The escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has left religious sisters in Goma fearful for their safety. With the M23 rebel group taking control, the sisters have faced traumatic experiences while supporting vulnerable populations. They emphasize the urgent need for international support to restore healthcare and provide psychological aid in the region. Despite their fears, the sisters remain committed to serving and healing their communities.
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in Goma, has escalated dramatically, leading to fears among local religious sisters for their safety. Following the March 23 Movement (M23) fighters’ takeover of Goma and Bukavu, nearly a dozen sisters in a nearby convent are experiencing heightened anxiety and trauma due to the persistent violence. Many recount harrowing near-death experiences amid intense gunfire while supporting vulnerable populations affected by the conflict.
Despite the overwhelming fear experienced by these sisters, one Ursuline Sister of Tildonk stated, “We were filled with fear and deep trauma.” Hundreds of thousands have been displaced amid this conflict, with reports estimating around 7,000 fatalities, as M23 rebels continue to assert their dominance with support from foreign troops, despite official denials from Rwanda. The M23 has a controversial agenda, claiming to protect certain ethnicities while seeking greater control over mineral-rich regions of the country.
Numerous sisters have recounted the harrowing situations they faced. One anonymously shared, “A bullet passed through the iron sheets and the ceiling,” highlighting their close calls. They remain dedicated to serving the community, even amidst threats. Healthcare providers, including sisters at the Charité Maternelle General Hospital, emphasize the urgent need for international support to restore health services devastated by continuous fighting.
Additionally, the psychological impact of the conflict is significant. A clinical psychologist sister discussed the trauma experienced by her and her peers due to the brutal scenes witnessed, emphasizing the importance of providing comfort and counseling to those affected. Her sentiment reflects the larger motivations of these sisters who remain steadfast in their commitment to help their community, despite the trauma and risks they face.
Their resolve remains strong, with various sisters expressing a desire to remain in the region to serve their communities and foster healing. They collectively call for prayers and support, pledging to continue their work in caring for those profoundly impacted by the ongoing strife, asserting, “Even in the face of fear and trauma, we remain committed to serving our community.”
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains dire, with religious sisters providing critical support amid escalating violence. Their commitment to serve and heal their communities, despite personal risks, underscores their resilience and dedication. Urgent international assistance is needed to restore health care infrastructure and provide psychological support to those affected by the conflict. The sisters’ calls for prayers reflect their hope for peace in a country ravaged by war.
Original Source: www.globalsistersreport.org
