In early 2025, paramilitary group M23 tore through the city of Goma, in eastern Congo. The violent takeover left 3000 people murdered, countless others wounded, and the city in ruins.
During the siege, eleven Ursuline Sisters living in the heart of Goma sheltered inside their convent and school. Gunfire peppered the buildings, leaving them badly damaged. Looters came through their offices, stealing anything of value. Miraculously, they all survived the attack, but were left with nothing.
In the aftermath of the takeover, thousands of survivors fled the city in search of safety – except for the Sisters, who, shell shocked and lacking food, provisions, and a safe place to live, braved the ongoing danger and devastation to help those left behind.
Sr. Matilda Dungdung recently shared an update from her fellow Sisters in Goma. She reports that, following the takeover, the paramilitary took total control over public life in the city, hampering initial rebuilding efforts. However, thanks to our generous donors, repairs to the Sisters’ buildings are finally underway and their school has reopened, restoring some sense of community and normalcy for those struggling under paramilitary rule. Sr. Matilda writes, “[SRW’s] financial support ensures the Sisters are able to carry on the mission of Christ in Goma at a crucial time.”
Pictures of the Ursuline Sisters convent and school restoration
We continue to pray for the Sisters in Goma, and all they serve.
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