Update 1

Greetings from Rwanda! All is well here as we are enjoying the incredible scenery and beautiful people who call this country home. We have been on the go since we landed in Kigali last Saturday (Or was it Friday? The whole time change thing is confusing). We have been many places and have made many new friends. In Kigali we were able to visit the Genocide Museum and Hotel Rwanda which gave us a better understanding of this country’s devastating past. From Kigali we left for Cyangugu where we were able to see the vibrant Christianity that is alive in the churches there. We had the privilege of witnessing many different savings groups started by Hope International, as well as many bible studies that are using International Cooperating Ministries’ Mini Bible College curriculum. The majority of churches we visited were founded by ICM—the members took great ownership and pride in their church. The other day we made the long trek from Cyangugu to Gahini where we are right now (I believe it was about 10 hours of driving). Here we are spending time with our sister church in Karangazi who we worshipped with this morning. It was an energetic service full of rejoicing and praise to our Lord.

Something that has stood out to each of us on this team is Rwandans’ generous hospitality. We have been welcomed so graciously every place we have gone with singing, dancing, and embracing. The people here are so quick to offer a smile and warm greeting. Our team has experienced the love of Christ through the underserved love the people have shown us here. It has been a blessing to see the unity Christ brings to his body while maintaining its diversity—every tribe, tongue, and nation shall glorify the Lord.

A quick example of this beautiful unity occurred last week while at an ICM church building site. My team was able to work alongside church members who are volunteering their time to construct their church. As we worked on moving dirt for the foundation we learned a song in Kinyarwanda and sang together. After our time at the building site concluded we hopped into our bus and went to a building where the congregation meets while their church is being constructed. Somehow our friends had beat us to the church and were waiting outside for us singing. We joined them in song and dance then they led us into the room where they meet. They proceeded to perform a ceremonial foot-washing, wiping us down from head to toe with colorful fabric. This was one of my favorite moments here thus far. My heart swelled as the Spirit’s presence united me with my brothers and sisters. That day we worked side by side and praised God side by side. Our love for one another was tangible in that moment. I hope to remember this all of my days.

I hope all is well in the States. We look forward to encouraging you with the stories we have shared in here when we see you face to face.

Kait, for the Rwanda Team