Page 13 - 2021 Dec / 2022 Jan Newsletter

Page 13 Southern Pennsylvania District

Africa Great Lakes Update

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Goma congregation has met for the past several years in a
small borrowed lean-to. With assistance from Southern PA and Southeastern Districts, they have purchased a small parcel of
land. Just this month they erected a simple pole-barn like structure that gives them more space and weather protection. As
crude as it looks by American standards, they are very excited and extremely grateful for the help we were able to
provide. Their expression for thank you and God bless you is “Asante, Mungu awabariki!”

The congregation in Gisenyi, Rwanda is also in the midst of a building project. Because Gisenyi is the home office, so to
speak, for the COB Rwanda, it’s a lot more ambitious than that in Congo. It is a large brick building that will include an
office and classroom wing. During a recent fundraising worship service, over $6,000 was raised! Much more will be needed
to finish the project, but this will hopefully be enough to get it under roof.

Several months ago, the US Brethren became aware of a
group in Burundi identifying as the “Church of the Brethren
Burundi.” In 2015, Pastor Expert Bukene was introduced to
the Church of the Brethren by the book “A Dunker Guide to
Brethren History.” Out of this has grown a movement now
numbering 26 congregations. During an October visit to
Rwanda, Chris Elliott was able to meet with Pastor Bukene
and begin conversation with him and his fledgling
denomination. Please pray for these brothers and sisters as
they grow in Christ.

From left: Etienne Nsanzimana - Rwanda, Expert Bukene -
Burundi, Ron Lubungo - DR Congo, Chris Elliott - US.

Donations in support of the Africa Great Lakes Church of
the Brethren may be sent to SOPA District Office 3375
Carlisle Rd. Suite A, Gardners, PA 17324, Chris Elliott
will be happy to answer your questions and to share with
your congregation regarding this work. He can be reached
at 717 262 3154 or cwelliott56@gmail.com.