The upcoming 29th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda has led to the cancellation of Easter baptisms, a significant event for Christians in the country. The decision was made in response to the national mourning period that will take place from April 7th to 13th to remember the victims of the genocide that took place in 1994.
The Catholic Church, which is the dominant religion in Rwanda, has traditionally celebrated baptisms during the Easter period. However, this year, the church has decided to cancel the event as a sign of respect for the victims of the genocide.
Many Christians in Rwanda have expressed disappointment with the cancellation of the Easter baptisms. For them, the event is a crucial part of their faith and an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to God. However, some have also expressed an understanding of the decision, given the significance of the upcoming commemoration.
Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, the head of the Catholic Church in Rwanda, noted that although it may be difficult to accept this decision, there is an important message to be found in it when viewed through the eyes of faith
The Catholic Church in Rwanda has been accused of being complicit in the genocide, and this cancellation could be seen as a way to distance itself from that past.
This is not the first time that the Catholic Church in Rwanda has had to grapple with its role in the genocide. In 2019, the church in Rwanda apologized for its role in the genocide and acknowledged that some of its members were involved in the killings.
The cancellation of the Easter baptisms is a significant event for the Catholic Church in Rwanda, and it remains to be seen how it will affect the church’s reputation.
However, the decision shows a willingness to acknowledge and confront the past and could potentially lead to healing and reconciliation in the country.
The post Rwanda Catholic Church Cancels Easter Baptisms for Genocide Commemoration first appeared on The African Gazette.