Bishop Bickerton's Congo Journal - Day 4
We arose early and began our journey throughout the Kamina and the North Katanga Province. It was a day to experience the depth of the United Methodist Church’s involvement in this region. We visited a university and watched as students learned mathematics and science.
From there it was a steady flow of churches, clinics, elementary schools, secondary schools, a hospital, and more sections of the canal to remove standing water (a natural breeding ground for mosquitoes). We met children who were learning, adults who were digging, nurses who were providing care, all with one thing in common. They were United Methodist.
The influence our church has in this region is truly inspiring. We are the main institution which brings hope and life to these people. Faith and life are being offered through the ministry of our church.The most humbling part of our visit today took place in the small hospital and neighboring clinic. There we witnessed a small child in the final days of life. She was dying from malaria. Next door we sat next to a woman lying alone on the floor of an examination room. She was in the final stages of HIV/AIDS.
When they say “Imagine No Malaria,” it is a dream that will directly affect their lives and futures. The time to help is now.
I saw a child dying from malaria today, and I prayed – for her and for us.
That’s why I am here.
The Journey Continues, . . .
By: Bishop Thomas Bickerton On 4/18/2010
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