Doing good makes people happy! (4) Steep paths, a second life, and caring for others

23 12 2025

Author: Sophie Berg

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“A family, even when things become difficult”

An adventurous act of love took place in Lima in Peru. A small group of brothers and sisters, including an entire orchestra travelled to Huaycho, Tallabamba Lucma. Their mission: pastoral care, strengthening their brothers and sisters, and performing live music.

The road to Huaycho is narrow, challenging, and steep. The last section is not more than a trail—not even an official one. “The geographical conditions seem to remind us that goodness always requires a small sacrifice if it is to be genuine,” Jenefri Vanessa Orihuela Calderon explains.

But the effort was well worth it. The joy of the congregation was great. The small group was greeted by the brothers and sisters with a gratitude “that can only arise in those who have learned to appreciate every gesture”, the travellers report.

The joy of listening to an orchestra or attending a divine service is not an everyday occurrence for the members in this remote area. “The music filled the small church, and the mountains seemed to fall silent to listen.” The visit not only strengthened faith but also fostered fellowship and loving bonds. Jenefri explains, “We did not go there to give something. We travelled there to share something: the conviction that the Church is a family, even in remote places that are difficult to reach.”

On the way back, the group reflected on their visit to Huaycho. “Goodness is not something theoretical but is lived action. It requires walking, climbing, effort, support, and the reminder that faith only thrives when it is lived.”

Photo / Video: Jenefri Vanessa Orihuela Calderon

Harmony across borders

Great teamwork in Zambia. The congregations in Sesheke, Kazungula/Mambova, Livingstone, Monze, Choma, and Lusaka were the delighted benefactors of a large number of musical instruments. Included were recorders (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), violins, clarinets, and flutes. The musical instruments came from Germany—and will be given a second life in Zambia by enthusiastic musicians. The drive and the distribution were organised locally by David Sambi from Zambia. David says, “We would like to express our gratitude to all those who have supported us in the development of music in our District Apostle Area (Zambia, Malawi and Zimbabwe).”

Photo: David Sambi

Back to school with heart

Some mothers and ministers from Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo came up with something special for the start of school in August: a starter pack with school supplies for orphans. They presented the school supplies to the children after a divine service in the Bamanga congregation.

Photo: Trésor M. Kalolo

Celebrating togetherness

Some of the members in the district of Thun in Switzerland had decided that it was time to do something special for the district. It started with a small idea and developed into a large two-day gathering at an event location in Interlaken.

Thanks to the surprisingly large number of generous donations and numerous helpers, the gathering in May 2025 was a success. Seven congregations from the area were able to take part in the numerous workshops and the divine service with District Apostle Thomas Deubel.

Andrea Glatthard and Brigitte Landmesser remember, “It was a wonderful experience to celebrate the divine service with so many members and guests, to sing songs, to enjoy fellowship, and to give space to ecumenism.” They concluded, “By organising this, the brothers and sisters involved did themselves and the community a lasting favour.”