Church in Congo celebrates Christmas in May honouring leader seen as reincarnation of Jesus

Thousands of Kimbanguist faithful gathered in Kinshasa dressed in green and white, taking part in parades with marching bands and carrying religious messages during an unconventional Christmas celebration. For the church, the date commemorates the birth of Solomon Dialungana Kiangani, son of the founder, whom followers regard as the embodiment of Christ and a central figure in their beliefs.

During the event, both officials and worshippers stressed the importance of passing on spiritual and patriotic values to younger generations. The church formally moved its Christmas celebration to 25 May after Kiangani declared himself the returned Christ in 2000, reinforcing the belief that the founder’s sons represent the Holy Trinity.