In our March issue, Ariana Herlinger reported on the history and vibrant present of Christian Science in the Democratic Republic of Congo. For this month's issue she crosses the Congo River into the neighboring Republic of Congo and relays more stories of resilience, courage, and church growth.
WE CROSSED THE MILE-WIDE CONGO RIVER in a small rented boat that barely fit all seven of us, including our luggage and the boat crew. It was summer 2008, and TMC Youth was traveling to the Republic of Congo for two youth summits hosted in collaboration with the local branch churches.
When we got to Brazzaville, the capital city, and later to Pointe-Noire on the Atlantic Ocean coast, the Christian Scientists welcomed us like royalty. We quickly fell in love with the beauty of the country, and were inspired and humbled by the dedication of each one of the church members we met.