As Rwandans continue to observe the seven days of mourning to mark the 29th commemoration of 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, clerics have comforted the broken hearts of genocide survivors and asked everyone to pray for the country as it strives for unity and reconciliation. ALSO READ: 29 years later, Rwanda remembers Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kigali, Rev. Nathan Amooti Rusengo said the two tragic events have similarities because Jesus was betrayed and killed just like how the Tutsi were also, hated, betrayed and killed by their friends as well as those who were charged with keeping them safe. “Jesus had last supper with disciples and was betrayed and killed. 1994 was the period of fear, sorrow when Tutsi were in trouble and no one was listening to them. Like the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Rwandans have also resurrected. Genocide survivors’ resurrection means resurrection in quality of life, resurrection of seeds of hope,” he said. He reiterated that commemoration of 1994 genocide against the Tutsi implies a lot. “During commemoration period, we have to remember our loved ones but we must have hope of resurrection. Genocide survivors must be hopeful as they passed through difficult times as those of Jesus Christ. Children who survived are thriving and are promising seeds of hope. They have studied and they are available to build a bright future for the country,” Rusengo added. Apostle Paul Gitwaza, the Senior Pastor of Zion Temple Celebration Center also sent messages of comfort to genocide survivors. ALSO READ: Last generation of Genocide orphans needs everyone’s help “This is the 29th commemoration of 1994 genocide committed against the Tutsi. To those that live in Rwanda and abroad, may be the peace and comfort from God be with youth during this tough time of commemoration,” he said. Gitwaza called for support to genocide orphans, widows and survivors who lost people and their properties. “Genocide survivors should strive for their development, resilience and hopeful future. Unity, reconciliation and love should be the purposes of our life. Be strong as we unite, renew and remember. May God strengthen the broken hearts of Rwandans,” he consoled genocide survivors. ALSO READ: Clerics send messages of hope as Rwandans celebrate Easter The Archbishop of Kigali, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, in an interview with The New Times delivered messages of hope and shed light on the cancellation of Easter baptisms due to the 29th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi. ALSO READ: Cardinal Kambanda's Easter message of hope, clarity on why baptisms were cancelled Kambanda explained that during this period of commemoration, feasts cannot be held, and therefore, baptisms during Easter cannot be conducted. The Mufti of Rwanda Sheikh Salim Hitimana reminded Rwandans and the world that the sacrifice of the RPA/F in stopping the Genocide Against the Tutsi should be a lesson for everyone. “They liberated Rwandans. As the Holy Quran says people should stand up to save the weak, men, women and children facing injustice in the country of enemies. We remember and pray for victims of genocide against the Tutsi. We pray for relentless unity among Rwandans and strength to fight against divisionism to ensure never again genocide.”
