Embrace, Encourage, and Empower

Changing Women’s Lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

A full and vibrant expression of the Orthodox Christian Faith is one that offers all people a welcoming embrace, steadfast encouragement, and meaningful empowerment. The Church, wherever she finds herself, strives to make the physical and spiritual lives of others better through outreach, opportunity, community, and the sacraments.  

For centuries, missionaries, priests, and bishops have ventured to new lands to help improve the lives of others and offer salvation in Jesus Christ. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), this fundamental task of the Church is being led by five hierarchs working to make a difference in the lives of their flocks and others.  

Across the country, the Church in the DRC is carrying out vital ministries. In the capital, Kinshasa, the only accredited Orthodox Theological School in Africa prepares future clergy. Children throughout the country are receiving a good education at Orthodox schools. 

In the spirit of 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “...encourage one another and build one another up,” His Eminence Metropolitan Chariton of Kananga is also working to help Congolese women in the DRC by creating community, providing opportunity, and offering support.  

Through generous contributions from Orthodox faithful like you, a Mission Center grant of $27,000 has enabled the Metropolis of Kananga to establish the Cutting and Sewing Training Project – a six-month intensive training program for women in the region. 

The funds from this grant have been used to purchase sewing machines and supplies for 31 recent graduates of the program following months of intensive training. The program will be expanded to 50 women in its next phase.  

His Eminence noted that the women have near perfect attendance (some even bring their children to class!), and in a recent report from the Metropolis, it was shared that, “The financial support of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center has truly relieved the pressing need of unemployed young people.  Women heads-of-household in the city of Kananga and its surroundings have seen their professional capacity increased after six months of practice.” 

Thanks to your ongoing prayers and support, the Church in the DRC will continue to grow and empower women in its diocese through her ministries.