Because of the migration of people between Congo and Northern Rhodesia, however, some Rhodesian brothers were able to enter Congo, usually for brief periods.

1945: It takes a courageous man to stand for God and his Theocratic kingdom in [Belgian Congo]. Not only are the work and literature completely banned, but Congo Africans professing association with us are liable to be transported to a certain district where they are kept in a loose sort of confinement sometimes for several years. Letters sent us from the Congo seldom reach here [Northern Rhodesia], and mail sent back is, it seems, not delivered; but . . . everything possible is being done to help our fellow Kingdom workers in this priest-ridden country.

About this time, Llewelyn Phillips, from the branch office in Northern Rhodesia, traveled to Belgian Congo to intervene in behalf of the persecuted Witnesses there. The governor-general and other government officials listened as he explained the nature of the Kingdom-preaching work and the difference between Witness beliefs and those of the Kitawala. At one point the governor-general wistfully asked: “If I help you, what will happen to me?” He well knew that the Roman Catholic Church exercised great influence in the land.

1950: The past year has been the most difficult of any, and, for the brethren who have lived in the Congo Belge, that means a good deal. Early in the service year not all books and letters to the territory were received and means of communication almost closed down.