Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. - Psalm 68:5
For the most vulnerable families living in Luhonga, the threat of rebel invasions and armed conflict is a constant reality. Most people have personal stories of how they or their loved ones were impacted by war. Henri*, who is 18, and his family, are no exception. They have lived through the pain and trauma that the ongoing conflict has caused.
In 2011, local Care Workers identified Henri and his family as being among the most vulnerable but right at this time, because of the constant threat of rebel attacks and the trauma of their father being killed by rebels a few years earlier, the family along with many others in the community, sought refuge in various refugee camps over the next two years. Care Workers continued to visit these families in the refugee camps and support them.
In 2013, the attacks became infrequent enough that Henri’s family and others felt safe enough to resettle in Luhonga, allowing the Care Workers and Goma team to resume consistent holistic care. Henri’s mother is now able to work, although the little money she earns from making charcoal isn’t enough to fully provide for her family. Acting with Christ-like love and compassion, the Care Workers help to shoulder her burden. They ensure that Henri and his siblings receive a hot, nutritious meal daily and are loved and cared for. A testament to their impact on Henri’s life can be seen in how he is giving back to his community. At the Care Point, he faithfully washes the hands of the younger children and helps serve their daily meal.
- Luhonga Community, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Today we invite you to pray for the most vulnerable children like Henri, who have lived through so much pain. Pray that they would experience healing and restoration in their lives.