As Rwanda continues its 100 days of commemoration for the lives of the Tutsi who were killed in 1994, on May 11, 2025, the Union des Églises Baptiste au Rwanda (UEBR), Kigali parish, paid tribute to honor the pastors, evangelists, and church members who were killed during the genocide against the Tutsi.
The event was graced by Reverend Thomas Murwanshaka, the legal representative of UEBR, who emphasized the vital importance of unity among Christians. He reflected on the heartbreaking reality that many who lost their lives were killed by their own neighbors, an act that starkly contradicts the core values of Christianity.
“As the Bible says, ‘Do not kill,’ yet some individuals turned away from this sacred command, choosing instead to adopt a path of evil, leading to the deaths of their brothers and sisters in Christ,” he remarked.
This occasion served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for reconciliation and harmony within the community. Reverend Murwanshaka called upon the congregation, particularly church members, to prioritize love and compassion for one another.
The event took place at the Kigali Parish headquarters and was attended by the families of the victims, their friends, and the general congregation, including youth. After the event, they visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial site, where they deepened their understanding of the tragic history of the genocide.
To date, 20 individuals have been identified as part of the UEBR Kigali parish who served during that tragic time. Efforts continue to uncover more names and gather additional information about the victims.
The leadership of UEBR has committed to providing ongoing support to the families of those who were lost, ensuring that they are not forgotten and that their needs are met in every possible way.