Mama Julia’s Blog
On his first visit in 2019 Bisoke made a special connection with Julia Marshall and they continue to communicate regularly. Bisoke lovingly refers to her as “Maman Julia,” French for “Mama Julia.” Her regular updates to our donors and prayer warriors have become known as “Mama Julia’s Blog.” Thank you for your prayers for Bisoke, his wife Furaha, their teams and the many suffering in Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
A regular flow of pictures often convey more than words can say.
April 30, 2024 Update
Isaiah 40:29-31 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.
Pray for Bisoke who is weary and still recovering from his recent heart issues. Missionary friends Peter and Pat who once served with him in Bunia, invited him to rest and recuperate in London for three weeks. We thank God for this marvelous gift for renewal and strengthening in the presence of dear friends.
HOUSE OF PRAYER NEWS
Psalm 127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Through generous gifts we have now received $13,500 toward our goal of $16,000 to build a House of Prayer at the Peace Center. Anglican Relief Development Fund (ARDF) will match our gift. Praise God for his great love and provision for the work of the Peace Center.
Foundation began in December 2022 when funds were available. The new building will have space for 400 for worship services, seminars, educational opportunities as well as office space. Most importantly the building will be open 24/7 for prayer and counseling.
April was a busy time at the Peace Center
An empowerment seminar was held for 212 women. Some came from Rwakalisa across the river Shari. Others walked from Chabusiku, distances of 5-10km.
A meal is always served to these weary hungry souls.
Women were given seeds for their gardens.
Healing from trauma counseling was included in the program, with prayers held under the trees.
Money received has enabled the purchase of supplies for practical skills.
Sewing machines have been repaired as well as materials procured.
They enjoyed a meal together and fellowship, so thankful to feel recognized, included and loved.
The street children from Bunia and many orphans from the Rwampara displaced camp were invited for a meal and outdoor fellowship under the rented tents.
This is Maman Asnata, a regular volunteer in the kitchen building at the Peace Center. Bisoke tells me she is sick in the hospital in Bunia and in need of prayer.
While Bisoke is away he is confident in the leadership that is in place. Isingoma Prospere on the left is one of Bisoke’s key leadership partners.
Isaiah 40: 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.
~ God is in control.
God is working when we cannot see.
God will find a way. ~
Bisoke
April 3, 2024 Update
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than we all ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Anglican Relief Development Fund (ARDF) has offered us an opportunity far greater than we could ask or imagine. They have offered to match our $16,000 in order to build a
24-hour House of Prayer at the Peace Center.
Bisoke has had a vision for this project since 2022. The need for prayer, healing from trauma, reconciliation and peace is crucial for the survival, well-being and hope for the many suffering in and around Bunia. Around the clock availability for prayer and counseling will be the primary focus of the building. Built as a permanent structure, as opposed to the local stick-built methods, this facility will also accommodate 400 people for worship services, seminars, educational opportunities as well as office space.
Current meeting space.
The foundation work was begun several years ago when funds were available.
Please join us in prayer that our goal to raise $16,000 would be met by June 30, the end of ARDF’s fiscal year. Your donations, large or small will bring this vision into reality.
OTHER BIG NEWS! We have received approval for our nonprofit status for Hearts for the Congo, Inc.
The board will be transitioning from donations through Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Charleston, SC, to HFTC Inc. We will keep you posted as our new processes are developed.
Palm Sunday at the Peace Center included hundreds of children.
Easter lunch provided by HFTC funds is prepared in the kitchen building over a fire,
Meanwhile at the Bunia Children Hope Center, Baraka Academy
Primary students awaited their turn.
Preschool students have also been busy.
Congratulations wereoffered with much love on a job well done!
Lotsove Mugenyi Prisca is the BCHC accountant.
Looking at these pictures it is hard to fathom the unrest, instability and dangers all around. Here we see the innocence and hope of the children and the love and care of God’s people for His children.
Bisoke’s trip to Kenya to share what God is doing in the missionary work of the DRC, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan and Uganda was attended by about 30 representatives. This was an encouraging, inspiring and restful time with opportunities to make valuable connections.
