The Archbishop of Kigali, Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, has urged Christians to have strong faith, describing it as the foundation of all aspects of life, including building lasting families and preventing conflicts and wars seen across the world.
He made the call during the Easter Vigil Mass held at Saint Michel Cathedral in Kigali, where Christians gathered to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Similar celebrations took place in Catholic parishes worldwide, as believers joined in the joy of Easter, the most important feast in the Catholic Church.
Faith as the Answer to Global and Social Challenges
In his message, Cardinal Kambanda emphasized that many of today’s global and social problems stem from a lack of faith.
He said, “Faith is the foundation of everything because the problems we see such as broken homes and wars in the world, all evil and cruelty show a lack of faith. Let us be rooted in faith and be true witnesses to Christ in our world.”
He further encouraged Christians to rely on faith as the guiding force in overcoming life’s challenges, noting that without it, humanity cannot address the issues facing society.
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Call for Transformation Through Christ and Rejection of Materialism
The Cardinal also urged believers to allow the Easter celebration to renew them spiritually and strengthen their commitment to love and peace.
He said, “May the risen Christ defeat us from bad habits and hatred, take us out of the darkness of sin and place us in his wonderful light.”
Highlighting the growing influence of materialism, he warned that it is drawing people away from God.
He said, “Now the desire for material things has surpassed the love of God, but a servant of material things cannot serve two masters.”
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Genocide Remembrance and a Call for Peace
Cardinal Kambanda also reflected on the upcoming commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, describing it as a reminder of the consequences of weakened faith and lack of true Christian values.
He said, “Jesus Christ worshipped those we remember and loved and even forgave them. Like him, they were persecuted, abused, hated by people, betrayed and killed. In remembering the suffering that led them on the path of the cross, we will remember that they were our parents, brothers and children who shared our journey of life.”
He added that remembrance should go hand in hand with caring for survivors, who continue to need love and support.
A Final Call for Unity and Peace
The Cardinal concluded by calling on Christians to pray for peace in Rwanda, the region, and the world, urging people to live together in harmony.
