1. Crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo

2. Conflict has brought misery and pain to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Some 1.3 million people have been displaced by fighting amid suffering on a vast scale.

3. Beatrice’s husband was killed by rebels as he slept. She now faces bringing up four children alone and there’s another child on the way.

4. At the age of 11, Prince is an orphan. His parents were shot by rebels last August. His home now is a camp for the displaced. “I want peace – everyone is crying out for peace,” says Prince.

5. Nyiravogo is grief- stricken. The 40-year-old faces an uncertain future after her husband was murdered outside their home. She has to support a three-month-old son and four other children.

6. Miujiza Kisangani and his family in front of the shelter that’s now their home. `We are really helpless. Our future is uncertain,’ he says.

7. Tearfund’s response Since last autumn, we’ve supplied clothes, shelter, medical treatment, water and sanitation, to more than 75,000 of the most vulnerable victims of the conflict. Through our local church-based partners we’re also offering counselling and spiritual support to those who have been traumatised.

8. Why we need your help With the prospects of peace improving, we’re looking to increase our help so more people can rebuild their lives. Tearfund has launched an emergency appeal so our partners can provide more vital aid. €28 could provide two families with seeds and agricultural tools ready for the planting season. €55 could provide a family of with emergency household items, water containers and blankets. €107 could provide a family with a household latrine and materials to repair their house..

9. Please pray “Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed.” salm 82:3

10. For lasting peace in DR Congo For an end to ethnic tension and foreign interference For people to be able to rebuild their lives For greater humanitarian aid to relieve suffering For God’s comfort for the bereaved and orphaned Please pray

11. For the recovery of those with physical injuries For the emotional healing of the traumatised For the holistic care of women who have been raped For the restoration of livelihoods For an effective spiritual response from the local church For courage for Tearfund partners, HEAL Africa and PSSP

12. Please help us To find out more and to make a donation to our emergency appeal for the Democratic Republic of Congo, go to www.tearfund.ie All Photos: Richard Hanson/Tearfund