Crisis in the Ubangi -- Please Pray

The northwestern portion of the Congo, known as the Ubangi District, is a place where Elim and the Evangelical Free Church (through its Congo arm, the CECU) has had a unique ministry. There are more than 900 EV Free churches in this area, and Elim has sent teams twice and been involved in supporting TouchGlobal and the Elikya Project for orphans and widows. Several Elim families also sponsor orphans in this area.

That's why we are very concerned about the armed conflict that has recently begun consuming this area, including Gemena and Tandala. There has been a lot of fighting between rebels and government troops, with innocent civilians getting caught in the crossfire. Many families have been forced into hiding in the jungle. Among these, very likely, are sponsored orphans supported by EV Free Church members. TouchGlobal reports that Tandala Hospital, where Dr. Cal has done training, is being flooded with wounded and that the roads in the area are very unsafe.

Communication is limited. The CECU's satellite communications system has been damaged and has possibly been dismantled and hidden to keep it out of the wrong hands. What information the EV Free headquarters has it is getting indirectly, through trusted sources. Dr. Tom has asked us to pray:

• For a quick end to the fighting.
• For the government leaders and the UN that they will make wise decisions to help bring peace.
• For President Bosokpale and the CECU leaders as they assess how to react to each new situation that arises.
• For wisdom to know how we can help from afar.
• For safety for the various church leaders and people in the churches as well as their families.
• For the many who are injured, violated and harmed in this war as they try to recover.
• For the pastors and leaders as they try to help their people deal with the trauma of what they have gone through.
• For the doctors at Tandala trying to deal with the huge influx of injured and refugees needing help.