“The building was so new, you could smell the fresh paint!”

These words of excitement were shared by a participant on a People to People Pilgrimage to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The group was privileged to be present at the dedication of the maternity wing of Bolenge Hospital, a place of healing and care built in 1928 by the Community of Disciples of Christ in the Congo (CDCC), a partner church with Global Ministries for over 100 years. Bolenge Hospital treats over 16,000 patients annually; many for HIV/AIDS related illnesses. The hospital also provides early childhood and prenatal care.

In 2006, the Bolenge Hospital experienced an electrical fire, which destroyed the main building and equipment. Three years later, a pediatric ward was completed and outfitted with beds and medical equipment. In August 2012, the maternity wing was completed and the surgery wing started. With dedication and faith, the people in Bolenge serve God and care for their neighbors. As the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we are privileged to journey with them and call them partners and friends.

The Easter Offering of the Disciples Mission Fund (DMF) supports the general ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) – the Church in the world! Your financial gifts help sustain the missional outreach of ministries like Bolenge Hospital that faithfully serve individuals and communities around the world. Your gifts make a difference, so please generously support this year’s Easter Offering as we seek to walk with others in God’s abundance.