Father Vidaste Kayisabe, the Secretary General of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, has voiced the concerns of Catholic Bishops regarding recent government decisions affecting faith-based organizations, including the closure of several churches.
In a message published by Kinyamateka, Father Kayisabe stated that 22 parish churches were previously closed but have since fulfilled the required conditions to reopen—yet they remain shut.
He said:
“How long are we expected to be patient? Our souls are hungry and need to be nourished.”
He added that Christians are eager to pray and urged authorities to reconsider decisions that seem increasingly aimed at silencing religious expression.
He emphasized:
“Jesus does not stain the pavement. Even in polished places, we can clean up. Let them allow Jesus to be present in the country. That’s how blessings come to the nation.”
Addressing the temporary closure of the Shrine of Jesus of Divine Mercy, one of the key spiritual sites for Catholics in Rwanda, Father Kayisabe warned that shutting down such places undermines people’s faith and reduces the peace and spiritual confidence they draw from connecting with God.
He said:
“Prayer heals many things. It has great value that people outside of faith cannot understand—they trust only in their own strength without seeing beyond.”
Father Kayisabe made these remarks as religious leaders continue to call for open dialogue between the government and faith communities, to ensure that freedom of worship is preserved while maintaining public safety and shared national interests.
