Statement regarding Dennis Finbow, former Priest
March 10, 2025
The St Benet’s School for Peace, located near Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has been providing education and hope to displaced children for two decades.
Established in 2005 with the support of St Benet’s Church in Beccles and the wider community, the school has grown significantly, now educating 1,200 pupils aged 3 to 19, many of whom progress to higher education.
From its humble beginnings with just eight classrooms, the school has expanded to include a two-storey building, offices, and a school library – a rare asset in DRC schools. The project has raised over £561,000 so far, with generous supporters across East Anglia, Glasgow, and Surrey.
The school is managed by Les Sœurs de Saint-Joseph Auxiliatrices de l’Église, one of the first Congolese religious orders to be recognised by Rome in the early 20th century. Sister Virginie, the current Superior, highlighted the school’s vital role in the community:
“The school is in a very poor area and gives hope and a future to children who would otherwise have no education and be on the streets.”
The sisters continue to pray for all sponsors, with Masses offered for those who are unwell or deceased. Sr Virginie has also requested prayers for stability in the region, as parts of Eastern Congo have recently come under the control of Rwandan forces, a situation that could impact Lubumbashi as it did in 2000 when the school was first founded.
Despite the challenges of operating in the DRC – including a lack of postal services since the 1960s and communication barriers in French – the project remains highly effective. The advent of WhatsApp has greatly improved communication. Crucially, every penny raised goes directly to the school, avoiding concerns over corruption or administrative overheads that often hinder international aid efforts.
To celebrate 20 years of the St Benet’s School for Peace, two special events have been planned:
- Saturday 29 March
Quiz Evening with quiz master Jeff Hoyle at the Sea Cadet Hall, Beccles (NR34 9BH) - Saturday 5 July
Garden Party with live instrumental music at The Suffolk Byre, Hulver, near Beccles
For more details, email congoschool4peace@gmail.com or visit the website: www.schoolforpeace.org.