Easter Sunday Bisoke presided over communion at the Peace Center.
and served from the huge pots.
An extra $500 from Church of the Cross Bluffton provided for the addition of meat.
Eager hands reached for the after lunch “biscuits”.
Since medical care in Bunia is minimal, Bisoke took advantage of the expert care offered in Kenya to have an evaluation for his asthma. Fortunately, he learned that his lungs are strong but also discovered that he had an enlarged heart with some rhythm issues for which he now has medicine. Pray for his continued improvement with the medicine and opportunities to obtain the medicine. We already knew Bisoke had a big heart and now we must pray for his healing and renewed strength.
Second term tests were taken before Easter. Pictured here are standard 6 students.
Maman Furaha addressed the students at the ceremonies as second term grades were presented.
Hebrews 4:15 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Lord Jesus, have mercy and draw near with your grace.
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able o stand against the schemes of the devil.
Lord Jesus, protect and provide for your children.
Matthew 28:6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come see the place where he lay.
Hallelujah, Christ is risen.
”God is in control. God is working when we cannot see. God will find a way.” ~Bisoke ~
March 11, 2024 Update
John 16:33 “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Agricultural Lendu and pastoralist Hema ethnic groups have been in conflict in the DRC since 1972. From 1999-2003 intense violence erupted with increased ethnic consciousness and formation of armed groups. Underlying factors still unresolved today include land disputes and natural resource control. 2017 ushered in a resurgence of violence that still plagues northeastern congo today with over 100 militia groups.
At the end of February, a group of fifteen displaced persons from an IDP camp north of Bunia went on foot to their village to find food. They were reportedly buried alive.
After the bodies were recovered, a funeral was held on March 2 with all businesses in Bunia closed. Further traumatized by this most recent act, people now fear retaliation by rival militias. Some of the victims were known by Bisoke through his training classes. CODECO, a group associated with the Lendu tribe, claimed responsibility.
Short story about Kasoki Gloria
“Our Daughter Kasoki Gloria lived in Kainama with her grandfather, an Anglican minister. When the ADF/NALU rebels attacked Kainama, the girl and her grandfather fled to Boga in the displaced persons site. Three weeks after their arrival in Boga, the site where they took refuge was also attacked. It was on this occasion that the grandfather was killed and the girl’s arm was cut off. Her wound was treated in Bunia where she now lives with her aunt without any means and does not study.”
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are a light to the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
What can be done in the face of the unrest, violence, trauma and instability the Congolese face each day? The work at the Peace Center has been established as a light on a hill and many are drawn to this light. The 7,000 people, mostly widows and orphans, living in the nearby Rwampara displaced camp find peace, love and hope in the oasis of the Peace Center.
Sewing classes offer an opportunity for women to learn a valuable skill for earning money.
The work of Bisoke and the PC expands outward as training in peace building and trauma healing is offered to the leaders of the three displaced camps in Bunia. His teams also bring the Gospel into these IDP camps and outlying villages.
October 2023 the Bunia street children were fed and given clothing, viewed the Jesus Film, and were offered prayer and counseling.
March 10-17 a group of about 25 Anglican priests were invited to Kenya from Rwanda, the DRC, Uganda and Kenya to share what God is doing in their work of ministry. Bisoke was one of two invited from the DRC. While in Nairobi Bisoke was able to get much needed medical care for his asthma.
We have a great opportunity to help!
An agape meal shared at the Peace Center is enabled by HFTC donations of $500 for food one Sunday a month.
Bisoke is often called upon in his position as Provincial Youth Coordinator of the Anglican Church in the DRC to travel to train youth in leadership, as well as offer his peace building and trauma healing skills. Sharing the work of the PC as an example to other insecure regions helps offer hope and a means to begin other regional support facilities.
In 2022 Bisoke envisioned a 24-hour house of prayer at the Peace Center.
This permanent structure would replace the current multipurpose gathering space made in the local stick built method with dirt floors.
