As the world readies to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, churches in the country are busy with preparations to make this sacred occasion meaningful. In Kigali and other parts of the country, church grounds are adorned with dazzling lights and nativity displays to orchestrating heartfelt spiritual events, all capturing the joy and solemnity of the season. ALSO READ: Recollections of Christmases past: why I am sharing beef with a neighbour At Stella Maris Parish in Gisenyi Sector, in Rubavu District, preparations began with a transformation of the church’s exterior, which is now illuminated with glowing Christmas lights, and is adorned with Christmas trees. Plans are underway for evening gatherings starting at 5 pm and 7 pm on Christmas Eve, leading into a schedule of services on Christmas Day. Father Jean Nepomuscene Maliyamungu Kwizera, who oversees Stella Maris, shared insights into their plans. “We have arranged multiple gatherings to accommodate everyone, especially considering that some churches are still closed,” he explained. ALSO READ: Over 5,600 churches shut down over non-compliance “These services will include baptisms to welcome children into the faith, celebrating the birth of baby Jesus alongside them,” he said. Stella Maris, which has a capacity of 500 worshippers per gathering, is expecting a larger-than-usual turnout due to the holiday spirit. On Christmas Day, the parish will host five programmes at different times—7 am, 9 am, 11 am, and additional sessions for French speakers and evening attendees. “Normally, we have a single Sunday programme, but for Christmas, we extend our schedule to ensure everyone can participate,” Father Kwizera said. At New Life Bible Church in Kicukiro, Kigali, Pastor Chrispine Banda Katiyi emphasized the dynamic and community-centred nature of their celebrations. “Tonight [Christmas eve], we begin with Christmas carols, followed by songs, a sermonette, and a celebration. Tomorrow, we’ll hold two special services instead of our usual three, allowing families time to celebrate together,” he said. The church planned for services in English and bilingual formats, with separate activities for children and teenagers. The first Christmas service at New Life will start at 9 am, followed by Baptism at 10 am, and the concluding service starts at 11 am. Reflecting on the church’s preparations, Pastor Banda said, “Christmas is a time for people to open their hearts to the word of God. Our message centers on the Savior’s birth and its transformative power,” ALSO READ: Kigali businesses look to cash in on Christmas fever Rogers Rukundo, the Pastor of City Church, which operates across two locations, Nyamata in Bugesera and in Kigali, highlighted the theme of “joy to the world” in their celebrations. “The birth of Jesus Christ brings joy into a world often filled with chaos, trauma, and sadness. This is a season of new hope, a reminder that darkness no longer reigns,” Rukundo said. City Church created an inviting atmosphere with music and decorations, ready to welcome regular attendees and those visiting the church for the first time. “Our services will be shorter this year to give people time to celebrate with their families,” Rukundo explained. “But we’re keeping the message clear and powerful: the birth of Jesus brings new joy and hope to our lives,”
