Mission Trip Blog - Rwanda 2023

Day 7 By Tina Kelly

It's hard to believe that we are coming to the end of this wonderful Rwandan adventure. This past week has been full of blessings and "God moments" - way too many to recount in this blog. But they are forever written on my heart.

Today we had breakfast and headed off to Sunday church service at the Kimironko Harvest Christian Church, which doubles as the Child Hope Center from Monday through Saturday. We spent the day there yesterday and had an incredible day with the children. I was able to have a joyous reunion and visit with my sponsor child, Brayan, and his mom, Olive, whom I met for the first time last year.

We arrived at church at about 10:00 and were greeted by beautiful voices praising God in song. Friends welcomed us outside, and the children ran up to us for hugs. We were ushered inside and seated at the front of a full church congregation. Three different church choirs led worship, including one group made up entirely of children. I would close my eyes now and again to listen to the beauty of their voices which were made even more powerful by all the voices behind and around me. The people of Rwanda know how to praise God with total abandon. And to top it off, they dance like no one is watching. It's totally inspiring!

Bishop Theo delivered a message with so much enthusiasm that it would have been difficult to look away from the stage. He reminded us that we need to listen to and take our prompting from God as we make decisions for direction in our lives. And when we listen to what God wants for our lives, all we need to do is relax and let Him take control. He will give us all the tools we need to do what He wants us to do. It was a good reminder for me personally that I need to trust God with everything in my life.

At the end of church service we had some time with our sponsor children, and I could give Brayan's mom some fabric I purchased at the market for her. Yesterday I asked her what was one thing that I could do for her because she is an amazing single mom to Brayan and his baby brother, Ivan. She asked for fabric for a new dress, so with the help of a couple of my teammates, we picked out fabric at the market with vibrant blues, red, and cream, as well as a red beaded necklace. When I gave her a gift with a small sum to pay for a seamstress, she told me how happy she was. I hope to see her in her new dress one day.

We eventually had to say our goodbyes, and we headed to a local cafe called Bourbon for a team lunch. In true Rwandan fashion, we finished eating 3 hours later. By now, we are all used to doing things on "Rwandan Time".

If you haven't seen the movie "Hotel Rwanda", it is based on a true story that took place during the 1994 genocide at a hotel up the street from where we are staying. A hotel manager protected hundreds of Tutsi Rwandans from the Hutu who were slaughtering them. After lunch, we were fortunate to visit the actual hotel where this happened and remember how these beautiful people were affected during this horrific period in Rwandan history. To say that we are in amazement of how the Rwandan people live so peacefully and lovingly together in the present day would be an understatement.

It was just another opportunity for us to reflect on a tragedy that was so recent and how this country of Rwandans has overcome it. It is totally evident that God has orchestrated the peace that is here. And our beautiful friends have been so loving and selfless with us. This week has reminded me that this country is now a land of peace, and I can feel it in my soul—total peace.

Mahoro

Day 6 By Kris Thieme

Today felt like a full circle as we visited multiple Child Hope Centers throughout the week, but we finally had the opportunity to visit Kimironko in Kigali. All the centers are unique & special, but it was a blessing to visit the Bishop's home church. You could hear the music as soon as we rolled up in our van. Again they welcomed us into their centers with open hearts, minds & love.

The children performed multiple dances and songs for us, and you could see the joy on their faces as they sang. The joy & love of God spread throughout the room. Our group also had multiple children that they sponsored or someone from back home sponsored, so there were a lot of reunions & also meetings for the first time. Witnessing the meetings, seeing the connections & witnessing the parents having so much appreciation & gratitude solidified exactly what this mission is all about.

We need to continue advocating for these children when we return home. To spread the word & to carry their message. To plant the seeds in all of our family & friends and let them know that there is a BIG need but with a small donation, we truly can change the kids’ lives.

When a child is sponsored, we can help give them hope & our ongoing partnership with Mission Life truly connects us directly with the children. The most remarkable part of these visits is that the children are truly the ones that are giving back to us. I have learned so much from them & feel beyond blessed to have been able to spend time with them. They freely give love & kindness, and they reminded me of what is truly important in life. To know God and share his love with others.

It was sad that this was our last visit, but I know I will be planning my next trip as soon as I get back home. Being around these children & being in Rwanda is very healing. God is good all the time & all the time, God is good.

Day 5 By Sally McDonald

Today (Thursday), we woke up & left the Sunrise Guest House after breakfast at 9 am. Bishop met up with us and brought us to different churches where we were welcomed with dancing, singing, & overwhelming joy. We got to see the classrooms they were starting to build, which was so special.

