GOMA, Congo (AP) — Islamic State-backed rebels attacked a Catholic church in eastern Congo on Sunday, killing at least 34 people, according to a local civil society leader.

Pope Leo XIV mourned those killed in the violent attack on a Catholic Church in the Congo on Sunday by ISIS-backed rebels. The pontiff expressed sympathy and regret over the murders and wished for peace in the region.

At least 34 people were killed in an attack on church premises in eastern Congo by Islamic State-backed rebels, according to a civil society leader.