South Africa: Never stop knocking ...

Turning flight into hope: French-speaking refugees in Pretoria are supported and given perspective

"I had to follow them. I was arrested. I had no idea why. After two weeks, they ordered us to leave and follow them," Pastor Rosalie Madika describes the beginning of her escape from the civil war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo. After three months, she arrived in South Africa.

More than a million people have applied for asylum there and are waiting. French-speaking refugees in particular are suffering. Former Bishop Müller (North Eastern Lutheran Church in South Africa (NELCSA)) is happy to stand up for these people: "... People who are running after life, who ... have no means of survival at home".

Rosalie Madika worked with such people as pastor of the NELCSA in Pretoria and looked after a good 600 French-speaking refugees: "I stand up for them; help them get the right documents and find accommodation. I pray with them; listen to them. In particularly desperate situations, I can also help them get food and clothes." Every Sunday there is worship in French. Bible study and joint worship give people strength, power and hope to overcome their difficult situation.

As Rev. Madika left the project lat 2023, we are happy that the Lutheran Community Outreach Foundation is stepping in and will continue to support refugees in need.

With your donation you support the work for refugees in South Africa and give people new courage and perspective. Thank you.