BACK HOME !!

 We made the decision to leave Goma ahead of schedule due to the increasing tensions there.  On Nov 2 we left Congo and were able to spend 10 days in Kigali, Rwanda, taking time to catch our breath and decompress from our rather stressful situation and uncertainty there in Goma. We spent our time with old friends and World Venture missionaries,  Gary and Barb Bennett. Together with Gary & Barb we were able to spend 2 days visiting the Akagera National Game Park. What a wonderful time seeing all the beautiful roaming animals like giraffes, bushbuck, hippos, zebras, impalas, topies and warthogs, not to mentions so many colorful birds!

We were still in Kigali when my sister Sue and her husband, Bob Cullen, flew into Kigali on their way back to Kabale, Uganda, where they've ministered for nearly 30 years. So glad we could see them.

Today the view out our window is in stark contrast to those we've been enjoying the past couple of months.   Snowy flurries and 32 degrees. Brrrrr!

Mid 70's 

Brrrrrrrr!!!

This morning we received an alert email from the 'U Embassy in Kinshasa, DR Congo warning us of the deteriorating situation in Goma.  We are relieved that we are not still there but safely home, but we're very concerned for our dear Congolese brothers and sisters who have to deal with these troubles and uncertain times. Please be praying for safety and peace for our Congolese friends!!!

Thank you so much for your prayers for us during our time in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Judd & Sandi Kile

Here is today's alert from the Embassy: 

“Security Alert: From the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa, DRC (15 NOV 22) 

Location: Eastern DRC and Border Regions, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) 

Event: Clashes between the March 23 Movement armed group and the Congolese military are occurring in the East of the country, mostly recently in the town of Kibumba, approximately 20 kms northeast of the provincial capital of Goma, North Kivu.  Due to the proximity of fighting to Goma, there is the possibility for escalating violence, and U.S. citizens are reminded that our Travel Advisory guidance remains at a Level 4: Do Not Travel to North Kivu Province. 

Further combatant advances could occur with little warning, and roads to the airport and border risk being closed should the fighting approach Goma.  Some non-governmental organizations in Goma have instructed their staff to shelter in place or to leave the city. “