The Anglican Church, Giposoro Parish, in Kigali’s capital, had a send-off ceremony for its Senior Pastor, Antoine Rutayisire, who retired from his duties yesterday.
“I am retiring from pastoral duties in order to be closer to my family, but I will continue to preach the Word of God.” So, we’re still together,” stated Pastor Rutayisire.
Dr. Laurent Mbanda, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda, praised Pastor Rutayisire’s dedication not only to teaching the Word of God, but also to advancing the church’s social-development programs, such as the reconstruction of the parish church and schools.
Usta Kayitesi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Governance Board, was not far from this. She stated that Pastor Rutayisire has been crucial in teaching the Word of God while also addressing neighborhood issues.
“You can’t talk about God without being concerned about the life of society, drawing people out of poverty.” “Doing the Lord’s work entails being aware of Rwandan citizens’ problems,” she explained.
Rutayisire, Doctor of Theology, served his church in a variety of capacities, notably as pastor of Saint Etienne Parish in Biryogo from 2008 until his relocation to Giporoso Parish in 2012.
Between 2002 and 2011, Rutayisire was also the head of the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission, where he made a significant contribution to uniting Rwandans via his own testimony, preaching of asking for and giving pardon, and other activities.
Pastors and bishops in the Anglican church have a retirement age of 65 years.