Anglican Relief Development Fund has offered to match our gift of $16,000! This organization has also helped us fund three wells in and around Bunia. What a generous offering to have ARDF come alongside God’s work in Bunia. Our deadline is June 30, 2024, the end of the ARDF fiscal year.
Hebrews 13:5-6 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”
”God is in control. God is working when we cannot see. God will find a way.” ~Bisoke ~
Parents are so happy to have their children fed.
The displaced are thrilled to have opportunities to learn to read and write.
Women at the Peace Center are sharing lessons of economic empowerment.
The hall will accommodate 400 people for church services and larger groups for conferences, seminars and educational opportunities. Bisoke says the most important work will be the availability for 24-hour prayer, counseling and trauma healing. Over the last two years the cost has risen by 30% to $32,000.
February 24, 2024 Update
Matthew 5: 3-12 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God . . . Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Grandmother and grandson, having had no food for 2 days, came to the Peace Center for help.
Could we rejoice and be glad if we lived in the midst of the suffering in the Congo? Our brothers and sisters rise in the morning thankful for another day, and recline at night thanking God that they have survived the day. They are traumatized by war and displacement, they mourn the many who die daily, they are hungry and thirsty, yet they are meek, seek mercy and yearn for peace. Yes, rejoice and be glad.
Four months ago Pastor Manase and his wife buried their daughter who died giving birth to her 6th child. She left behind her husband and 6 children. This week they buried her 4 month old infant. Many mothers and infants die in childbirth.
Bisoke reports more fighting to the south in Goma with M23 militia gaining strength. The UN sends its peacekeeping forces, not to fight, but to observe and protect the corridor for fleeing villagers. To the north, 55 km away, violence of CODECO is beginning again.
Yet they celebrate:
Bisoke’s family came together to remember his mother Mary. Bisoke’s sister is third from the right in the back and his brother is second from the left in the front.
More street children have been identified hiding in villages away from Bunia. The Peace Center plans to gather the many street children soon to offer food, shoes, clothes and spiritual counseling.
The monthly agape meal is served at the Peace Center with funds from Hearts for the Congo. Approximately 400 adults and 350 children are fed outside the kitchen building.
100+ year old Akiki was celebrated in church recently. After years of missing church she is renewing her faith and presence in worship.
Ten adults from the Peace Center attended a week-long ecumenical seminar in Bunia to learn strategies for teaching Sunday School. They hope to reach more children with classes in the Peace Center and by going into the displaced camps.
Seven km south of the Peace Center in Chabusiku so much has been accomplished. First the gospel was brought there by the Peace Center’s Emmanuel the evangelist. As the church grew, a well was built, land was bought for cultivation by the widows, and a 2 room house was built for instruction in reading and math and practical skills. The church is growing and they now have their own evangelist. God is working!
Hebrews 12:2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Let us not grow weary in offering our prayers and support. Thank you for your presence with us as we make this journey of faith alongside our friends in the Congo.
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see. God will find a way.” ~ Bisoke ~
January 31, 2024 Update
Matthew 6:8-13 For your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
Yes, our Father knows what we need before we ask him. With this in mind, Bisoke and his team present their ideas, then pray, watch and wait to see what God wants to accomplish. Bisoke has sent an optimistic plan of activities and outreach for 2024 at the Peace Center. Building a 24 hour house of prayer, funding more village wells, buying Swahili Bibles, obtaining supplies for reading, writing and practical skills, and purchasing $6 garden hoes for cultivation are among the twenty on the list. From big to small projects and with high to modest price tags, the requests run the gamut. As we await the approval of our newly formed heartsforthecongo.org nonprofit, the board is beginning to prayerfully look at these requests and with Bisoke, hope expectantly for God’s provision.
In addition to his supervision of the Peace Center, Bisoke is the Provincial Youth Coordinator for the Anglican Church in the DRC. January 18-23 he traveled south to Beni and Butembo to work with youth leaders and equip and encourage the local priests, youth leaders and Bishops.
