We are motivated to transform lives and rebuild Congo because of our Christian vision and faith, which claims that God, in Jesus Christ, is redeeming all things. As a result, we are deeply committed to cultivating leaders who will be agents of Christ-centered transformation.
One of the ways we do this is by working directly with Christian faith communities, such as local churches, and their leaders. Our passion is to equip them to be all that they are meant to be in bringing hope and healing to their nation.
Missionary Era
Christianity has existed in Congo at least since the time of missionaries, beginning in the 19th century. Throughout the missionary era, churches, hospitals, and schools were established. The schools provided an elementary education that was largely for the purpose of developing Bible literacy and basic theology.
Colonial Era
In accordance with the colonial policy of “divide and rule,” each individual mission agency or denomination was given permission to work only in areas of the country specifically designated for them. The result was rigid denominational divisions that still dominate Congo’s religious structure today, and these divisions often correspond to ethnic divisions.
Independence Era and Conflict
During the civil unrest and wars that followed independence, the Congolese Church provided refuge and care for many people. However, clergy were completely overwhelmed by the challenges they faced, ill-equipped to properly address the crises.
- How do you pastor refugees and internally-displaced people?
- How do you point suffering people to God in a way that makes a difference in their lives?
- How does theology help us make sense of life in the context of brokenness and despair?
Through our Center for Church Renewal and Global Mission, we equip Congolese Christian communities to play their part in the rebuilding of Congo. Click on the links below to find out more.
