The Holy City church in
Gasabo District was closed over its lack of basic infrastructure. Photo:
Courtesy
By Correspondent
According to reports from local
media outlets, over 700 churches in Musanze district alone have been shut down
by local authorities in collaboration with central government officials.
However, the BBC reports a more staggering figure, stating that around 4,000
churches were closed last month for failing to meet the set legal standards.
This follows a similar pattern from 2023 when approximately 4,000 churches were
shut down over health concerns.
The government's crackdown on
churches is not new. Five years ago, around 700 churches faced similar
closures. The Rwandan authorities cited several reasons for these actions. Many
churches were not soundproofed, causing noise disturbances to surrounding
communities. Some operated in open spaces with tented shelters, lacking proper
infrastructure, including dedicated parking slots for congregants' vehicles.
For Pentecostal believers, the
closure of churches is more than a legal issue; it touches the core of their
faith. The Christian faith, particularly within Pentecostalism, emphasizes
humble beginnings and resilience in the face of adversity. As noted in Mark
12:10-11, "The stone the builders rejected has become the
cornerstone." Pentecostals draw strength from scriptures like Ephesians
6:12, which speaks of spiritual warfare against unseen forces.
The belief is that worldly
authorities can impose physical restrictions, but the spiritual battle fought
by believers is beyond the reach of any government. The faithful wield powerful
spiritual weapons: the name of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, the Holy Spirit,
unceasing prayer, and the blood of Jesus. These are seen as mightier than any
earthly power.
Rwanda's decision to shut down
churches raises several important questions. Is it necessary to close places of
worship over issues like noise and infrastructure? In a country where vehicle
ownership is among the lowest in the world, the lack of parking slots should
not be a significant concern. Moreover, requiring pastors to have a degree in
theology seems excessive. Just as in other professions, education does not
start at the degree level.
Instead of closing churches, the
Rwandan government could explore more supportive measures. Encouraging
religious activities and creating avenues for growth can have numerous
benefits. For instance, Christians, particularly Pentecostals, are known for their
prayers for peace and prosperity, which can positively impact the nation.
Additionally, the potential of
religious tourism should not be overlooked. Imagine if Rwanda produced a figure
like the late Nigerian Prophet TB Joshua, who attracted followers from across
the globe. This could boost the tourism sector and create jobs.
The resilience of the Pentecostal
community in Rwanda is a testament to their faith. The Bible in Jeremiah 23:26
speaks of the power of God's word, and Jeremiah 51:20-26 highlights the
strength bestowed upon believers. Matthew 27:51-52 and Acts 16 recount how
divine intervention can cause natural phenomena like earthquakes, illustrating
the unstoppable force of the gospel.
Rwanda's government should consider
more amicable ways to address concerns without stifling religious expression.
As stated in Matthew 10:28, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body
but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both
soul and body in hell."
In conclusion, the closure of churches in Rwanda is a complex issue that requires a balanced approach. Authorities must find ways to address legal and infrastructural concerns while respecting and supporting the spiritual needs of their citizens. Only then can a harmonious relationship between the state and religious communities be achieved.