Congolese orphans from the Kinshasa area. Photo/GBGM

Children orphaned by war, disease and poverty in the Democratic Republic of Congo soon will have a place to call home following the recent ground-breaking for an orphanage being built with donations to the Bishops' Appeal, "Hope for the Children of Africa."

The new "Hope" orphanage will serve more than 200 children who have lost their parents. The shelter is one of a series of "Hope" orphanages and schools that will be built throughout the continent in United Methodist episcopal areas.

Passing of "the peace" between Rev. Clyde Anderson and a young orphan. Photo/GBGM

Representing Global Ministries at the ceremony was the Rev. Clyde Anderson, executive secretary of the Mission Context and Relationships--Africa Office. Local representation was led by the episcopal leader for the region, Bishop Onema Fama and his spouse; a delegation of government leaders; and a local Catholic bishop. Members of neighboring congregations were in attendance including youth of Inner City Church in Kinshasa.

Bishop Onema Fama prays before cross and flame designed by his son who studied in the United States and returned home to serve as an engineer. Photo/GBGM

Dr. Moleko Moliwa, Minister of Family Affairs, said that opening the orphanage was possible because of mutuality of cooperation between church and government. She added that there was appreciation for all that the United Methodist Church is doing to bring about positive change and lasting peace.

Describing the affair as a spiritual and heart-warming event, Rev. Anderson said that a Bible, hymnal, and the constitution of the church were placed in the cornerstone to serve as expression of God's faithfulness to the lives of the people and ministry of the church.

September 18, 2000

See also:
Fall Update On: Hope For The Children of Africa, by Brenda Wilkinson
United Methodists Dedicate Orphanage in Congo, UMNS