Apostolic Nunciature to Rwanda celebrates 60 years

On 28 June 2024, the Apostolic Nunciature to Rwanda celebrated the 11th anniversary of Pope Francis' pontificate and the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and Rwanda.

Fr. Fidele Mutabazi - Kigali.

Government officials, led by Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, attended the event. Members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Rwanda were also present.

Human fraternity and peaceful existence

The local Church was represented by some of the country's Bishops who joined Archbishop Arnaldo Catalan, the Apostolic Nuncio to Rwanda, in celebration. Others present were representatives of religious congregations, priests, religious men and women.

The National Anthem of Rwanda and the Pontifical Anthem introduced the session of speeches.

In his remarks, Archbishop Catalan observed that Pope Francis' pontificate is one that promotes human fraternity and peaceful co-existence worldwide.

This human fraternity is visible in Rwanda through pastoral care, which strives to protect the vulnerable, and also through social welfare programmes and projects.

Church's social programmes

Archbishop Catalan praised the excellent relations that have been the hallmark of the Holy See's cooperation with Rwanda over the last 60 years.

"Currently, the Church (in Rwanda) has 3209 schools from nurseries to universities, 180 vocational and technical schools, 43 educational Institutions for the disabled, 20 hospitals, 160 health centres, 55 maternity facilities, 43 centres for older citizens, 69 social centres, and was continuing to build more institutions," said the papal representative.

Government appreciates Church as a partner

Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, praised Pope Francis' drive for human fraternity and peace. He said Rwanda wished to see countries in the region and around the world relating well.

He further thanked the Catholic Church in Rwanda for building quality education and spreading medical services nationwide.

The celebration of the 60th anniversary of Rwanda's relationship with the Holy See were extended into day two of 29 June 2024, the Feast Day of Saints Peter and Paul, a solemnity in the whole Catholic Church.

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