Simply put, six-year-old Lina’s* life is a miracle: a testimony of God’s grace and goodness. Since before her birth, life has been chaotic and full of pain. Her mother, who struggles with a serious mental illness, was sexually abused and became pregnant with Lina. At the time of delivery, there were serious complications. The community of Katembe is located in the mountains, several hours from any medical facilities. By God’s grace, Lina’s mother, with support from strangers, managed to get to a clinic where they did an emergency caesarean section. Though Lina survived, her mother did not have the capacity to care for her daughter on her own, resulting in a quick decline in Lina’s health.
Acting out of Christ-like compassion, Lina’s neighbour noticed her condition, and the family began taking responsibility for Lina’s care. It was evident her mother was not coping and was unable to care for her daughter on her own. They would bath and feed her and make sure she was safe when her mother left her alone.
When Hands at Work began caring for the most vulnerable in the community of Katembe, local Care Workers, alongside George Snyman (co-founder of Hands at Work) visited people in their homes and met Lina. They immediately invited her to come to the Care Point, where she would receive a hot, nutritious meal and desperately needed basic health care support. Additionally, she will be starting school for the first time in the coming year. The kindness of strangers means Lina now has hope for her future.
Regularly, the Care Workers visit Lina in her home, wanting to ensure that she is holistically cared for, but also wanting to support her mother in her challenges. They encourage the neighbours to remain faithful in their commitment to caring for Lina.
- Katembe Community, The Democratic Republic of the Congo
Thank God for the way that He has been working in Lina’s life and the miracle that her life is. Thank God for the people committed to supporting her family and walking with them through their challenges. Pray that God will continue to make a way for her family and the families they represent.