We then visited the Pastors' house, a little drive from the church to Lake Rweru. It was a beautiful lake, shared with Burundi, which you can see from the shoreline. We saw the boats they use for fishing made out of hallowed trees. And then the Pastor welcomed us into his beautiful home & offered us all Fanta, of course. A staple of Rwanda if you ask me. They also had their own papaya tree growing out back.

The hard part about being in the area was learning that last year, the neighborhood was invaded & many locals were attacked. After visiting with the Pastor, Bishop took us to a church in Batima that was in the process of being built! It was very exciting to see the beginning stages of that. Those in Batima will no longer have to walk miles & miles to church.

Currently, they have a temporary small building that they meet in. I believe Bishop said it accommodates about 30 people. I can't wait to hear how many congregate in the new bigger building. And the Pastor in Batima gifted us bananas!

After going to all the churches & a quick bathroom/ice cream break, it was time for the long haul to Akagera National Park! I slept the entire ride, so I can't say much about how it was. But it was an estimate of 4 hours. We got there around 6 pm when they closed the gate, so our driver almost couldn't leave, but luckily the staff was very accommodating & opened the gate back up for him to drive home.

We ate dinner over the water lit by candlelight with the not-so-distant snorting of Hippos. The dinner was a 10/10. And after dinner, we sat by the fire as a team. Meg & I shared our testimonies which it was scary but rewarding. We all bonded as a team that night. We went to bed around 1 am, even knowing we were waking up for sunrise at 5 am.

It was WORTH IT!!!!

Day 4 by Keith Egan.

The sun rose over Bugesera and slowly warmed what was left of the cool night air. While birds chirped through the trees in the early morning light, we gathered with joyful anticipation of the day ahead and everything God would let us see and experience. Carolina led us in prayer, and then we had a simple but delicious breakfast of African pancake, banana, passion fruit, porridge, and bread and honey.

After breakfast we were ushered onto the bus with Bishop Theo's announcement of "Vamanos," and we were on our way through the already bustling streets of the town. The roads quickly transitioned into rolling hills, becoming increasingly rural as we drove.

The scenery was breathtakingly beautiful, with wide-open vistas dotted with cacti, acacia, and bouganvilla. It was evident, though, that the area was amid a harsh dry season. Field after field that had dried corn stalks and land that could no longer be tilled because it was turning to dust.

The people of this area certainly needed good rain. The bus turned off the main highway onto red dirt roads, and we were treated to an "African massage" with the bumpy drive. The houses along the way were simple red brick buildings, sometimes no more than one room, and occasionally children were in the doorways.

People were walking the road and usually carrying something, more often water jugs, to get to the well that was miles away from their house. Yet every person that saw us smiled and waved. The road was so familiar, the places and faces I had seen just last year were welcoming me back, and it seemed as if I had never left. I felt like I was coming home.

We arrived at the Child Hope Center in Batima, and as the team stepped off the bus, we could hear the beautiful voices of singing children. We were greeted with waving hands and smiling faces as we walked into the center. So many radiant faces and so familiar children that I had held in my heart for months, and a wave of pure joy washed over me knowing we were together again, here now with even more new friends for them to meet.

The Pastor of the church welcomed each of us, and all the children sang again, blessing us with their sweet angelic voices. Then a group of children of different ages stood in front and sang songs in Kinyarwanda. They transitioned into English with sweet worship songs and praises to God that rose through the building. The children and older kids performed traditional dances, and it wasn't long before everyone in the room was dancing with them, including our team, who joined in. Pure joy filled the space as we celebrated along with everyone there.

We sat as the church pastor welcomed us, and then Bishop Theo spoke, telling the story of this church and Batima Child Hope Center. Each person on the team gave introductions to help the Pastor, teachers, children, and parents know the team better, and then we were blessed to serve the children lunch. After lunch, we had a field day with the small children first, then the older children. Squeals and shouts of delight rang out as they ran the obstacle race and cheered on every child. The winners could select prizes from the suitcase we brought, and their eyes lit up as they saw their choices. They were the simplest trinkets, small toys that in the States would be given out as party favors, but to them, they were treasures.

Each child was then given prize bags; they couldn't contain their excitement as they showed off the sunglasses, small toys, and glow bracelets they got. We wrapped up our time with them by giving them popcorn and juice. Our time with the children was overwhelmingly special, and if we could have spent another day with them, it still wouldn't be enough.

We were given a beautiful glimpse of heaven in the open arms of the children of Batima as the Lord tells us in Luke 18:16 to "Let the little children come to Me" and "For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." We said "see you" to our precious little friends and walked down the red dirt road to our next stop.

The team was given a tour of the Pastor's house, a traditional mud brick building that had been a blessing given by the faithful support of believers in NH who share God's heart for the area. The Pastor's wife even showed us her seamstress skills, a much-needed ability in a place where the nearest store could be a day's walk.

