Pray with the Democratic Republic of Congo, October 18, 2026

Lectionary Selection: Matthew 22:15-22

Prayers for the Democratic Republic of Congo

Prayer of Intercession for the Nation (Prière d’Intercession pour la Nation)

Lord God Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth, Creator of the Congo and Sustainer of its People:
We come before Your throne of grace with humble and repentant hearts on behalf of our nation. The crisis we face is not merely political or economic; it is a crisis of the spirit and of the soul.

We pray for our People:
Remember the suffering, the displaced, and the vulnerable—especially in the eastern provinces. Be the refuge for the brokenhearted, the protector of women and children, and the comfort to those who feel abandoned. Grant us national unity and deliver our land from the hands of foreign exploitation, violence, and division.

We pray for our Leaders:
Endow our leaders, from the local magistrates to the President of the Republic, with divine wisdom, integrity, and the fear of God. Grant them the courage to govern with justice, to reject corruption, to put the lives of the people above self-interest, and to guide our country toward a lasting, sustainable peace.

We pray for the Church:
Keep Your Church faithful to its prophetic calling—to denounce evil without fear, to defend truth, and to act as peacemakers across every province. Bind all Protestant families and Christian communities in unity so that we may stand as one light in the darkness.

Restore our land, Lord. The Democratic Republic of Congo shall not die; it shall live and proclaim the works of the Lord.

In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior,
Amen.

Prayer written by Rev. Dr. André Bokundoa-bo-Likabe (ECC)

Mission Moment from the Democratic Republic of Congo

What began in 1959 as a small theological seminary with just three students has grown into one of the largest Protestant-affiliated universities in the world. Today, Université Protestante au Congo (UPC) in Kinshasa welcomes nearly 10,000 students and offers programs in fields including business, law, medicine, and theology.

While UPC is affiliated with the Church of Christ in the Congo, its student body reflects the rich religious diversity of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Protestant students make up about 32% of the student population, while approximately 38% are members of Independent Churches and 29% are Roman Catholic. The university also welcomes Kimbanguist and Muslim students, creating an academic community where people from diverse faith traditions learn and grow together.

In a region marked by political and social challenges, UPC has maintained its commitment to academic independence while giving thousands of young people opportunities to pursue education and prepare for leadership in their communities. Its story is a powerful reminder that education can create space for encounter, understanding, and hope across differences.

From three students in a small seminary to nearly 10,000 students today, UPC’s educational mission continues to grow. The advancement of this mission is to the glory of God!

Mission Partners in the Democratic Republic of Congo

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