Daughters of Charity International Project Services (DC IPS) is committed to funding Sisters’ projects that serve those most in need and to helping these vital programs create lasting and sustainable impact. Local Sisters in Mbandaka, Congo ensure prisoners receive nutrition, medications, toiletries, and spiritual care. Prisoners must depend on their families for these basics in many prisons, and without that resource, they go without. The Sisters also provide ongoing education opportunities in languages (Lingala & French), math and religion. They have also created a dedicated space for program activities. Most recently, Sisters organized a reinsertion project for released prisoners and juvenile delinquents. Agricultural skills as well as apprenticeships are offered to address the gap in services available to both juvenile delinquents and recently released prisoners that have no other options for paying work. This program hopes to ensure neither demographic will be forced to go back to previous behaviors which may have landed them in the system initially. Skill-building will provide additional opportunities for income as well as community building.

Testimony:

Jonas’ story unfolds amidst a series of dramatic events. His tale begins with a perilous boat journey on the Congo River. The boat, a “baleinière” or whaleboat, was constructed by its captain and had an upper and a lower deck. Jonas was on the lower deck, which was powered by multiple motors. Although the journey upstream was relatively smooth, returning downstream proved hazardous. The boat was overloaded with goods, and despite official concerns about its safety, a bribe was paid to proceed.

Jonas, who had met a young church choir member on board, bonded with him over shared interests, including the rosary. They prayed together as the weather worsened. The boat soon became unstable due to the heavy load and worsening conditions. By early morning, the overloaded boat’s walls collapsed, causing the section with Jonas and his fellow passengers to sink. Jonas and his friend managed to swim to a rowboat. They were rescued by fishermen from a nearby island. Although they lost their belongings, including their rosaries, they were grateful to be alive.

Later, Jonas encountered more challenges. In preparation for his baptism, he needed to buy a chair for the parish and cover additional fees. Despite the rising costs, he borrowed money and completed the payment. On his way to the parish, he was involved in an altercation with a pregnant woman selling fish, which led to minor injuries but no serious repercussions. Jonas’ restraint during the incident was pivotal; had he reacted violently, it could have jeopardized his baptism and his freedom, especially given a heavy police presence in the area.

On the day of his baptism, Jonas also received his First Holy Communion and was Confirmed. He felt blessed and grateful for the support and guidance he received from the Lord.

Meanwhile, the situation outside the prison where Jonas participated in catechism classes was evolving. A rise in crime had led to mass arrests, with many Kulunas—gang members involved in violent crimes—being detained. This crackdown improved safety in the streets but posed challenges for the catechism program. Despite this, the program continued, focusing on non-violence and spiritual growth. Inmates, including former gang members, showed enthusiasm for learning about faith.
Jonas’ story highlights his resilience and faith. Currently, he is involved in buying merchandise for his family’s bread-selling business. Plans are underway to enroll him in a high school and support him in balancing his studies with his work. Jonas’ testimony is a clear demonstration of both the Sisters’ unwavering commitment to the people of their community and his perseverance to grow in faith and continue to make better choices. The community continues to support him, praying for his continued growth in faith and personal development.

*Name has been changed for privacy