“Who is like you, LORD? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them.”
Since January, more than 7,000 people have been killed in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly around Goma, as the M23 rebel group continues its clashes with government forces. According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the country now has around 7.3 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to ongoing and long-standing conflict.
In the midst of this unrest, Pastor Allan Ngwaba, a trained counselor, is providing daily support and counseling to victims of violence and trauma. Many individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are now seeking help at Rivers Pentecostal Church in Goma, the capital of North Kivu Province.
Pastor Ngwaba explained that his goal is to ensure that victims do not fall into depression, consider suicide, or lose hope. Prayer gatherings for peace and healing are being organized not only at Rivers Church but throughout the Goma region.
Grace Nsimba, who lost her husband and sister during the fighting, is leading one of these gatherings. She said she is praying for peace to return and is interceding especially for those traumatized after witnessing horrific events. In mid-February, an interfaith worship service was also held in Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu Province, to pray for peace in the region.
Archbishop Floribert Bashimbe expressed his hope that the gathering would unite local communities in prayer for reconciliation, an end to violence, and spiritual encouragement. He also called for an immediate halt to the increasing looting and arson targeting homes, schools, government offices, and health centers, which have taken place amid the ongoing instability. (Source: Gospel Prayer Newspaper)
Then my soul will rejoice in the LORD and delight in his salvation. My whole being will exclaim, “Who is like you, LORD? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them.” (Psalms 35:9-10)
God, thank You for raising up prayer meetings for peace and restoration in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a nation suffering from violence and bloodshed due to the conflict between armed groups and government forces. We ask that You bring an end to the schemes of the wicked who stir up conflict and destroy peace out of greed. Let all sin fueled by disorder and chaos be silenced, and may Your comfort and peace fill the land. Shine the light of hope into hearts left desolate, and through the prayers of Your Church, let the enemy who seeks to steal life through fear be put to shame. May all people rejoice in the Lord and sing with joy of His salvation.
Prayer 24·365
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