Jesus for the Pygmies
By Kathy L. Gilbert
Jan. 19, 2016 | KANANA, Democratic Republic of Congo (UMNS)
In one of the poorest countries in the world — deep in the forests and savannas — live tribes of pygmies who are among the poorest members of Congo’s society.
Isolated, without access to education, health care, food or clean water and without representation in society and government, the pygmy tribes are especially vulnerable to the armed conflict that has plagued the Democratic Republic of Congo for years.
For decades, soldiers and rebels have driven these tribes from their homes, captured them, sold them as slaves, raped and murdered hundreds.
Bishop Gabriel Yemba Unda has a heavy heart for these people who suffer in the far-flung areas under his care.
As bishop, he said it is especially important to think about those who are the least, the last and the lost. He worries about the “forest people’s” lack of access to education and healthcare, but he is most concerned about their souls.