New Around the Mission

January 31, 2011

New Spiritual Leader Installed in Rwanda

Bishop Sandy Greene, retired Archbishop Emmanuel Kolini, new Archbishop Onesophore Rwaje, theAM Chairman, Bishop Chuck Murphy, and Bishop Silas Ng together at Archbishop Rwaje's enthronement service.

The Most Rev. Dr. Onesphore Rwaje was installed Sunday, January 23 as the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda and the first Bishop of the newly created Gasabo Diocese. Thousands attended the four-hour service held in the stadium at Kigali Independent University including religious leaders from neighboring countries, Europe and the US. Archbishop Bernard Ntahoturi of the Province of Burundi preached, Archbishop Rwaje celebrated the Eucharist and Rwanda President Paul Kagame spoke as an honored guest.

TheAM was well represented by Bishop Chuck Murphy, Chairman, along with other bishops, clergy and lay leaders. Bishop Murphy participated in the service, presenting Archbishop Rwaje with a vessel of oil, one of the symbols of his new office.

“It was a genuine celebration that involved not only the Church but also the government who are committed to working together to strengthen their country,” said Bishop Murphy.

Archbishop Rwaje reaffirmed commitment to “the Anglican Mission in the Americas, our outreach in North America and to the ministry of our Primatial Vicar, Bishop Chuck Murphy."

Archbishop Rawje in the midst of the worship service.

The Archbishop also emphasized plans to work with other faiths in fostering peace, fighting poverty and HIV/Aids and also noted his focus on youth participation in the church, saying he would listen to and advise the young people of the Province.

"I feel passionate about helping youth as they choose the kind of work to do in life and starting families as well as providing guidance in daily life," Archbishop Rwaje said. The Archbishop also called Rwanda Anglicans to express and live Christian values daily.

In his speech, President Kagame praised Archbishops Rwaje’s and Kolini’s outstanding commitment to building the Church and improving the lives of the Rwandan people. He also pledged support for the new Archbishop especially in community development.

Archbishop Rwaje was ordained as a Deacon on July 28, 1985 and was ordained Bishop in 1991. He holds a Masters Degree in Theology and Development Studies as well as a doctoral degree in Theology (leadership). He and his wife Josephine have five children.

Posted By: Cynthia P. Brust
Categories: Rwanda