Men and women of the Anglican Church in Rwanda (EAR), Remera Parish, were reminded of the importance of striving to make meaningful contributions to the world, especially through educating the young and bearing fruits that bless others.
This message was delivered during the conclusion of Family Week, held on July 6, 2025. The event also marked the reception of 30 new members into the Mothers’ Union and 16 into the Fathers’ Union.
The celebration was attended by Christians, friends, and partners of the EAR Church; members and leaders of the Mothers’ and Fathers’ Unions; pastors, deacons, bishops, and public officials.
The Bishop of the EAR Diocese of Kigali, Rt. Rev. Nathan Amooti Rusengo, gave thanks to God for the continued growth of both unions.
“These unions support married couples and those preparing to build Christian homes,” he said.
“They serve as important platforms for men and women to come together, learn the truth of their calling, and fulfill their responsibilities within the family. They help guide families according to God’s will.”
He encouraged all participants to put into practice the lessons they had learned during Family Week, particularly emphasizing the role of families in raising children and teaching them to walk in the righteousness of Christ.
James Kazubwenge, the Chairman of the Fathers’ Union in the EAR Diocese of Kigali, echoed the importance of the family, calling it “God’s project.”
He explained that since man and woman were created in God’s image, they are called to walk in His love and do His will. He thanked everyone who contributed to the success of Family Week, which raised 3.5 million Rwandan Francs to renovate a house for a widow who survived the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Kazubwenge affirmed that the Church would continue playing a strong role in building resilient communities and contributing to their overall development. The collected funds were officially handed over to the Mayor of Kicukiro District by the JADF Partner Officer in the district.
Deborah Amahoro Habimana, Vice president of the Mothers’ Union at EAR Remera, and Clarisse Gatera Niwemugeni, Director of the Mothers’ Union in EAR Kanombe Diocese, gave thanks to God for the progress made in 2025.
These included expanded teachings on the importance of holy marriage and increased engagement in promoting Christian family values.
Other sessions during Family Week focused on encouraging parents to raise their children in faith, nurture unity among all Christians through prayer and worship, and provide holistic support for families facing hardships.
The overall mission was to create stable homes where children can grow safely, both spiritually and emotionally.
Launching Family Week on June 30, 2025, Senior Pastor Rev. Karegyesa Emmanuel of EAR Remera Parish introduced the theme: “Building a Christlike Generational Legacy” (Genesis 18:19).
He encouraged parents to be empowered by God in training children who embody faith, Christ-like character, and godly values.
“Families have a responsibility to reflect God’s presence in the world,” he said.
“We must continue to trust Him and seek to help others and bring transformation where we live.”
Pastor Mary Kamanzi, Executive Director of PEACE Plan Ministry Rwanda and expert in family ministry, led a session on how to bless the world through strong families. She said,
“We bless the world when we bless our children. When they grow up in safe, loving homes—where they are protected, taught, and raised well—they thrive emotionally, physically, and spiritually.”
She encouraged young people to build marriages based on love, commitment, and legality, and to avoid anything that could destabilize their families.
Pastor Rev. Dr. Canon Antoine Rutayisire, author of books such as “A Man in God’s Plan” and “Building a Good Home”, emphasized the importance of parents being present in their families.
He cautioned against prioritizing material provision at the expense of emotional and spiritual presence. “Our children need to see us, talk with us, pray with us, and read the Word of God together. That’s how we build a godly legacy and overcome obstacles in our homes.”
Antoine Mutsinzi, District Excutive Administrator of Kicukiro District, praised EAR Remera for its ongoing support of households.
“We recognize the crucial role that EAR Remera plays in improving lives and helping us meet national development goals. That’s why the Kicukiro District Administration has awarded them a certificate of appreciation.”
Participants of Family Week at EAR Remera Parish included women, youth, and other congregants who explored key topics such as: God’s plan for families, nurturing godly descendants, overcoming parenting challenges, and leaving a Christ-honoring legacy.
Through interactive panel discussions, they asked questions, exchanged ideas, and committed to building strong, faith-driven families for future generations.
You can watch the summary of the “Family Week” through the following video.
Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO / KIGALI TIMES