Village men and women are actively engaged in improving their living conditions. Health is a top concern which can be addressed with clean water.
Clean Water is Key to Life
If you have been following along with our Clean Water for Life series, you know that clean water is the key to a healthy life. Today, we’d like you to know more about one of the areas where our Sisters live and work to bring health and hope to the world.
Pelende is a remote village in the Democratic Republic of Congo where the Sisters established and run two schools and a hospital.
Approximately 5,000 residents of Pelende spend their days focused on two things: food and water. They farm for produce, raise small animals like goats and chickens and source clean water for drinking, preparing food and bathing.
Two decades ago, the village water system that was built in the 1950s failed completely. The Sisters knew a more reliable solution was needed and began infrastructure improvements. They hit hurdle after hurdle but just recently, Sister Lucie Kima, SNDdeN Pelende, wrote to share some good news:
“The word fails us to express what we feel in our entire community and the entire population of Pelende when we see drinking water flowing through our taps in these days, after nine years of lack of drinking water. We can only say a huge thank you from the bottom of our hearts as well as all those who have contributed to the success of this project. May the Lord bless your efforts and sacrifices for the success of this project and repay them according to His will.”
Pray that the success of the water system installation will open hearts to receive the goodness of God.
Sister Ann Fanella, SNDdeN
Clean Water for Life Volunteer
P.S. If you'd like additional information about the Clean Water for Life project, don't hesitate to contact Karen Hadden at [email protected]rg or 513-679-8106.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, in your thirst on the cross, you were given vinegar to drink. How good you are to help us provide clean drinking water for all the women, children and men in Pelende! And also to provide the precious gift of electricity in our Notre Dame schools and clinic there! You truly are the Light of our world! Amen.
Written by Sister Mary Ann Cook, SNDdeN