Christmas for Congo 2007

About a year and a half ago the Raleigh IDR held "Congo Night" at RMC. We sang Congolese songs, ate Congolese food, and listened as Tresor shared about the violence occurring in his country due to the civil wars and political upheaval that has continued there for the past 20 years.

At that time, RMC sent donations to Tresor's friend Nicholas, who with the help of Congolese churches, runs an orphanage and AIDS orphan ministry for many children, in Northern Congo. Nicholas' group provides housing, food and education for the kids, a few of whom are pictured in the photos above.

After Congo night we waited, prayed and hoped that the presidential election that took place in Congo earlier this year would put an end to the bloodshed. It has not.

So, it's time to help Nicholas once again. Let's send the kids around Northern Congo a special Christmas that they won't forget!

Many people at RMC have been asking how they can help support those working for peace in Congo. So, Tresor and the IDR have joined with Nicholas to plan "Christmas for Congo." Financial gifts will be accepted from October through the end of November, at which time they will be wired to Nicholas to help buy Christmas presents for the kids, and to provide for their other daily needs this winter.

Other churches in the Raleigh area have also joined in, and are making donations to the cause. If you'd like to make a donation to help Nicholas' kids, send your checks to Al Reberg, at Raleigh Mennonite Church, and note that they are for "Christmas for Congo." As the holiday season begins to edge it's way toward us. And let's continue to pray for peace in Congo, and to support those there who are rising above the violence to help others.

Happy Early Christmas to all! - Janelle, Tresor, and the IDR -- for Nicholas and the kids.