It's hard to imagine, but true

It is hard to imagine how daily life goes on amid the conflict and disease in East Congo. Despite the intense fighting in Minembwe and the current Ebola outbreak near Bukavu, New Hope Reconciliation Center stays on mission, serving all tribes in the spirit of reconciliation.

Over the last few weeks, intense conflicts have been reported in several villages near Minembwe Centre. The continuous artillery fire, heavy shelling, and drone bombing have plunged the population into extreme fear and distress. Many lives have been lost, properties damaged, and livestock killed.

The headlines here are peppered with Ebola warnings near the capital; the DRC border is closed, preventing crossings.  People are fearful of their human circumstances but continue to trust in God's faithfulness to his promises.

Amazingly, business continues in Minembwe and Bukavu.  New Hope Academy students still work on construction sites learning building skills. Plumbing students train on a water project.

Further south, where life is disrupted daily by bombings, a 3-day agribusiness/entrepreneurship/community reconciliation workshop welcomed 30 participants. The group collectively established five vegetable nurseries for tomatoes, cabbage, onions, amaranth grain, and eggplant. The hands-on approach fostered strong ownership, laying the foundation for sustainable income and community resilience.

It is hard to imagine, but it is true! God is protecting this good work despite extreme challenges.

Please pray for our Congolese brothers and sisters – as we give thanks for their incredible courage, their unfailing resilience, and their steady faith during these difficult times.

And remember to make plans to join us for Spirit of Congo, October 17, 2026 – the annual celebration of God’s work in the East Congo and an opportunity to raise funds for the work to continue. New this year – Spirit of Congo is at a new location at the Hilton Garden Inn in Issaquah and will feature a delicious sit-down plated dinner.