MERRY CHRISTMAS 2025!

Why am I committed to helping people in need in the Democratic Republic of Congo?

This question is often asked when I talk about the dramatic situation of the many people in DR Congo who live in difficult conditions or even in deep poverty. Their fate leaves me deeply moved.

The two Congo wars at the turn of the millennium had a lasting impact on my life while I was doing my PhD at the University of Bonn. The second war, which almost took on international proportions, was described by Susan Rice, who was then the US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, as the ‘first African World War’.

In the face of such suffering, I could not simply turn a blind eye. How could I have continued my academic research when a child was dying of malaria due to a lack of medicine or a pregnant woman was risking her life in childbirth due to inadequate medical care? This reality haunted me, especially as the humanitarian crisis continued to worsen, fuelled by food insecurity and, most recently, the influx of Mbororo cattle herders and South Sudanese refugees to the Faradje area of Haut-Uele province.

In those difficult times, I could not remain idle. As a clergyman, I received a monthly allowance of 200 euros and decided to send the full amount to Congo. The money was used to purchase a microscope and urgently needed medicines in Kampala, Uganda, which benefited our communities. My actions were motivated purely by altruism and inspired by the example set by my late parents, Pascal and Rustika. Their values and love live on in my heart and continue to guide me to this day.

Unfortunately, the situation has hardly improved in the last two decades. On 17 September 2025, Julienne, a young woman, gave birth to her son, Alfred, by caesarean section in one of our clinics. However, she was not permitted to leave until the 250 US dollar fee had been paid. Upon hearing this, I immediately sent the necessary funds to the clinic director, Mr Godefroid Mikanda, and Julienne was finally able to go home with her baby. It is thanks to your support that this mother can now experience joy and relief. Thanks to your donations to Kongo Social Care, this mother and child have been given their freedom and a new lease of life.

These experiences and memories sustain me and give me a sense of security. Advent began on 30 November 2025, a season full of customs and traditions that provide guidance, security and stability, particularly during uncertain times. Our eyes are fixed on Christmas, and we have time until Christmas Eve to prepare ourselves inwardly. But how can I prepare so that baby Jesus finds a place in my heart?

A modern ultrasound system, the Alpinion X-Cube 60, is needed in the Congo.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, countless people lack basic medical care. Precise diagnoses that could mean the difference between life and death are out of reach for many. To change this, we urgently need a modern ultrasound system: the Alpinion X-Cube 60. The purchase price is €25,000. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to this goal and gives people the chance of timely treatment. Your support can make a decisive difference: together, we can finance the device and improve long-term medical care. Together, we have the power to give hope and open up new possibilities, ensuring that everyone in Congo receives what they deserve: dignity, health, and a future.

My new dual role in eastern Belgium

After almost five fulfilling years as a chaplain for students and young professionals in Liège, I am beginning a new chapter. From January 2026, I will take on a dual role in the German-speaking part of the Diocese of Liège in eastern Belgium. I will work part-time in the St Vith parish in the Eifel deanery, while also providing pastoral care in the hospital and nursing home. I am looking forward to contributing my experience and passion for supporting people and collaborating with the local communities.