Celebrating Holy Week in Rwanda and Colombia

In Rwanda, the Child Hope Center staff and volunteers prepare for Holy Week weeks in advance. They decorate the center with colorful banners, flowers, and traditional Rwandan art to create a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Children participate in Bible studies and prayer sessions, learning about the significance of Jesus' resurrection and its traditions.

On Holy Thursday, the children gather for a particular service to learn how Jesus washed his disciples' feet before the Last Supper. This act of humility and kindness is an essential reminder of the values of the holiday, and the children take it to heart.

Good Friday is a sad day of reflection and prayer, and the Child Hope Center in Rwanda is no exception. Children and staff participate in praying for peace and reconciliation in their community.

 At the Villavicencio child center in Colombia, we celebrate Holy Week to honor the passion, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the SEEDS OF LIFE program, we teach children and parents about the significance of Holy Week through interactive activities.

We set up stations corresponding to each day of Holy Week, beginning with Palm Sunday and concluding on Easter Sunday. These stations educate the audience - children and parents - about daily life. 

On Palm Sunday, Jesus arrived in Jerusalem riding on a donkey, a symbol of humility and was welcomed by the people with branches and singing. Mary, sister of Lazarus, washed Jesus' feet with costly perfume on Monday, and despite the treasurer's complaints, Jesus said to let her prepare him for the tomb.

The activities continued throughout the week until Sunday, when our Lord Jesus Christ rose from death.

Holy Week is a time of community, reflection, and celebration at the Child Hope Centers in Rwanda and Colombia. The staff and volunteers work hard to create a welcoming and meaningful experience for all participating. The children come away with a deeper understanding of their faith, compassion, service, and community values.