Gimme that ol' Rwanda religion
Wednesday, September 30, 2009 at 2:36am

One of the more memorable experiences we've had in Rwanda this month was attending a church service in Gisenyi. Religion is an important part in Rwandans' lives and about 70 percent of the nation is Catholic.

One of the research assistants for the Gishwati Area Conservation Program, Sylvain Nyandwi, invited Des Moines Register reporter Perry Beeman and me to his Pentecostal church service. To our surprise, we were encouraged to sit behind the altar with a dozen church leaders. We were welcomed and Sylvain was asked to introduce us to the congregation. Both Perry and I were then invited to say a few words. After a ‘muraho,’ I thanked them for welcoming us as a guest in their church and the opportunity to worship with them today. It was a most touching moment.

The service included a sermon by two men – that also contained some scripture readings. A man taking bible study sat next to me and translated roughly what was being said. The service had much singing by choirs of various ages. At the end, all the choirs took to the front of the church and sang several numbers. Some of the choir and members of the congregation also got up and danced. It was an uplifting experience for them and me and one I’ll not forget. Afterwards there were many handshakes and hugs from men, women and children. The president of the choir asked us to meet and say a few words to his choir. Quite a morning...and mom would be proud.