The Archbishop of Kigali Archdiocese, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, called on parents to be present in their children's lives, teaching them godly values and guiding them on the right path.
He was speaking at the Christmas Eve mass at St Michael Cathedral, the Archdiocese of Kigali, on December 24, where hundreds of believers gathered to pray and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
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Cardinal Kambanda said that Christmas is a day of great joy for all people because it’s an expression of God’s love who sent his son, Jesus who is the source of hope and peace for believers in such times when the world is faced with many challenges including wars, conflicts, poverty, and unemployment among others.
He called on the participants to "walk in the light of God and live with gentleness, justice, and godliness while shunning away from the lust of the world that causes disobedience to God.”
Furthermore, he emphasized that parents should remember to be present in the upbringing of their children while instilling in them the right moral values and walking in God’s light.
"Parents, raise your children with enthusiasm, train them to love and respect God, know what our children are busy with, what they are taught in schools, and on social media to avoid being surprised by any unfortunate turnout of events in the future,” he said.
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He also delivered a message on the birth of Jesus and how it was foretold by prophets in the Bible, stating that people ought to move from the darkness and live in a brotherly manner of love, peace and tolerance.
"I praise God because he loved us so much. Brothers and sisters, if we know God&039;s great love for us, we will not dare to sin against God.”
He concluded by urging the participants to share the good news of Christmas in their homes, neighborhoods and comfort those who are facing different problems and share the hope that comes with God’s love.
Christmas celebration is highly esteemed among believers who attend faith-based gatherings and a time of bonding in families. It is also a merry season for many.