While there, five people were killed in the airport. This area is very close to neighboring Rwanda and fighting is frequent between M23 rebels and Congolese. A few days after Bisoke left, the UN peacekeeping mission deployed troops to secure a corridor for the 1000 people fleeing their villages in this region. The people and ministry leaders are traumatized by the constant uncertainty and unrest.
Bisoke is seen here with the Bishop of Beni and their youth leader. Bisoke hopes this Bishop can attend the 2025 New Wineskins Global Mission Conference.
These youth leaders, Sunday school teachers and women’s leaders would like to receive training in trauma healing and counseling. The need is great.
In Beni, Bisoke learns that Grace, for whom this wheelchair was procured, is a great prayer warrior. She is so thankful for her new transportation and prays for those who have supported her. As she cares for her aged mother she also has a small business from their home to sell peanuts and other vegetables she can grow.
This woman is a priest in Butembo who hopes to do further theological study. She works with the women in Butembo, counseling them and teaching practical skills.
At Bunia and the Peace Center
Bisoke writes: “A woman of more than 100 years old still alive and she still love the church and I went yesterday to serve with holy communion. She is well and I will take her to church Sunday. Many years she has not attend the church but this coming Sunday she will be in church. I will take her to Peace Center.“
$900 was sent to enable completion of the Chabusiku village meeting house. The doors and windows are being delivered. Soon the benches can also be brought in so classes for reading, writing and practical skills can begin.
Prayers at the Peace Center for new babies.
At the BCHC
Furaha continues to make Baraka Academy school upgrades as funds are available. $1000 was sent after Christmas donations became available. Another $13,700 remains to complete the upgrades to the buildings. These refurbishments will attract paying students to help support the non paying orphans who constitute over half of the enrollment.
Here the newest students proudly receive uniforms.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see. God will find a way.” ~ Bisoke~
January 10, 2024 Update
Isaiah 43:19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
2024, an opportunity for a new start, a new vision, a new opportunity for God to display his mighty work in the wilderness, and to supply streams of refreshment and renewal in the wastelands. What is He doing?
At the Peace Center
Staff at the PC are recovering from typhoid fever with malaise and lingering headaches. Despite this and many challenges the work continues. Pray for their complete recovery
and protection from other illnesses.
On Christmas day an agape meal was served including meat.
With extra funds from the HFTC food ministry a cow was purchased. Extra protein nourishment is a welcomed boost for the hungry and malnourished.
Beans, rice and cassava, which constitute the main part of the meal, can be found in the local market. Most food now comes from Uganda which is becoming increasingly expensive due to transport issues.
On New Year’s Eve 15 were baptized in a small stream that calls to mind the banks of the Jordan River in Israel.
Angelic faces praise God.
New Year’s eve the Jesus Film was shown in Chabusiku.
The people of this village needed a place to gather for meetings and church services and the women have been asking for a place where they could learn to read and write.
All Saints Chevy Chase, Maryland has funded the cost for most of this project. To complete the project, two doors, four windows and the cost of labor for completing the walls are needed. The two room building is located near the well, caretaker building and garden plots for the widows. The caretaker of the well wants to teach reading and writing and the tribal chief’s wife will give instruction in embroidery. This stick and mud building will be built in the local way.
On Epiphany children from Rwampara IDP and Bunia street children were invited to the Peace Center. About 150 street children walked 3 hours to get to the PC. Some were rewarded when they recognized relatives, a wonderful gift for them. Altogether about 800 children crowded into the main meeting space and were amazingly quiet and spellbound as they watched the Jesus Film; many of the children had never heard of Jesus.
Bisoke has dreams of building a house of prayer on the Peace Center compound. Such a multi use building could hold this many children without them being crowded together. The previous estimate was $22,000 but it is likely more now. Some of the foundation work has been started.
After the movie the large group was fed. This was quite a lot of work logistically but the children were so happy to have a good meal and were grateful for the attention. The newly erected kitchen building can be seen here and is so useful for preparing
for the frequent large groups they serve.
