African priest killed en route to ACC meeting

London

Rev. Basimaki Byabasaija, assistant diocesan secretary and coordinator of the HIV/AIDS network in the diocese of Boga (Congo) was killed by tribesmen as he prepared to travel to Hong Kong to attend an Anglican Consultative Council meeting.

His body was mutilated.

Speaking from Canterbury, Canon James Rosenthal, director of communications for the Anglican Communion expressed his sadness and shock.

?This sad reality of fear and death is part of the ongoing situation that so many in our global family face in their lives daily,? he said. ?While many worry about church politics and issues, many of our Anglicans and Episcopalians face persecution and death just for being Anglican.

?He will be greatly missed in the councils of the ACC and we thank God for his ministry with HIV/AIDS in Africa.?

Mr. Rosenthal said Mr. Byabasaija, his family and his diocese would be remembered in prayers in Canterbury Cathedral.