Blog from Wendy Bernhard,

IM missionary to the Democratic Republic of the Congo

10/13/09 – morning, EST

A prayer request for the Congo in general, and Bas Congo in particular; I don't know if the international press has picked it up:  There have been some diplomatic tit-for-tats between Angola, especially Cabinda, and the Congo, with expulsion of people whose documents weren't in order.  Well, this past week, it's reached crisis proportions in Bas Congo, with Angolans given 48 hours to leave the country voluntarily (from Monday to Wednesday), or be forcibly kicked out.  My house worker, Mama Nsenga, widow of a pastor, decided to leave with her family, as did thousands of other people.  Now, we're hearing that Angolans who didn't leave are becoming victims of violence.  Please pray!
 
Blessings,
Wendy

10/13/09 – afternoon, EST

 

Here's an update on the deplorable situation between Congo and Angola, here in Bas Congo:  Thousands of people are gathered on both sides of the border (Congolese expelled from Angola, Angolans expelled from Congo), and now the border has been closed so nobody can go anywhere!  There are reports that more than 20 children have died from lack of water.  Some food available, at 5 times the normal price, no sanitation.  The UNHCR is there, but the situation is critical. 
 
IM Missionary, Wendy Bernhard, and our Congolese Christian brothers and sisters are assessing the situation and will provide updates and opportunities to respond.