This article details the harrowing experiences of religious sisters in Goma, DRC, as they confront severe trauma stemming from escalating violence due to the M23 rebels’ actions. Despite overwhelming fear and danger, these sisters express a profound commitment to continue aiding their community while seeking international support for healthcare and recovery efforts.
Amid ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the plight of religious sisters serving in Goma illustrates the grim realities confronted by local communities. The Ursuline Sisters and their peers are grappling with severe trauma following a severe escalation of conflict, particularly after the M23 rebels seized control of Goma, leading to widespread fear and displacement.
Reports indicate that nearly 3,000 people have died amid the recent clashes, which escalated the long-standing conflict involving the M23 group and Congolese government forces. Observations from the area reveal that the M23 is supported by troops from Rwanda, though Rwanda denies these claims. The armed group is alleged to operate with the goal of protecting specific ethnic groups while simultaneously striving for control over the country’s mineral wealth.
Experiencing the devastating impacts of this violence firsthand, many sisters have recounted harrowing escapes from near-death situations during the confrontations. One nun described the traumatic events of a three-day bombardment that brought her perilously close to losing her life as bullets flew through her dwelling. Despite this, she voiced an unwavering commitment to remain in Goma to aid those affected by the conflict.
The situation at Charité Maternelle General Hospital underscores the dire humanitarian circumstances, as the facility faced direct assaults during engagements between rebels and government forces. A nursing sister highlighted the urgent need for international assistance to restore healthcare services, which are crucial for the community’s recovery. According to her, the infrastructure has suffered catastrophic damage, further exacerbating the plight of the injured, including vulnerable women and newborns.
Psychological turmoil, deeply rooted in the ongoing warfare, also overwhelms many sisters. A clinical psychologist working with Caritas of Goma noted that the visceral experiences of witnessing violence have left many convent members traumatized. This nun bravely continues to provide essential counseling and comfort to her peers and the broader community, underscoring the necessity of emotional support in times of crisis.
Despite the threats they face, the sisters remain resolute in their commitment to serve. Many have expressed a heartfelt desire to continue their missions in Goma, stating that the idea of leaving their homeland during such critical times is unthinkable. They call upon the global community for sustained prayers and support, seeking to amplify their efforts in healing both physical and emotional wounds inflicted by the ongoing conflict.
The escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo poses severe challenges to the local population and humanitarian responders, particularly religious sisters in Goma. Despite the trauma and fear, these sisters remain dedicated to their mission of service. They call for international support to address urgent healthcare needs and urge continued prayers for peace in the region. Their commitment highlights the resilience and compassion that persist even in the darkest of circumstances.
Original Source: www.globalsistersreport.org
