Martin elected as Bishop of Goma

On Wednesday 7th December 2022 the College of Bishops of the Anglican Church of Congo elected Martin as the second Bishop of Goma, to be consecrated on 12th March 2023.

It is not something we came to Goma for, were expecting, or ever thought would happen. But it is something that, under the guidance of Archbishop Ande, has become the clear wish of the Diocese of Goma and the College of Bishops, alongside a growing sense of the call of God for Martin and the family.

Please pray for Martin, the family and the diocese as they prepare for the ordination (liturgy above) and for the celebration that follows. It is a very significant and public event in the life of the diocese and requires a huge amount of work. But the preparation of the event is also occasion to continue to build on the growing unity in the church in Goma.

Christmas Chickens

With your generosity we have been able to give over 100 pastors and diocesan staff something to celebrate with at Christmas. This is particularly welcome this year with the prices of some basic foods having doubled recently. We have also been able to give something extra to our 60 widows and 25 theology students as well as to our parishes who are on the frontline helping some of the 380,000 people displaced by the recent fighting. Those who received the gift wanted us to pass on their gratitude to those who have given. Thank you!
 
If you still want to give please go here.

The war in Eastern Congo

Over the last few weeks the conflict in eastern Congo has intensified, as have the national and regional efforts towards peace. The two first local news items below are in the Diocese of Goma and directly affect our parishes.

Inside DRC's Kanyaruchinya camp where residents displaced by war try to survive. 

Vigil in DRC as government raises death toll from violence

Dr Congo govt, rebels to meet In January- East Africa Bloc

Anthea's work at Give Directly

If you want to have an insight into the approach and work of Give Directly, albeit in another country, click here.

How can you pray?

• For the preparations for March 12th

• For the efforts towards peace in eastern Congo

• For our parishes in Nyiragongo and others working to bring relief to those who have been displaced as a result of the fighting

• For the work of Give Directly

Thank you, as always, for reading, praying, giving and keeping in touch

Martin, Anthea, Silas, Zachary and Imogen