidio who was killed on July 9, 2007, for having resisted an attempt at corruption. Specifically, this happened because of his Christian choice to not allow large quantities of spoiled food, which are harmful to the health of the population, to reach the market of the city. Therefore, the diocese wanted to start an investigation to analyze his figure and his death, which has all the traits of martyrdom.
The bishop emphasized the fact that this process begins on the very day on which the Church celebrates the feast of Saint Cecilia. She was a young Christian from Trastevere who was an example for the first Christian generations. In particular, the bishop thought there is a crucial connection between the figure of Floribert, whose Christian vocation was united to the one of the Community of Sant'Egidio that has its origins in Trastevere, and his young age, which can be an instance of Christian life for the current young people who are attracted by the idolatry of money and success.
At the end of the first session of the process, the bishop and the committees went along with the Community to Floribert's tomb for a moment of prayer. On that occasion, Msgr. Kaboy said that to make known Floribert's figure and life is the task of the entire Christian community of Goma. Thus, his example will be a model for young people and for all Christians.
In the afternoon, a solemn liturgy was celebrated in the cathedral, where the Christian community gathered, and where the bishop explained to the believers the meaning of this canonical process for a son of Goma’s Church and a brother of the Community of Sant'Egidio.
It was a day of great joy that involved all the brothers and sisters who today are particularly grateful to Sant'Egidio for having taken up the legacy and memory of Floribert. They are even thankful to the Community for cultivating everywhere the love for the Gospel and the poor that animated Floribert’s life and testament.
During a pilgrimage to Floribert’s tomb with the Community of Sant’Egidio, Msgr. Kaboy said: “A model for the Christians in Congo”.
