Feb. 23-24, Kigali, Rwanda
The fourth annual conference session of the Rwanda Provisional Conference of The United Methodist Church was held in Kigali, Rwanda, at Gisozi United Methodist Church on Feb. 23-24.
During his welcoming remarks, the Rev. Marc Baliyanga, dean and legal representative, thanked God for enabling the conference to gather in person after postponing for two years due to COVID-19. He also thanked and welcomed East Africa Episcopal Area Bishop Daniel Wandabula and delegates and wished them holy conferencing.
Bishop Wandabula presided over the session. He welcomed delegates from the five districts of the Rwanda Provisional Conference. He complimented them and United Methodists in Rwanda for their commitment to local ministries and making it possible to reopen many of the United Methodist churches in Rwanda.
He reminded the delegates to “be strong and courageous” all the time and in every situation. In total, 89 delegates attended the conference
The theme of the Rwanda Provisional Annual Conference was taken from Deuteronomy 31:6 — “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you: he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Highlights of the two-day gathering included:
- Remarks from the bishop.
- The ordination and commissioning of pastors.
- Presentation of different reports from districts, church organizations and the dean and legal representative, including a report on Wesley Theological School Rwanda.
- Submission and voting on a petition for the “Creation of Rwanda Annual Conference,” which was unanimously approved by the conference.
The Rev. Jean Claude Bucyensenge from Inkuru Nziza Church was the guest speaker.
In his sermon, he highlighted that Moses knew that he could not work alone, so he established leadership. Moses chose Joshua, recognizing that leadership in God’s ministry is succession. Leadership is not kingship, he said.
The Bible should always be a great weapon provided by God, Bucyensenge said, adding that to be a good leader you need to treat all people equally and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you.
— Alexis Nzabonimpa, conference secretary for the Rwanda Provisional Conference.
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