Rwandans have been urged to espouse Christian as well as Rwandan values to shape a good future of the nation.

The call was made by church and local government officials during the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Byumba Anglican Diocese, on Sunday.

Northern Province governor, Jean Claude Musabyimana, who graced the event, asked Christians to remember that the Holy Spirit resides in a healthy body and that Jesus lives in a peaceful and clean home.

He commended the church for its role in development. 

"Religious organisations play an instrumental role in development. They build hospitals, support the needy, educate the people and build houses, among other activities that improve the welfare of the population,” he said.

Byumba Diocese Bishop, Emmanuel Ngendahayo, said that Christian and Rwandan values can help to lay a strong foundation for the future.

"Through mothers and fathers’ unions, we fight violence in households and groom the youth into good future Christians and citizens. We have the responsibility to be a solution to the problems of this world, embracing unity and solidarity,” he said.

"We started at a time when the liberation war was underway. This region was chaotic and it was not easy to operate at the time. Now members, as well as facilities, have increased due to good leadership that makes everyone proud of this country, a gift from God.”

The diocese reflected on its achievements since its establishment in 1991.

Thirty one schools, two hospitals and 1000 savings groups are among the gains the church registered in the sectors of education, health, agriculture and economic development.

Byumba Diocese covers the districts of Gicumbi, Burera, Nyagatare, Rulindo and Gatsibo. It currently consists of 43 parishes with 74,000 members up from 45,000 in 1991.

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