After that, we were all back in the bus and rode further on the red dirt roads until we finally pulled into the area of another Harvest Christian Church at Mbyo. Volunteers from the church were digging dirt for use in bricks and taking the bricks they made around the church to a structure in the back where more volunteers were building a new child center, brick by brick.

The Pastor greeted us with mud on his hands and all over his clothes, so our team felt led by the Spirit to lend hands as co-laborers in Christ and we began lifting the heavy bricks to the church members building the structure. It was humbling to know that we now physically had a part in the start of a new place where area children could learn and grow and have hope and a future.

The Pastor told us Murakoze, thank you, for being there and to pray for the work to continue. We waved by from the bus, and as it winded down the road to take us back to Sunrise Guest House, I could scarcely take in how truly wonderful God is to give us such a full day and cover us in His grace as he covered us in the red dirt of this place I love so much.

As the sun began to set in a brilliant blaze, I thanked God for blessing us to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus in many unexpected ways in the heart of Africa, now forever in all our hearts.

Day 3 by Lori Call

On Tuesday, July 18th, our team gathered for breakfast to enjoy a hearty meal of oats, eggs, bread, fruits, and coffee. Suddenly, Bishop Theo exclaimed, "Vámonos!" meaning it was time to board the bus and head to the next Child Hope Center. We swiftly prepared ourselves for the journey.

During our journey to the Nyamata Child Hope Center, we talked about our experiences and observed the locals hurrying to work and school. We witnessed men riding bicycles with large bunches of bananas and sacks of flour, which they intended to sell at the market. The women were equally hardworking, carrying babies on their backs and buckets or baskets of fruit on their heads. We noticed many bicycles, motorcycles, and cars moving in different directions without any traffic patterns, resulting in controlled chaos.

We traveled on a rough road towards the child center as Bishop informed us that this region was among the most impoverished, and the children born here had limited prospects for a bright future. This new child center started to take form less than a year ago but has yet to be able to receive full sponsorship from Mission Life.

During their previous trip with Mission Life in November of last year, the team was saddened by seeing an overcrowded facility filled with young children. Determined to take action, they left with extra funds to give an offering to the ministry. Bishop used this offering to support two teachers for a year, who would care for the 80 children at the facility. Today, we were fortunate enough to visit with those children and teachers.

Beautiful singing voices and the thumping of a drum greeted us. The children ranged from about 3 to 7 years old and were led in song about domestic animal names and the parts of the body. The children were so impressive with their knowledge, and the teachers were so energetic and caring with each child. Two of our team members did a Bible study on serving and what it means to be a helpful member of the community.

We serve because Jesus first served us. They did a short skit on what it looks like to help each other. They then asked the children questions about serving, and their answers were inspiring. At one point in the day I was sitting on the ground with another child about four years old who was eating her cup of porridge, and it was empty. I took the cup to add to the dirty dishes. Before I could get up to put the dish in the dirty dishes bucket another student who was next to me, also about 3 got up out of his seat and took the empty cup to put it in the washing been. He was not even finished eating yet, he saw a need and jumped in; he was serving!

I saw a lot of the children serving each other that day. We handed out crayons and small coloring books to each child. Other children of the same age were helping each other; some helped to open the crayons or helped them turn the page. They were all just sharing in the moment. It was heartwarming to see how much they are already doing the work of Jesus.

This child center in Nyamata is praying and hoping for more sponsors to keep the center open for another year. In November, they need to come up with more money for rent and pay for three teachers. This is something as a team we are going to be working on. It would be such a blessing to make this happen for the children.

Next, we headed to the Gahambe restaurant for a wonderful lunch of chicken and goat kebabs for those brave enough to try them. We had many conversations about our lives and the center's future. Getting to know everyone here, including the amazing interpreters and drivers, has been wonderful.

We could not make this trip without them. After this, the day took a little bit of a somber return. We went to the genocide museum in Nyamata. People took refuge inside of the church from the mass killings that started in 1994 during the genocide. About 10,000 people took refuge in this church but never made it out alive. The group became very quiet after this; we needed time to reflect on what we had heard that had happened to our friends here in Rwanda.

At the Sunrise, we shared a devotional and a meal of rice, potato fries, pasta, chicken, and assorted fruits. We have had so much fun playing games like loaded questions and heads up each night. We never want to go to bed, but morning comes fast.

I am so grateful for the friendships I have formed here that I will continue to have when I get home. However, leaving my new Rwandan friends behind will be hard.

Blessings.

Day 2 By Nicole Padellaro Spano

It is the evening of July 17, 2023, and I am writing this entry to recap our day at Kimisagara. It is truly so hard to put into words how touching this day was to me (and our team).

