For years we have talked about our relationship with the Anglican Church of Rwanda.  In the last few months this has become even more real as we have had to discern our congregation’s future journey with our Rwandan brothers and sisters.  During this visit Amanda and I had the privilege to be included in a meeting of the cathedral’s clergy, otherwise known in Anglican parlance as the ‘chapter’.  We were welcomed as part of them, as we spent three hours together talking about our individual calls to pastoral ministry, challenges in the work of ministry, and our life together.  It is clear that they have sacrificed much in order to serve, and that the work is at times overwhelming.  While pastoral work in our US context is often challenging and demanding, I am aware that I have not made the kind of sacrifice that is common among Rwandan pastors.

At the end of the three hours it was clear that we are on a common journey, begun years ago, and that we will continue to build upon in our relationship with the Shyira Diocese and with our St. Michael’s partnership.  Pray for these ministers, and the 48 priests of the Diocese, serving over 350 congregations.

Rev. Amanda and Cathedral Pastors