Hope and Healing: HEAL Africa Chaplains in Goma
March 2025
Dear Friends,
In Goma, where hardship has become part of daily life—marked by economic turmoil, displacement, and insecurity—hope can feel like a distant memory. But amidst this crisis, HEAL Africa Chaplains are emerging as beacons of light, offering spiritual and emotional support to communities in need.
A Holistic Mission
HEAL Africa, a Christian NGO based in eastern DRC, goes beyond providing healthcare. We embrace a holistic approach—addressing the physical, psychological, social, economic, and spiritual needs of individuals and communities.
Restoring Souls Through Faith
At the HEAL Africa Tabernacle, chaplains deliver powerful, scripture-based messages that strengthen and uplift. Weekly sermons such as “He Restores My Soul,” “Trusting God’s Promises,” and “Times and Seasons” inspire resilience and renewed faith.
“Joy is more than laughter—it’s a way of life with God’s Spirit,” shares Pastor Damiri. “Even in trials, the Good Shepherd restores and comforts us.”
In a recent sermon titled “God Will Never Leave You,” Pastor Sophonie Kasiki reminded a weary congregation of God’s unwavering presence, drawing from Isaiah 49:15–16:
“No matter what we endure—fire, turbulence, or storms—God will never forsake us, for we are His children.”
Training Volunteers, Transforming Lives
To expand this support, our Chaplaincy leads Clinical Pastoral Training (CPT), empowering volunteers to care for patients with empathy and understanding.
- Wednesdays: Volunteers receive training, learning emotional awareness and spiritual caregiving.
- Mondays & Fridays: They visit patients to listen, comfort, and pray.
On March 26th, Rev. Sophonie Kasiki taught 23 volunteers (12 women and 11 men) about managing emotions—a vital skill for helping patients navigate trauma.
In 2024, CPT made a difference:
- 5,600 patients supported by trained counselors
- 3,996 felt comforted and hopeful about recovery
- Services extended across hospitals and communities
This year, we’re intensifying these sessions to reach even more lives.
Nurturing Families in Times of Conflict
With over 500 children attending Sunday School at HEAL Africa, our 64 trained instructors use creative, age-appropriate lessons to guide spiritual and moral development.
Parents are also supported through workshops on:
- Good parenting (Malezi Bora)
- Entrepreneurship
- Understanding children’s emotional stages
In 2024, 235 parents participated in training sessions that are helping build resilience and faith in families.
How You Can Help
Your support powers this mission of healing and hope. Here’s how you can stand with us:
- Volunteer Now – Join our chaplaincy team and bring light into someone’s darkest day.
- Donate Today – Help us train more volunteers and extend our reach.
- Share Our Mission – Spread this message and amplify hope across borders.
Together, we ensure that no one faces crisis alone.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The HEAL Africa Chaplaincy Team
Bringing hope, one soul at a time.