Rebuilding in War-torn Congo

In early 2025, paramilitary group M23 tore through the city of Goma, in eastern Congo. The violent takeover left 3000 people brutally 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. The buildings were peppered with gunfire and badly damaged. Their offices were looted. 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 while the paramilitary rebels have almost total control over public life, the vital work of rebuilding is underway. Thanks to our generous donors, repairs to the Sisters’ buildings are completed and their school has reopened for local students.

Sr. Matilda shares, "The Sisters, teachers and over 2000 students feel safe and secure to come and study in the school. The rebels too are very positive about the project. We, the entire Ursuline Congregation and teaching staff, parents and the students of Ursuline School Goma are deeply grateful and thank you for the financial help we received during the time of tragedy."