Light in the Dark

While I continue to observe and hear of the unbelievable evil that man is capable of, I also see amazing people demonstrating the love of Christ everyday. Yesterday, I met Father Bhita, with the Brotherhood of Prison fellowship ministries. Dr. Bob and I went to one of the prisons in Goma, where we had heard there was no real medical care. The most intense fighting here in Goma was Oct 29th. Stray bullets injured prisoners and they have yet to receive care, also suffering from tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malaria and variety of infections. Father Bhita has such a sweet spirit about him. He provides food, clothing and love to those who have been forgotten. One young man, Jimi, is a 15 year old child soldier, abducted by one of the rebel groups when he was only 12 years old. He has been in the prison for almost 1 year. His family most likely has no idea that he is still alive since he has been gone for 3 years. He is just a boy. We hope to learn more about him and try to find a way to help him. ( I believe it is illegal to imprison child soldiers) We will be returning to the prison to hold a full day of clinic to provide wound care and medications for those illnesses we can treat, on Thursday. Maybe a partner GAP ministry in the making for my friends at The Bridge?
Dr. Steve and Kris have been conducting assessments in the area north of Goma the past few days. In most of the communities, the clinics are still standing and have adequate staff but all of their supplies have been used or taken during the looting. One clinic reported that in the most recent attack, over 70 women were raped. Rape is the 3rd most common diagnosis in the clinic. Some say that the DRC is the worst place in the world to be a woman. However, the work on behalf of women that is taking place at HEAL Africa is so inspiring. It offers physical healing, spiritual growth, and a means to learn a skill to generate income once the women move back to their villages. I cannot sing their praises enough. God is truly doing amazing work here.
Two days ago, I met a woman, a patient in the clinic where we are working. She would not really make eye contact, was feverish, had intense pain and was informed one month ago that she has AIDS. She had no medications since her diagnosis and no support. HEAL Africa offers assistance to people with HIV/AIDS with medications, home support and spiritual support. We prayed with her then took her to HEAL Africa. Yesterday, our translator, Zico, saw the woman while at HEAL Africa. He said she was talking and smiling! Sometimes, just knowing that someone cares is good medicine.
As always, continue to pray for the people of the DRC, all the workers here facing incredible obstacles, our team, and for Peace. Mungu akubariki!