The Anglican Church of Rwanda, Remera Parish, has launched the “Back to Eden” couples’ gathering aimed at calling men and women to return to the foundational principles of God’s Word in order to build strong and resilient families. The week-long event, which commenced on Monday, December 2, 2024, is being held under the theme “God Keeps the House in Difficult Times” inspired by Isaiah 43:2.
The official launch was presided over by Rev. Emmanuel Karegyesa, the Senior Pastor of EAR Remera Parish, who expressed gratitude to the Fathers’ Union and Mothers’ Union for their key role in organizing the event. He emphasized the importance of marriage as a God-ordained institution that requires nurturing and protection.
This unique gathering provides couples with knowledge and spiritual guidance on the power of unity and harmony in marriage. Evangelists, including Bishop Dr. Methode JP Rukundo and Rev. Dr. Canon Antoine Rutayisire, are leading the training sessions. These sessions cover critical topics such as “God is Sending Waves to Our Homes” and “Strength to Stand in Responsibility and Harmony Between Husband and Wife.” Participants are equipped with practical tools to improve their relationships and establish homes built on love, trust, and God’s guidance.
During the gathering, Kazubwenge James, the head of the Fathers’ Union for the EAR Diocese of Kigali and Remera Parish, reminded participants that “a good home is a small heaven on Earth.” He called on men to take a leading role in building strong families, noting that a stable family is the foundation for a better community and nation.
Mbabazi Sylvia, the head of the Mothers’ Union at EAR Remera Parish, assured couples that God is able to protect and restore families regardless of the challenges they face. She emphasized that participating in such events equips families with the knowledge and support they need to thrive.
Rev. Dr. Canon Antoine Rutayisire, a renowned pastor and author of books such as “The Good Home” and “A Man in God’s Will,” encouraged participants to reflect on their actions and repent of their sins, including adultery, dishonesty, domestic infidelity, and neglect of family responsibilities. He reminded couples that the purpose of marriage is to create a God-fearing family where faith, love, and cooperation prevail.
“Repentance is admitting that you are not good and believing that God can change you for the better under His guidance,” he said. He urged couples to cultivate the fruits of the Holy Spirit, love one another, raise their children with Godly principles, and work together to protect and support their families.
Bishop Dr. Methode JP Rukundo, Bishop of the EAR Diocese of Karongi and author of “A Happy Home, Marriage, and Support,” highlighted key issues that disrupt marriages. These include adultery, dishonesty, financial mismanagement, poor communication, infertility, and dereliction of family duties. He urged couples to embrace harmony, stating that “equality and harmony is not a confrontation between women and men, but a journey that both should walk together.” He called on couples to use their God-given talents and acquired knowledge to strengthen their homes and build prosperous families.
The “Back to Eden” gathering concluded with a romantic dinner on Friday, December 6, 2024, attended by 314 men and women. The dinner was a time for couples to share experiences, exchange testimonies, and engage in fun activities that strengthened their bonds as spouses. The lively event featured renowned gospel artist Alexis, who performed several of his hit songs, including “Love of the Savior” and “Ni Inde Umaramura,” which brought joy and spiritual reflection to the participants.
Annet Ngondo, a member of the Mothers’ Union at EAR Remera Parish, expressed her gratitude for the event, stating, “We thank God for giving us good times. He gave us a church and good teachers. No one should remain the same after this gathering. What we heard is important, and we should put it into practice to build strong and faithful homes.”
Karemera Pascal, the Head of Christians at EAR Remera Parish, described this year’s gathering as more impactful than previous years. He noted that the event had moved from “good to better” and expressed appreciation for all those who played a role in making it successful.
The “Back to Eden” couples’ gathering has become a transformative experience for many families, offering renewed hope, love, and unity in homes. By focusing on God’s principles and fostering harmony between spouses, EAR Remera Parish continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening families, which, in turn, builds stronger communities and a more stable society.
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