Clean, running water is a luxury in many villages across the world. Waterborne diseases account for thousands of deaths each year.
Once upon a time, Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in the small village of Ngidinga, Democratic Republic of Congo, taught in a one-room schoolhouse.
No one in the village had access to clean water or electricity. Students spent significant time collecting and boiling dirty water from a stream located a mile down a steep ravine. At night, they completed homework by candlelight. Even at the clinic, procedures were performed by the light of kerosene lanterns.
That all changed dramatically in February 2008 when the Sisters installed a photovoltaic system to provide a sustainable energy source and clean water.\
Today the clinic has expanded into a small hospital equipped with a sterilizer, incubators, lighting, x-ray machine, refrigeration and clean water. The one-room schoolhouse has expanded to include an elementary and a secondary school. Electricity allows internet access for medical consultation, classroom learning and communication with people around the world.
In under two decades, the small village of Ngidinga has been transformed into a bustling town of more than 117,000 residents. This Lent, please pray that hearts are open to the goodness of God in Ngidinga where our Sisters continue to teach and minister in the area.
With blessings for a meaningful Lent,
Sister Ann Fanella, SNDdeN
Clean Water for Life Project Volunteer
PRAYERS FROM Sister ANne MacDonald, SNDdeN
My Gracious Jesus,
Today, when praying the "Stations of the Cross" with you, I especially was that in spite all the indignities and agony which you suffered, you were alert to the feelings of the people whom you met on the way to Calvary. With little concern for your misery and without hesitation, you reached out with patient love and compassion to engage with these women and men who needed your world or touch so badly.
O, my loving Jesus, I ask you to inspire me to imitate you by giving freely without a second thought or expectation as you did. Let my acts reflect your endless Love and Compassion. This I ask through your Holy Name. Amen.