The Light of Hope in Rwanda
Renewal, faith, and empowerment in a healing nation
Rwanda, a nation with a tragic past, now stands on its feet—healing its wounds and rebuilding the lives of its people. Along this journey, Orthodoxy, with its profoundly human and peaceful spirit, has come to embrace, support, and inspire.
Our mission in Rwanda began with a simple yet bold dream: to build spiritual bridges and offer people the tools to move forward independently. We didn’t come to offer charity—we came to offer hope, faith, and opportunity.
1
The First Orthodox Church in Rwanda
A historic moment – A home for faith and unity
In 2012, we helped establish the first Orthodox Church in Rwanda—a deeply moving and historic event. For the first time in a country marked by violence and division, a refuge of prayer and reconciliation was built.
Since then, with the support of generous friends from Greece and abroad, the Orthodox Church in the region has grown steadily.
2
His Eminence Innocent – Shepherd and Servant
Bishop Innocent of Burundi and Rwanda is a bright, humble figure with tireless missionary zeal. In just five years, he has:
-
Established 15 Orthodox communities
-
Built 8 churches
-
Taught the faith with love and simplicity
-
Organised local projects that uplift both spirit and daily life
His work goes beyond spirituality. It focuses on real needs: how people will eat, work, and support their children.
3
“Help for Help” Programme
Empowerment, not dependence
In 2014, we launched the Help for Help programme, based on one core idea: to give people the means to support themselves. Not to remain dependent, but to stand on their own feet.
Our approach is participatory and respectful. We visited communities, listened to their concerns, and found solutions together.
Examples of our actions:
-
Rented farmland for growing mushrooms, maize, beans, and cassava—essential food and trade items.
-
Donated sewing machines to women, enabling them to create clothes for their communities and start small businesses.
-
Provided livestock (chickens, goats), offering both food and a source of income.
-
Supported the formation of work groups, where people collaborate and share their harvests—strengthening social bonds and solidarity.
4
Small Communities, Big Impact
The communities we support in Rwanda share one remarkable trait: they function collectively, with a spirit of cooperation and mutual support. Every success belongs to everyone.
In each village, we now see:
-
Children in clean clothes, smiling
-
Women sewing uniforms or selling their handmade goods
-
Farmers tending their own land
-
Churches filled on Sundays with prayer, chants, and hope
This is the Rwanda we witness: a nation healing step by step, with faith, labour, and solidarity.
5
Testimony from the Community
"They didn’t just bring us food. They brought us the joy of producing for ourselves. Of supporting our children. Of feeling that we can build a future with our own hands."
6
What Makes Our Mission in Rwanda Unique?
Because it unites faith with action. Belief with daily reality. It doesn’t stop at prayer—it continues into work, self-reliance, and dignity.
And all of it is done with deep respect for the culture, identity, and soul of every person we meet.
7
How You Can Help
-
Sponsor a sewing machine or tools for the community
-
Support land rental, seed purchasing, or livestock donations
-
Help build churches or community centres
-
Share Rwanda’s story—carry its voice to others