We woke up to start our day at the Iris Guest House with a delicious breakfast and time together as a team, discussing our feeling so far and our upcoming plans. I'm rooming with Carolina, and it's been such a treat so far getting to know her. I felt like we were having a slumber party last night, staying up until 1am chatting and getting to know one another more. We packed up and left the Iris for a 10am departure to make our way to the Kimisagara Hope Center.

On our drive the center, my stomach had a pit in it from the nervous excitement brewing inside of me. When we hopped out of the bus in the yard of the church, we could hear the children's voices singing inside as they were welcoming us. Stepping inside, hearing their songs bellowing through the church, and seeing them dance instantly captured all of our hearts. Each of the classes presented us with a welcome song and different passages they've learned from the Bible.

After the children welcomed us with their presentations, Kris and Carolina led the children in a Bible study teaching about identity, and we all played a game of Simon Says. During that time, local members of the community cooked lunch for everyone. As a team, we got to serve the children their lunches. Tina asked me, "What do you think so far?" and I literally choked back tears as I told her I couldn't even put into words right now. The moment of pure happiness left me speechless.

We continued the visit by playing a game of musical chairs on an obstacle course and gifting them with special treats (popcorn, juice, a couple of toys, and candy). It is awe-inspiring to see what the teachers and director of the Child Hope Center of Kimisagara are pouring into the children there. It was hard to say goodbye to the center as we parted ways for the next part of our journey.

The sunset sky was glowing from above as we drove out of the city of Kigali and toward the village of Nyamata. The beauty took my breath away and was just another reminder of all of God's goodness and blessings that we get to receive. It was the perfect way to bring this day to a close together.

Day 1 - Change of Plans by Meg Locker

Our team embarked on an unforgettable mission trip to Rwanda, beginning an incredible 24-hour journey on Friday. As they gathered at ONE Church, excitement and anticipation filled the air. It was a unique mix of familiar faces and fresh perspectives, as some of us were fortunate enough to return to Rwanda while others were preparing to experience the country's beauty and resilience for the first time.

Before commencing our expedition, we recognized the importance of unity and sought God's guidance. We joined in heartfelt prayer, seeking blessings for our mission and the people we would encounter. Filled with hope and determination, we boarded a shuttle bus that would transport us to Boston, where our transatlantic journey awaited.

As we journeyed through the night, the landscape transitioned outside our windows, reflecting the vibrant diversity of our team. The excitement was palpable as we shared stories, aspirations, and motivations for joining this mission trip. With each passing mile, our bond grew, nurturing a sense of unity and purpose that would fuel us throughout our time in Rwanda.

Our hearts brimmed with anticipation, knowing that the next few days would be marked by profound moments of connection and exploring unfamiliar territories. The plane ride offered a brief respite, allowing us time to reflect on the opportunities ahead and the transformative experiences that awaited us.

Before we knew it, we were touching down in Kigali, walking off the plane to smell wood-burning fires used for cooking and the silhouette of hills dotted with city lights.

We passed passport control and patiently waited for our luggage, but after hours, we learned that our bags did not make it to Kigali with us, and we had to wait until the following day.

In the parking lot, our hosts, Bishop Theo, his wife Miriam (Madame Bishop), and Patrice welcomed us with open arms & warm embraces. Even the team members visiting for the first time were made at home and part of the family.

After a quick detour for some essentials that didn't make it, toothpaste, toothbrushes & ice cream, we arrived at the IRIS Guesthouse, our accommodation for half the week.

Our original plan for Sunday was to attend church at Kimisagara, one of the locations of a Mission Life Child Hope center, but with a lack of clothing & soap, Bishop Theo had other plans for us.

We visited the Rwandan genocide memorial in the morning, where we learned how in 1994, the Rwandan people turned on each other, and nearly 800,000 Rwandans died over 100 days. Rwanda faced true devastation 29 short years ago, but at the same time, the community has not forgotten and has been able to forgive and, as a Nation, have moved forward to rebuild their communities collectively.

From there, we enjoyed a team lunch at Camellia, a restaurant similar to "Panera Bread" with coffee, sandwiches, and soup. And Bishop brought us to the market to purchase water for the week, and some women picked out the fabric and got measured to have the local women make traditional Rwandan dresses. This place was quite the experience as the team witnessed what a true "barter" style market is about.

Now, one more stop at the airport to pick up our luggage and organize our supplies for tomorrow's Field work & Bible Study at the Child Hope Center in Kimisagara, Kigali.

To say our journey to get here was eventful is an understatement, but we are so happy to be home & the week has only just begun.

Stay tuned as we share the captivating stories, heartfelt encounters, and the transformative journey that unfolded during our time in Rwanda. Our mission is just beginning, and we invite you to embark on this extraordinary adventure with us. Join us as we explore Rwanda's remarkable tapestry of hope, resilience, and love, one step at a time.