Neighborhood Outreach Camps in the Democratic Republic of Congo

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Bukavu is a city in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on the border of Rwanda. Young Life began in Bukavu in 2007 with 10 leaders. Today, there are more than 200 leaders and almost 5,000 kids, some of whom have physical disabilities. Here are two of their stories.

“Polepole” (“Slowly slowly” in Swahili) has a physical disability and has been rejected by peers throughout his life. Polepole never thought that someone could be interested in him until he met his Young Life leader Jack. Jack got to know Polepole and invited him to Young Life club and then to
camp. At camp, Polepole understood for the first time that Jesus loves him despite his physical limitations. He also made a lot of new friends. At the end of camp, he said yes to Jesus and to a new life in Christ.

David is from a village near Bukavu and has a physical disability which keeps him isolated and without friends. He became depressed and rejected God because he was so unhappy being shunned by others. A Young Life leader met David and invited him to camp where he was amazed to meet a group of friends who loved him for who he was. During the message at camp, the speaker told how Jesus loves everyone for who they are regardless of their circumstances and that He came so that we may have abundant life. This touched David’s heart as he realized the speaker’s message about Jesus was for him and accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior.

We are so grateful for the ministry that is happening in the DRC. Will you join us in praying for Polepole, David and our Capernaum ministry in the DRC?









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