Topic: Responding to Violence

On any given day, United Methodists respond to tragedy by offering prayers and support. We recognize that sometimes it can seem the world is full of evil and it can be a challenge to keep the faith.

Below you will find resources for helping people cope with violent events; news coverage of how the church is working to respond with peace in a world of violence; and stories about how individuals as well as ministries can make a positive difference even in the most difficult of times.


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Violence
Nurse Franck Onamemba shows broken windows at United Methodist Irambo Health Center in Bukavu, Congo. The church hospital was ransacked by armed men during the weekend of Feb. 14-16 as fighting between M23 rebels and the Congolese armed forces continues in eastern Congo. Photo by Philippe Kituka Lolonga, UM News.

Violence, vandalism strike church in Congo

Fighting in eastern Congo has affected United Methodist families and ministries, including an attack at United Methodist Irambo Health Center in Bukavu.
Violence
United Methodists Joséphine Kingombe and Masudi Kansilembo read messages sent to their phones by pastors in Bukavu, Congo. Church leaders are sending support to help the faithful during growing insecurity in the region. Photo by Philippe Kituka Lolonga, UM News.

United Methodists stay connected amid Congo conflict

With churches shuttered due to insecurity in the region, United Methodist leaders are using social networks to continue evangelism and deliver messages of hope.
Social Concerns
Young people hold a banner during a rally for peace in Kindu, Congo, in early February. Behind them, United Methodist clergy and other young people march to demand peace in eastern Congo, where fighting between M23 rebels and the Congolese army has escalated in recent months. Photo by Chadrack Tambwe Londe, UM News.

Churches multiply peace initiatives in eastern Congo

United Methodists join with other religious groups to seek lasting solutions to insecurity in the region, while young people rally for peace.

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