No matter how small the village in Congo, there is always a church. This particular church was in Bosobolo, a small village in Nord Ubangi province. I was there to manage our Girl Rising campaign for which we showed the movie in villages across four provinces to promote girl’s education. People work very hard in Congo and their only day off is Sunday, so when I am in a village it’s my only day off too. One Sunday morning I was enjoying a leisurely walk around the village and stumbled upon this beautiful church with gospel music in the local language of Lingala pouring out of every window. There was no electricity in this part of the province but their passion for Christ made up for the lack of amplification. I peaked my head in through the front doors and a woman immediately grabbed me and led me up to the front of the church and installed me behind these alter boys. Since I was the only white person for oh, say 1,000 Miles, all the wide eyes were on me. But the music carried on. I sat back and enjoyed the moment immensely.

Magic 51/365, Take Me to Church, Bosobolo, Nord Ubangi, DRC