The Tutu well is nearing completion with water tanks and faucets in place and is fully functional. Bisoke hopes to gather the people this week for a thanksgiving service and blessing of the well.
Today, January 10, the newly reelected president of the DRC, Feliz Tshisekedi, will be certified. Bisoke is pleased with this result. Perhaps President Tshisekedi can work to bring peace.
Already in the New Year people in a displaced camp in Mambasa, 60 km to the west, were killed by CODECO, one of the many warring militia groups. Villagers in the area are suffering. For now, there is peace in and around Bunia. Pray for peace.
On January 11, displaced women will gather at the PC for discussions on empowerment. In the African culture women don’t work but stay home to raise children.
Most cannot read or write, are widowed and have no skills outside the home or plans for their future.
On January 7 another agape meal was served.
Your once a month donation of $25 enables us to send $500 for the monthly meal at the PC.
Bunia Children Hope Center
Eight of the twenty-four classrooms at Baraka Academy have now been refurbished. This big task was completed over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday with donations from St. Paul’s Summerville, Church of the Cross Bluffton and your donations and prayers.
Cement floors
Cement steps and paving between the classrooms
Drainage ditches
Base walls reinforced with rocks and cement
Ceilings
Another $14,700 is needed to complete all classrooms. This work is needed to attract paying students to offset the cost of running the school. Over half of the students are orphans. Pray for Furaha, her work, her health and the many orphans and students she cares for.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
We pray these words of Isaiah over Furaha, Bisoke and their teams as they work in the fields for the harvest to serve others and glorify God. Let us not grow weary in our prayers of support and encouragement.
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see.
God will find a way.” ~ Bisoke ~
December 22, 2023 Update
Isaiah 6:8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here I am. Send me!”
Peace Center
Bisoke is back at the helm with his duties at the Peace Center. After receiving his final dose of typhoid medicine on Saturday, December 16, he was preaching the next day. Although not completely well, he answers God’s call on his life and presses on in the Lord’s strength.
Students graduated from their year-long studies of reading and writing
Few can afford sewing machines and materials but those who are able can make a living with these skills. Bisoke and his team hope to build a room so that the PC machines could be made available for others to use.
Tables for the machines are a new addition.
People of Chabusiku are asking for instruction in reading and writing and practical skills such as those offered at the PC. Funds received from All Saints Chevy Chase, MD can be used for this purpose. A simple stick built house as well as benches for seating will provide a place forinstruction, counseling and meetings.
This will be near the well. A site has been selected.
The “Jesus Film” was shown Thursday in Chabusiku and also on the other side of Bunia. This has proved to be a useful tool for sharing the gospel. Plans are for other showings Christmas Eve at the PC and at other times and places during this season. The street children are looking forward to “Noelie” being shared with them and an agape meal will be offered at the PC on Christmas Day with added funds enabling the purchase of a cow for meat.
Bunia Children Hope Center
At BCHC Baraka Academy, four classrooms have new concrete floors. All work is done by hand, beginning with leveling dirt floors and bringing in a layer of large rocks.
Next cement is mixed and hauled in.
You can see the new rafters in place in the ceiling. Furaha’s goal is to have 10 of the 24 classrooms cemented before the children return from Christmas break on January 8. Of the $20,000 needed for campus repairs, $7,200 has been sent.
Please check out our newly published website, still a work in progress:
https://heartsforthecongo.org/
We continue to marvel at God’s abundant provision as our relationship with our friends in the Congo has developed over the last four years. What a privilege to be witnesses and participants as God continues to work out his purposes for his beloved children in and around Bunia. Again, thank you for your prayers and support and for walking with us on this journey of faith.
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see.
God will find a way.” ~Bisoke~
November 19, 2023 Update
December 20 is election day in the DRC. President Felix Tshisekedi is up for a second five year term. There are 5,000 candidates who wish to serve in the 500 seat parliament. The Ituri Province of which Bunia is the capital elects 5 parliament members. Bisoke says election time becomes intense and can foster unrest. Pray for a smooth election of wise leaders.
