by Katie Prudek
I’ve now completed the rite of passage that is a Rwandan church service. Jay left the Bishop’s house bright and early yesterday to preach at the cathedral’s English service, before the rest of us had even come down for breakfast. Chantal and I dropped Amanda off to preach at St. Michael’s (Sonrise School’s chapel, and our sister church), and I joined “Mama Bishop” for the Kinyarwanda service – which was definitely the main event of the day.
We’re all Anglicans, so it was beautiful to see points of connection between our liturgies. In fact, the service follows virtually the same order as ours at Redeemer, with one difference being a looser hold on time. Even though Jay kept his sermon under half an hour, he didn’t even begin to preach until two hours into the service. Time here is less about linear order and punctuality, and more about relationships and presence.
Sunday in Rwanda feels like the culmination of everyone’s energy. People dress in their best clothes and most vibrant colors. Pastors who are soft spoken and quiet during the week boom out loud prayers in a strong voice. The enthusiasm of 1300 people in the cathedral singing along with four different choirs seemed to be contagious – Jay preached in a way that you’ll probably only ever hear if you come to Rwanda. (Yes, that was a strong hint intended for you.)
The high point of the service for me was receiving Eucharist. We came and knelt on the steps and received the bread from Canon Jay and the wine from Bishop Mbanda. I began to weep as we sat back down. What a mystery and a gift that God transcends cultures – that we are washed in Christ’s blood, invited to eat at his table, and made a part of his family, whether I am an attorney on the north shore of Chicago or a farmer on the volcanic hillsides of northern Rwanda. It’s the same bread and wine, it’s the same grace, whether or not I understand the particular words being spoken. If I am in a valley of pain or a peak of joy (or both), Christ is enough. He is always enough. Hallelujah! Imana shimwe!
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist with volcanic mountains behind
Leave A Comment