DR Congo: An Inspiring Transformation in Kisunka through the Celebrating Families Approach
By Tatiana Ballay, Communications Officer
In the community of Kisunka in the south of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pastor Jonathan, 60, and his wife Brigitte, 53, share a testimony of family transformation thanks to the Celebrating Families training organized by World Vision in April 2024. Married for 38 years and parents of six children, they witnessed a change in their family dynamic after this experience.
"This training taught us that dialogue and mutual understanding can transform not only our home but also our community," says Pastor Jonathan.
Before the training, their home was marked by tension due to a lack of communication, with Jonathan making all the decisions and excluding his wife. Brigitte, often marginalized, expressed her dissatisfaction.
"My husband never asked for forgiveness, and he gave me money while dictating exactly how I should spend it. It was frustrating and hard to live with," recalls Brigitte.
Despite living together, the family was trapped in frustration and a lack of understanding.
A New Beginning through the Celebrating Families Approach
Thanks to the training, Jonathan and Brigitte learned to communicate better and to respect each other. Jonathan acknowledged his mistakes, and today, he consults his wife and listens to his children.
"Before, I thought everything had to be done according to my decisions. Today, I consult my wife and listen to my children," explains Pastor Jonathan.
The transformations have been profound: the couple began celebrating their children's birthdays and making decisions together, especially financial ones. This approach strengthened family bonds, and the children adopted more respectful behaviors.
Impact in the Community
As a pastor, Jonathan shared the lessons from this training with other couples. A man who had been dependent on alcohol stopped drinking and rebuilt harmonious family ties. Several husbands now actively support their wives, creating more balanced family dynamics.
"We have seen profound transformations in other couples. This training not only changed our lives but also inspired many families in our community," rejoices Pastor Jonathan.
A Vision for the Future
Enriched by this training, Jonathan and Brigitte now encourage their daughters to continue their studies before getting married, breaking with the tradition of early marriage. They want other families to benefit from this transformative approach.
"We recommend this training to all families. It taught us to value each member of our household, to ask for forgiveness, and to cultivate love and respect every day" , says Brigitte
Conclusion
The Celebrating Families approach has not only transformed Jonathan and Brigitte’s home, but it has also brought about significant change in their community, proving that it is possible to overcome cultural and economic challenges to build stronger and more resilient families.