Peace Center
With December coming there are many plans underway but the primary wish from all is for Peace and no more war. Here are some of the activities proposed for December:
● Graduation for 135-140 students who have completed their one year training in reading and writing, basket making, embroidery or sewing. A meal celebration is hoped for.
● The Peace Center Choir would like to go to the displaced camps and minister with music.They also show the Jesus Film and offer prayers and counseling.
● Training in Beni and Butembo to find ways to reach young people, the “dot.com” kids,encouraging them to go to church, respect, spend time with and learn from older women.
● Training for youth leaders how to care for and reach young people inside the IDP camps.
● Christmas celebration at the Peace Center usually involves all night prayer on ChristmasEve and an agape meal with meat on Christmas day.
Bunia Children Hope Center
At the Bunia Children Hope Center a Christmas celebration is also held with small gifts of shirts and snacks. Funds continue to be sent for improvements to the facilities.
Would You consider a Christmas gift to help fund some of these activities?
Agape Meal at the Peace Center
Flooding and Lack of Supplies
There has been much rain in the region of Bunia. Flooding has caused destruction of roads and bridges. The normally dangerous roads due to fighting militias are impassable so movement of goods has to be across Lake Albert from Uganda. The price of 25 kg of rice has increased from $22 to $35. Sand and gravel have increased by 50% and these are needed to complete the well platform in Tutu so installation can be completed. Much of the available cement was ruined with the heavy rains. At least the village has free flowing water.
Unrest
Unrest in Boga has made it unsafe for the Bible students sent from the Peace Center.
Pray for safety for Isaac and Patrick and for peace to return.
“You come to us. Others chase us away.”
On November 12 Bisoke and his team used money budgeted for the street Cchildren to bring them bread.
They were so happy to receive the bread and so thankful to be remembered. The children range from 5 to 15 years. Out of the group of 300 or more, Bisoke has only seen 5 young girls. With encouragement and counseling they are all being urged to be reconciled to their families where possible.
“GOD IS IN CONTROL. GOD IS WORKING WHEN WE CANNOT SEE. GOD WILL FIND A WAY.” ~ BISOKE~
November 3, 2023 Update
THE PEOPLE OF TUTU NOW HAVE WATER
Proverbs 11:25 Whoever brings blessings will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.
From a journalist who covered the story:
“More than 300 street children in the city of Bunia assisted with food and non-food items by the Rwampara peace center of the Anglican Church of Congo/Ituri. Satisfaction from the beneficiaries who thank the Rwampara peace center because the assistance came at the right time when there was a need.”
On Oct. 29 I visited Fr. O’Rourke and his wife Wendy at the Church of the Messiah in Chesapeake, VA. I worshiped with them and personally thanked the congregation for their generous funding of the well!
BUNIA STREET CHILDREN
The street children of Bunia were ministered to on Sunday, Oct. 22.
They gathered in a government building in Bunia. Women cooked all night to feed these hungry children, the Jesus Film was shown and T-shirts were provided.
The children were offered counseling and were prayed over.
They were shown the love of Jesus and that they are not forgotten.
Construction of the tower for the water tanks, installation of pump, generator and water spigots continue but that process does not stop the steady flow of water from the hose or people filling their cans with this precious commodity. This is our 4th well in the Congo.
THE PEACE CENTER
Wedding Celebration
Growing Beans in Chabusiku
Pastor Manasa and Mama Manasa celebrated the blessing of their marriage at the Peace Center on October 29. Despite the death in childbirth of their only daughter six weeks ago, they chose to celebrate their life together. The newborn infant is being cared for at the Catholic center for infants at this time. Pastor Manasa lives in the Rwampara Displaced Camp and is active in ministry with Bisoke at the PC.
Naomi in the Peace Center Office
Bisoke is proud to introduce Naomi to his team. Although not a resident of the displaced camp, she lives nearby and came to the PC for sewing instruction. Recognized for her leadership skills, they have asked her to serve as an administrative assistant to help with finances and records. Gathering a team to train and help with his work is essential for the PC programs to thrive.
