KIGALI - Bishop Louis Muvunyi, was, yesterday, consecrated as the next Anglican Bishop of Kigali Diocese at a colourful event that was attended by all members of the Rwandan Protestant Council and top government officials.

Munvunyi, who has been the principal of Kigali Anglican Theological College replaces, Emmanuel Kolini, who retired at the age of 65, as required by the Canterbury constitution.

Reading out the Bishop’s Charge, Muvunyi congratulated his predecessor for his achievements and vowed to carry on the cross to spur the church further.

"I will emphasize the expansion of the Anglican church in Rwanda through construction of new churches and preaching the gospel of God,” Muvunyi said.

"We will continue promoting unity and reconciliation among Rwandans, fight against HIV/Aids and poverty as well as promoting education and empowering youth.”

The outgoing bishop, Kolini, thanked the team he worked with for the time he spent in office and attributed much of his success to his wife and children.

"Much has been done but we couldn’t accomplish everything; whatever is remaining will be accomplished by Muvunyi,” he said.

Kolini noted that he worked in many countries serving God and it was always his wish to retire from his country, Rwanda.

During the function, Local Government Minister, James Musoni, acknowledged Kolini’s achievements and described him as a great man who contributed greatly to the reconstruction of Rwanda.

"Kolini took over the Anglican church at a critical time when there were issues within the church, mistrust amongst Christians and between the church and the government,” said Musoni.

He hastened to add that Kolini took it up himself to reunite the church and create better relations between the church and government.”

"The Anglican Church of Rwanda is one of the government’s partners in development and has played a significant role in this regard,” said Musoni.

To the new bishop, Musoni pledged government support and build on the thriving relationship to develop not only members of the church, but also the entire population of the country.

He noted that the government is optimistic Muvunyi will deliver effectively like his predecessor and requested him to continue supporting government programmes.

Muvunyi holds a diploma in theology from Mwanza Bible College, Bachelors Degree in Theology from Mukono Christian University in Uganda and a Masters Degree from the International Christian College in Scotland.

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