Extraordinary and unique ones

KWANGO, CONGO

Simon and Elizabeth Lusoki and Petelo and Martha Lusangu are extraordinary and unique. Africans usually do not get as old as they are, let alone celebrate their 65th and 63rd wedding anniversaries respectively. We remember the joy and celebration as multitudes celebrated these couples' 60th and 57th anniversaries in 1992. It was a historic moment in the life of the MB church in the Congo (formerly Zaire).

Now that five more years have passed, conditions have changed drastically. The country's infrastructure has almost disappeared. Transportation is exceedingly difficult. We all have aged. Memories are fading and health deteriorating, but I met the two couples on a trip to Africa last fall, and we had a short service filled with reminiscing of past experiences with the Lord.

Simon Lusoki, the son of a chief, was among the first converts from animism to Christ in his community. He also was the first Mennonite Brethren evangelist and pastor in the Kwongo region of the Congo. He has been faithful to his calling since his conversion, and when I saw him last November, he was still doing personal work with youth, adults and hospital visitors. Often he was found reading the Bible and meditating. Early in February, 1997, he went to meet his Saviour whom he loved so much. Many times we had gone on evangelistic trips together. One outstanding occasion was the first conversion from animism and witchcraft at Nzashi Mwadi in 1959. Now a significant Bible institute has begun in this village.

Petelo and Martha Lusangu have been teachers and evangelists. Martha was the first woman to accept Christ in the area around Panzi. They were valuable members of an evangelistic team travelling to MB southern district stations, conducting seminars with the churches. Many people confessed their sins, and the church was revitalized.

Petelo, as head of the MB churches in the Congo in the 1960s, heroically attempted to rescue 80 people from the clutches of rebels who were bent on destruction of lives and facilities. He was also instrumental in the formation of the Kimpwanza Church in Kikwit, which has birthed other churches in the area.

John Esau John and Sophie Esau are former MB Missions/Services missionaries in the Congo.

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