Helping the Hurting in Bunia, Democratic Republic of Congo
“God is in control. God is working when we cannot see.”
– The Rev. Bisoke Balikenga
Bunia, DRC
This article is adapted from a version first published in the Jubilate Deo, the newspaper for the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina, in the Summer 2021 edition. Thanks to Julia Marshall and Joy Hunter for sharing.
The three ladies (seated) had been abused and are now living in the Peace Center. “Please pray for these women,” says Bisoke. “There is much suffering.”
Ministry is not, typically, something we can do alone. We need relationships with partners who will come alongside us, support us, and encourage us. Jesus knew this and, “Calling the twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits.” (Mark 6:7)
In Bunia, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), The Rev. Bisoke Balikenga and his wife, Furaha, have gone out “two by two,” supporting and working alongside one another. They are partners in marriage, in faith, and in their service to their community, a community that has seen plenty of violence due to civil war and ongoing conflicts.
However, beyond the support and camaraderie two working together can draw from one another, they need support from the Church — from those of us who (although we are unable to walk beside them on the mission field) can support them from afar, through our financial contributions and prayers. Holy Trinity Windermere, in Charleston, SC, along with ARDF, has made a commitment to come alongside Bisoke and Furaha. Holy Trinity is not a large church, but they hosted Bisoke when he attended the Anglican Leadership Institute, a course organized by the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina. That relationship has expanded their hearts for mission.
The Ministry
The town of Bunia now hosts three camps for displaced people who have fled their villages and their land to escape civil war, human atrocities, starvation, and devastation. These camps are currently home to more than 44,000 families, many who have experienced deep trauma.
Bisoke and Furaha have developed two organizations to help: the Bunia Children’s Hope Center (BCHC), founded in 2004, which educates orphans and places them in foster care; and The Peace Center, which provides ecumenical church services, counseling, reconciliation seminars, education, housing for the most vulnerable and food.
The Opportunity
Holy Trinity Windemere wanted to help, but they knew they needed a process. Last January, Holy Trinity formed a committee to discern God’s call in this partnership. They actively listened as the Holy Spirit urged them to do more. They started by sharing the story of Bisoke and Furaha and their people through updates and prayer requests. However, with Bisoke and Furaha’s input they soon identified two physical needs, for which they are now fundraising. ARDF is coming alongside for the first need, that of building a well for BCHC.
The Need
Currently, the school buys barrels of water at a cost of $100 each, to ensure safe water on the school grounds for drinking and washing hands.
One water tank lasts three to seven days.
Two wells are needed at the school, but Holy Trinity’s initial goal is to fund one at a cost of $11,500.
New Wineskins has pledged $1,000 for this effort and ARDF will will match up the funds that Holy Trinity raises, up to $7,000.
Even if you are not part of Holy Trinity Windemere, you are invited to join this effort.
We ask you to prayerfully consider joining us in supporting Bisoke and Furaha, and the people of the Congo. We are thankful that, by God’s grace, the Lord has brought us alongside them, to help and support them in accomplishing the plan and provision that He is working out in their ministry, and in their lives.
Read More Blogs By ARDF
Latest Blog Updates