The garden land purchased for displaced persons is growing! Seeds and hoes were provided by the Peace Center with funds sent to them. Unfortunately cassava and maize did not germinate but they are thankful for the beans to come.
Bunia Children Hope Center
Repairs to the School
At the BCHC Baraka Academy progress is being made on repairs to the outside of the buildings.
Proper drainage of rainwater is important to protect the foundation of the buildings and keep grounds less muddy during rainy seasons.
Funding for the 501c3 Non-profit HEARTS FOR THE CONGO has been donated! Thank you to our anonymous donor for this generous gift!
“GOD IS IN CONTROL. GOD IS WORKING WHEN WE CANNOT SEE. GOD WILL FIND A WAY.” ~ BISOKE~
John 6:9-10
“There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.”
We have offered our small offering, responding in faith to His call, and sat down to see what God would do. He has multiplied our efforts beyond our wildest expectations, allowing us to witness His great power and love for us and our brothers and sisters in the Congo. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Asante, Asante. AMEN
Grace in Beni
October 8 agape meal at the Peace Center.
Celebrate with us the provision of a new wheelchair for Grace in Beni. Pray for people to be generous in helping her maneuver the wheelchair and for encouragement in her faith.
Thank you to our anonymous donor!
Another death
Heartbreaking ~ Kabibi, Bisoke’s sister, lost her eldest daughter this week while giving birth to her first child. Her name was Furaha which means Joy, and her baby also died, leaving her husband and their families with much grief. Medical care we take for granted is not available in Africa. Please add them to your prayers.
The seminars to train the leaders of the three IDP camps around Bunia were well attended. 68 were expected for the meetings but 131 attended to learn about counseling, healing from trauma and peace building methods.
Leadership Seminars
Pray for these leaders as they take what they have learned back into the crowded displaced camps.
The Peace Center has seven candidates who wish to receive theological training. Five young men are exploring an opportunity to attend a theological school in Malawi. They must first learn English before beginning the three year program in January.
Training Christian Leaders
Two women have been accepted to the Aru Anglican Theological College in the DRC. If they can get funding of $750 per person for the first year, the school will give scholarships for the next two years. These young people, sent by the Peace Center, will hopefully return to work with its ministry depending on the Bishop’s placement. What an accomplishment and credit to the Christian mission of the Peace Center to foster this call to ministry.
Bunia Street Children
Bisoke met with government security officials about bringing the 300+ street children to the Peace Center, 11 km away, to feed them and offer counseling and encouragement with the Gospel. The officials’ recommendation was to keep the children in Bunia, the place they know, and rent the Catholic Church facilities that are in town, a safer and less expensive alternative. Food can be prepared there for the children.
With this plan there would be enough money to not only feed the children but also offer clothing. This project has already been funded.
Water Is a Life Source
Current well in Rwampara used for the IDP camp.
In two weeks time, Rev. Marty O’Rourke’s Church of the Messiah, Chesapeake, VA, has raised money for another well for a village near the Peace Center. Tutu is a village on the way to Chabusiku and another place desperate for water. Bisoke is working with the village chief to make the arrangements. God is at work, connecting us as only He can. Thank you Father Marty and your congregation.
Chabusiku in the evening.
An Orphan Story
Furaha introduced me to one of the orphans who has grown up in the care of BCHC. In 2009, Meleka was the fifth child born to Ruth and Samuel. Ruth died a week after Meleka was born and Samuel died two months later. At the same time, BCHC was recruiting 100 orphans and learned of these orphaned children, four daughters, oldest 13, and one son. They were brought to enter the school and a mother was paid $50/month to feed and care for 6 month old Meleka.
After following up it was discovered that Meleka was being neglected and abused so she was brought to the clinic at BCHC. After a year of healthy formula feeding and love she was released. The oldest daughter committed to caring for her baby sister and the other siblings. Today Meleka is 14 and doing well.
