"What am I doing?" That question flashed silently across my mind as I peered out the Cessna plane window at the verdant Congolese countryside below. It was June 2012, and I was visiting UCBC for the first time. Questions about the safety of the tiny aircraft mixed with my anticipation for finally seeing the place that had captured my mind and heart a few years earlier.
In December 2013, the same "What am I doing?" question pestered me. I had recently moved to Beni to work with Congo Initiative's peace and reconciliation efforts. I was surprised to be asked to serve as one of the university chaplains because it didn't seem to be an obvious fit for my peace studies background. But God soon reminded me of my response to my initial 2012 visit: "I want to be a part of the UCBC community in any way possible - no matter the official job title."
One year later, I can think of no better way to "be a part" of the UCBC community than through the chaplaincy. I am continually amazed to see the gifts of students and staff members come together at chapel services, mentor groups and monthly Reflection Days. As chaplain, I was privileged to serve on the Creation Care Committee and as staff advisor to Women's Voices. I now see that any investment in this institution contributes to long-term peace and justice by developing new kinds of leaders for DRC.
Congo Initiative is the fruit of countless people's decision to embrace the "What am I doing?" moments and be surprised by ways God uses them to advance his kingdom community in Congo. Today, I invite you to ask yourself a similar question: "What's my part to play in this adventure?" Many of you have already joined us in this adventure, and all of us - staff, students, international partners - have been transformed in the process. You can begin, or continue, your part by making a year-end gift to Congo Initiative today.
Once you do, and as a result, the question then becomes "What great things will God do through me and CI in 2015?"
- Jessica Shewan
International Staff Fellow
