In the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the city of Goma is once again engulfed in turmoil as the M23 rebel group advances, causing widespread panic and displacement among its residents. Just last week, Moïse Ombeni and his family attended church, seeking solace in worship. However, their pastor’s urgent call to evacuate highlighted the dire situation unfolding around them. As rebel forces encroached on Goma, the community faced an unprecedented level of fear and uncertainty.
The following day, as Ombeni witnessed the exodus of families fleeing the city, he felt compelled to act. Having retrieved his children from boarding school just days prior, he was now confronted with the sound of heavy artillery echoing through the streets. “We were in a general panic, and we were wondering if we should stay or go,” he shared, his voice heavy with concern. As news broke that M23 had seized control of several districts, the urgency to protect his family intensified.
Locked inside their home, the Ombeni family could hear the terrifying sounds of gunfire and explosions. Tragically, the violence claimed the lives of hundreds, with reports indicating that over 900 bodies have been discovered in the aftermath of the fighting. The UN has warned that this latest conflict is particularly brutal, with direct confrontations between government forces and M23 resulting in significant civilian casualties.
In this desperate time, Ombeni turned to prayer, reciting Psalm 91, a chapter that offers comfort in times of distress. He connected with fellow church members online, sharing prayers and support until their internet connection was cut. “We feel like life no longer has any meaning and that everything has stopped,” he lamented. This sense of despair is not new for Ombeni; he remembers the chaos when M23 last invaded Goma in 2012, a day that forever altered his life.
Despite the overwhelming fear, Ombeni held onto a flicker of hope, recalling how the international community rallied against M23 in the past. However, the stakes are higher now; he has a family to protect. “Even if I’m afraid myself, I have to have the strength to console and support my wife, my children,” he said, revealing the heavy burden he carries.
As the conflict escalates, the humanitarian crisis deepens. Thousands of displaced individuals have flooded into makeshift camps, where resources are scarce. Local Christians, like one unnamed family, have opened their doors, sharing food and water with those seeking refuge. “We celebrate God for provision and safety,” this family wrote, expressing gratitude for their safety amidst the chaos.
However, the realities on the ground are grim. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and medical personnel are emotionally drained from treating the wounded. The need for pastoral care and relief efforts is urgent, as communities grapple with trauma and loss. “Please pray that we’ll be given the opportunity by God to minister to the church and call the church to act in its role in pastoral care, peace-making, and reconciliation,” another local leader urged.
The roots of this conflict run deep, intertwined with the historical tensions stemming from the Rwandan genocide. Goma’s location on the border between the DRC and Rwanda has made it a focal point for violence and displacement for decades. The complexities of ethnic tensions and political power struggles have fueled a cycle of violence that seems unending.
In a recent development, M23 declared a ceasefire, citing humanitarian reasons, which has allowed some semblance of normalcy to return. Trucks filled with goods have begun to re-enter Goma, and aid workers are striving to meet the needs of the wounded and hungry. Yet, for families like the Ombenis, life remains on hold, with schools closed and safety still a distant hope.
“Some Christians have lost faith because the situation is unbearable,” Ombeni reflected. “May the Lord light this flame of prayer and faith in our hearts!” His plea resonates deeply, as the community clings to hope and faith amidst the storm. As we witness the unfolding events in Goma, let us remember the power of prayer and the importance of standing in solidarity with those who are suffering.
For those looking to support relief efforts in the DRC, organizations like World Vision and International Rescue Committee are actively working to provide aid to those affected by the violence. Your contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of families facing unimaginable hardships.