The BCHC has saved and nurtured so many orphans. This is only one story of many. Pray for the orphans and the caring work of Furaha’s team.
We getting closer to the completion of the Hearts for the Congo nonprofit application at a cost of $600. Please consider donating toward this cost as we prefer not to take away funds given for work in the DRC. Continue to pray for the 501c3 process. God has richly blessed our efforts thus far to accomplish His work in the Congo. We believe this nonprofit will enable us to multiply our efforts with this new designation.
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see. God will find a way.”
~Bisoke~
September 11, 2023 Update
Baraka Academy at Bunia Children Hope Center
The new school year began September 4 at Baraka Academy I, Bunia Children Hope Center. For the 2022-23 school year of 1002 students, 36 preschoolers moved up to primary school, 100 graduated from primary to secondary and 64 will celebrate their graduation on September 23.
For the 2022-23 school year of 1002 students, 36 preschoolers moved up to the primary school, 100 graduated from primary to secondary and 64 will celebrate their graduation on September 23.
Furaha does not have a count for this year yet but hopefully this week as routines settle an accurate enrollment can be determined. As reported before, the orphan school is in dire need of improvements to the 24 classrooms. Attracting paying students is key to keeping the school running. So far we have $2000 pledged toward the $22,000 cost if repairs and upgrades. Cement floors, installation of ceilings under the open rafters and upgraded roofs are priorities. As money comes in, upgrades can be made in stages ont eh weekends when school is not in session.
Anglican Leaders Gather
Bisoke has returned from his ten days in Kampala and Arua, Uganda and Aru, DRC. He and seven other church leaders from the DRC were invited by Archbishop Titre Ande Georges to collaborate with Kenyan Kaziimbi.
The Anglican church in Uganda was organized well before the DRC and without the trauma of war, displacement and suffering of the Northeastern Congo they have become strong, well established and supported.The group toured the new cathedral being built in Kampala.
The DRC group learned much about how the Anglican leadership in Uganda works together and were energized both by their respite form daily work activities and their recommitment to move forward to evangelize and share the gospel. Bisoke reconnected with Dr. Rebecca, now serving in Uganda. They met at the 2019 New Wineskins conference in North Carolina.
Now back in Bunia, Bisoke plans to visit the local governor this week and share his plan of bringing the estimated 300 street children for a day at the Peace Center. This safety clearance is necessary so their efforts won’t be mistaken for rebel recruitment of the children. Several local policemen who were in youth discipleship training with Bisoke are anxious for this outreach ministry to serve these young people.
Ministering to the Most Vulnerable
Someday Bisoke would like to be able to pay the volunteers for their ongoing work amidst such challenging circumstances.
Work at the PC continues as the dedicated volunteers minister to those in need of prayer and trauma counseling. Many are coming from far away as they hear about what God is doing at the PC. They want to take part in education classes and training in practical skills. John the evangelist visits many in their “homes” at the displaced camps for prayer and counseling.
Bisoke has identified three other villages that are desperate for wells. One of these is Tutu, a village on the way to Chabusiku from the PC. As the people there saw the construction equipment traveling through to that new well they were also begging for water. Women walk 2 & 1/2 hours one way to get tanks of water that they carry back balanced on their heads for another 2 & 1/2 hours.
Concrete has been left to cure on the new well platform in Chabusiku and should be ready for the tank, pump and generator to be installed this week for completion of the work.
Chabusiku Well
Continue to pray for th 501c3 process for our nonprofit Hearts for the Congo. God has richly blessed our efforts thus far to accomplish His work in the Congo. We believe this nonprofit will enable us to multiply our efforts with this new designation.
John 12:15 “If then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.”
I see over and over the actions of Bisoke, Furaha and their teams, washing the feet of the suffering, sharing one another’s burdens and walking alongside to bring the Gospel of healing, reconciliation and faith. Praise God for the work he is doing, empower these workers with strength, encouragement and hope, and hold your precious children in your everlasting arms.
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see. God will find a way.” ~Bisoke~