Jean Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO
The participants of the ‘Family Convention’ organized by the Anglican Church of Rwanda (EAR) were once again reminded of their special responsibility in building stable and God-honoring homes.
This three-day gathering was held at the EAR Parish of Remera and concluded on Saturday, February 8, 2025. It was organized by the EAR Diocese of Kigali in collaboration with the Fathers’ Union and Mothers’ Union under the theme “Building Godly Families.”
Participants included individuals from Kigali and its suburbs, who returned home determined to apply what they had learned, such as striving to have Christ as the pillar of their homes, building families based on biblical principles, training children in the way they should go, knowing and following God’s commandments, and being men and women of prayer.
The gathering began with teachings and testimonies from experienced evangelists, including guests from the United States.
James Kazubwenge, the head of the Fathers’ Union at the EAR Diocese of Kigali and the coordinator of the organizing team, stated that the concert’s objectives were successfully achieved.
He emphasized his hope that the principles of God’s Kingdom would spread within families as participants put into practice what they had learned.
As a demonstration of their commitment, the participants of the family convention decided to donate 1.5 million Rwandan francs to support 500 needy people in Kicukiro District.
Sylvia Mbabazi, the head of the Mothers’ Union at EAR Remera, expressed that the concert had been highly beneficial, as they were now committed to being role models in their families by living out the teachings they had received.
The messages shared during the concert are expected to contribute to building stable households.
Rev. Ryan Barnett, the Chief Operating Officer for the Mid-Texas Conference of the Global Methodist Church, used Genesis 18:19 to highlight that God’s purpose for the family is to reflect His beauty in the world and to make it a better place.
The lead evangelist from the United States emphasized, “A man and a woman should love and submit to each other, offer guidance in all matters, live righteously, teach those at home to fear God, and be led by Christ.”
He stressed that in all things, they should pray diligently and put forth their best efforts.
Rev. Ryan Barnett urged couples to avoid divorce and encouraged those in broken homes to do everything they could to rebuild their relationships. He also warned against destructive habits such as backsliding, drug abuse, and other harmful behaviors.
Women who attended the family concert were reminded of their vital role in the well-being of the home.
Rev. Tynna Dixon, a member of the delegation from the United States, encouraged them, saying that “God has given women the spirit of strength, and they need His wisdom to act with confidence and courage in bringing peace to their families.”
Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Murangira, a pastor in the EAR Diocese of Kigali and the Director of the Tearfund Evangelical Society in Rwanda, emphasized that the church should utilize its resources and capabilities to bring transformation to its community.
He stated, “It is necessary to restore people’s hope in every way—spiritually and physically. Progress should be seen economically, socially, and in matters of justice so that Christianity is accompanied by good works.”
Rev. Matt Pennington, another member of the delegation from the United States, urged men and women to prioritize their families, remain steadfast in God’s power, and instill His word in their children by teaching them about His love, praying for them, and guiding them toward God’s peace.
He pointed out that this commitment would enable them to share their faith with others and overcome life’s challenges. He also reminded everyone to use the gifts God has given them to build a church that brings transformation to its community.
Participants in the family concert had the opportunity to ask various questions related to the themes presented, which focused on parents from God’s perspective, raising children with respect, and the role of men in the church.
Rev. Dr. Canon Antoine Rutayisire, a pastor and author of books that guide those preparing for marriage, including “A Man in God’s Plan and Building a Strong Family,” emphasized that the world has stripped men of their value, and even the church has not given them the honor they deserve.
He stated, “Men should realign themselves with God’s purpose, teach their children at home, and actively participate in the church. They should go out and preach the gospel to other men who are struggling and overwhelmed by life.”
He further highlighted that churches should serve as role models for their congregations and guide people of all backgrounds to follow this path.
Jared Burroughs, a member of the delegation from the Methodist Church in Texas, USA, urged men to lead their families, bless them, and immerse themselves in the Word of God. He stressed that living by God’s Word enables people to act with integrity and be guided by love.
He emphasized that men should uphold Christian values and love while serving their families, all with the ultimate goal of glorifying God.
Rt. Rev. Nathan Amooti Rusengo, the Bishop of the EAR Diocese of Kigali, encouraged both men and women to seek God’s guidance so that love may flourish within families.
He concluded by stating that the spiritual nourishment gained during the concert should be carried forward into family life.
