Religious Education and Social Justice

Project Compassion

During this week of Lent, we meet Irene, a 25-year-old single mother of two boys living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Despite experiencing extreme poverty, she has become a skilled seamstress and can now support her children’s education with her income.

Thanks to Caritas Australia’s partners, Caritas Kongolo, Irene was able to join the Youth Capacity Strengthening Program and access resources that would give her a second chance to forge a brighter future for herself and her family. 

Irene took up a sewing course offered by Caritas Kongolo, who also provided sewing machines and fabrics for sewing. In addition to this, Caritas Kongolo ran agricultural training sessions so that she can grow and produce food for her family.

At the end of the 6-month sewing course, Irene and her peers were provided with sewing machines so they could continue practicing their skills and earn an income.

Thanks to the program and the compassion of supporters like you, Irene has been able to break out of a cycle of poverty and can now forge a brighter future for her children.

Lenten Prayer

May I stand in solidarity today 

with all my brothers and sisters 

around the world who are suffering. 

May we be united in your love,

 and may I work to build your kingdom 

here on earth.

Amen

Jane Wilkinson

Religious Education Leader