Animism and It's Adverse Affect in Congo

Picked up a book entitled "Free Indeed from Sorcery Bondage" written by long time missionary (42 yrs) Dr. Marvin S. Wolford.

Dr. Wolford addresses the issue of animism in Congo. Having returned to Congo in 2007 after a 43 year absence and returning as an adult I was reminded of Ephesians 6:12 where it tells us that our fight is not with humanity but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world. The powers of darkness and the evil spirits.

At one time North Africa was the center of Christianity. However, Satan has had a stronghold on all of Africa for several centuries. Despite the presence of the gospel and the growth of the Church over the last 100 years the African culture still affirms animism and sorcery. Animism continues to "severly limit and cripple african society through abuse, fear and deceit". (Wolford)

It is Dr. Wolford's opinion that sorcery is on the increase across Africa. Those interested in coming alongside the Congolese church need to be cognizant of this fact and be prepared to deal with it in some form or fashion.

I would strongly encourage the reading of this book.

Technical Trade School at Tshikapa

Just received word today that Dr. Komuesa is prepared to start the first technical trade school at Tshikapa. He has secured a license and location for the school. Anticipated start date is September of this year 2009. The initial focus will be with carpentry and masonry. He is planning on 15 students for each section.

We are in the process of gaining more specific information as we move forward with this effort. The long term goal is to establish a minimum of five such schools located through out the AIMM ministry regions.

The Graber initiative has committed to raising funds to equip the schools with the necessary tools and equipment.

Brad Graber

Brick Presses

When we were in Tshikapa, Congo in September 2008 we met with the gentlemen on the far left in red, Pastor Komuesa. Together with our help, he secured these three brick presses that will help to continue construction there. They will also serve to create jobs for men who can make and sell these bricks.

These brick molds are helping Kalonda Bible Institute to become more self-sufficient. Current students are contributing a day a week to make clay bricks by hand using these molds. The bricks will be sold to the Mennonite Church of Congo for use in its Welcome Center construction project.

To purchase and transport these presses to the site where they will be used was about $900. I believe they were probably purchased in the capital city, Kinshasa, and shipped to Tshikapa, probably by boat.

Brick presses are not flashy, nor exciting, nor meaningful. But they are creating jobs, which is exciting. They are building spaces where relationships can be built, which is meaningful. They are a small part in a big work. This is what Hope for Congo looks like.

Atheist believes Christianity is good for Africa.

An interesting article from the The Times has been sparking some discussion online.

Ebola in Western Kasai region of DR Congo

The BBC reports a new Ebola outbreak in the Western Kasai. This is the area we visited in September. Please take a moment to pray for the Congolese. It is God's grace that sustains life.

More News on Congo

Please take a moment as you read this to pray for the Congolese. We recieved news that the wife of a leader in the Congo church died this past week. There are few details, but please pray for him as he grieves.

If you take the time to read through any of these articles, please use that time as an opportunity to commit those matters to God. God is bigger than Africa, and he goes deeper than the issues do.

from The Economist
Lessons from Africa: Laughter and Music
The Future of Aid: A Scramble in Africa
Africa's Economy: Trying to Weather the Storm
Congo: Don't Let it Happen All Over Again

from Fox News
U.N. Calls for Congo Cease-Fire to Help 100,000 Refugees Receive Assistance

Pray for Goma, Congo

Reuters: Congo's Goma calm but nervous after ceasefire
Houston Chronicle: Congo rebel general says he wants talks
Belfast Telegraph: UN ‘stretched’ as Congo rebels march on Goma

Update
Yahoo: Congolese rebels open 'humanitarian corridors'