Pray with Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday, October 8, 2017

Lectionary Selection: Matthew 21:33-46

Prayers for Democratic Republic of Congo:

Our Father, who art in Heaven,

In this vineyard, we call the Democratic Republic of Congo, you have created a land of plenty. There is rich soil for planting. There are rivers, lakes, and an ocean that provide water – the earthly source of life. There is land containing a wealth of minerals. There is a people who are your faithful servants even in the midst of the harsh realities of their lives. Through your grace, we have received your bounty. Please guide us to embrace these blessings and use them to glorify God. May we, your servants, be the ones who tend the land and produce the fruit as Jesus instructed. (Matthew 21:43)

The people of Congo are your most valuable harvest. May their leaders respect and cultivate that fruit to maturity. Through the education of young Congolese, continue to bless the Congo Protestant University as it harvests the fruit it has produced for your glory.

Amen.

Mission Stewardship Moment from Democratic Republic of Congo:

For almost 60 years, the Congo Protestant University (UPC) has worked to build a nation through education that will position its students as the future leaders of Congo. As we look ahead, we know that the privileged role of educating Congo’s next generation of leaders is accompanied by the obligation to prepare them as socially-responsible citizens who are conscious of the moral, political and economic impact of their decisions on the sustainable development of their country.

Recent graduates of the Medical School are collaborating on HIV research with the University of Missouri. In 2016, the first woman in the Disciples of Christ Community of Congo received a PhD from UPC’s Theology School. “Being on the front line” was one of the most important aspects of the rural hospital training according to a Medical School intern.

For a Christian institution like the Congo Protestant University, the need for external funding is further amplified with private giving driving the engine of quality education at a time when more young Congolese men and women desire an opportunity for change. An independently-funded Christian university gives hope to these young Congolese as they promote Christian values in the exercise of their professions while transforming a nation for tomorrow.

The University appreciates your commitment to education. Your investment will allow this institution to continue to move forward.

(Prayer and Mission Moment by Linda James)

Mission Partners in Democratic Republic of Congo:

More information on Democratic Republic of Congo: http://www.globalministries.org/democratic_republic_of_congo

Global Ministries Mission Coworker in Democratic Republic of Congo:

Linda James serves with the Protestant University in Congo (UPC) as she assists with their capacity building program. Her appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples’ Mission Fund, Our Churches Wider Mission, and your special gifts.