Strengthening Churches in the DRC

From September 2–17, a team representing the Seventh Day Baptist Missionary Society traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to encourage local churches, provide leadership training, and assess ongoing ministry projects. The visit, led by Director of Mobilization and Projects, Rev. Garfield Miller, and Pastor Nestor Ntirugirimbabazi of Burundi, was the Society’s third trip to the DRC since 2017 and built upon years of partnership and growth.

The team led two major leadership training sessions, one in Kinshasa and another in Kananga, with nearly 150 pastors and leaders in attendance. Training materials translated into French covered essential biblical and organizational topics, including SDB Identity, Stewardship, Leadership, and Evangelism. Participants expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the clarity and encouragement they received.

SDB ministry in the DRC began in 2016 and now includes 125 congregations and approximately 10,000 believers. This rapid growth has been remarkable, revealing a vibrant and expanding movement of faith. During site visits to the orphan program and the pigsty project, the team identified areas for improvement in coordination and communication.

Over the last 6 months, consistent efforts have been made to strengthen oversight. Monthly meetings have been held with conference leaders and the Orphan Committee, and regular updates have been received about the needs of the children and the ministry on the ground.

Through these faithful efforts, the ministry has provided ongoing care for approximately 30 orphans, including food, healthcare, and education.

In the midst of this encouraging work, there has also been sorrow. One of the children experienced a sudden illness, was taken to the hospital, and passed away shortly after. We grieve this loss while continuing to trust God’s care for each child and the community surrounding them.

Even with challenges, the greater story remains clear. God is at work. Lives are being changed, leaders are being equipped, and churches are taking root and growing. With improved communication and continued mentorship, the churches in the DRC are positioned to mature in both spiritual depth and organizational strength.

Looking ahead, the Missionary Society remains committed to walking alongside the DRC Conference. The next visit is planned for August 2026, with a continued focus on leadership development and strengthening partnerships that will support long-term growth.

Reflection

Growth in God’s Kingdom is both a gift and a responsibility. Scripture reminds us, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6). The story of the church in the DRC reminds us that growth is not only about numbers. It is about faithfulness, perseverance, and the steady work of God shaping His people over time. What begins small can, through God’s power, become something far greater than we imagined.

Prayer

Pray for continued spiritual and organizational growth among Seventh Day Baptists in the DRC. Ask God to bless their leaders with wisdom, unity, and perseverance as they guide this young and rapidly growing movement. Pray also for the children in the orphan program, that they would be protected, cared for, and surrounded by the love of Christ.

Reflection Question

Where have you seen God grow something small into something far greater than you imagined? How might He be inviting you to nurture that growth today?

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