Worshippers across Kigali welcomed the new year with prayers and messages of hope, as faith leaders encouraged worshippers to reflect on the past year, give thanks, and enter 2026 with faith, positivity, and God-centered goals. “Your coming here to pray does not mean that you had nothing else to do; rather, it shows that you chose not to be among those who give up when challenges arise,” Father Innocent Consolateur of Saint-Michel Cathedral told Christians who attended mass on January 1. ALSO READ: Messages of peace, hope and faith as believers welcome 2026 He reminded worshippers that all blessings come from God and that they should seek Him in all their plans. “In recent times, things that destroy families have increased, and separation is becoming more common than unity among married couples. Be careful and stay away from such things this year,” he added. At the Anglican Church of Rwanda, Remera Parish, Reverend Emmanuel Karegyesa encouraged Christians to enter the new year with faith and hope. “As you cross into 2026, do so believing that God is creating something new,” he said. He encouraged worshippers to pursue their dreams and trust that all things are possible with God. He also reminded Christians to remain patient and positive, assuring them that greater things lie ahead. “As Christians, you should also set goals with God in mind,” he added. Similarly, a preacher at ADEPR Nyarugenge Church said that simply being alive at the start of the year is a reason to be grateful. ALSO READ: Rwandans usher in the New Year with hope, reflection “From January until now, the fact that we are still breathing is something to be thankful for. God has walked with us, and He will continue to walk with us in the new year,” he said. He encouraged Christians to begin 2026 with faith and a positive mindset, saying: “Enter this year with God and remain positive, because there is so much that God has in store for you.” For many worshippers, starting the new year in church is a moment to reflect and express gratitude. Josephine Dushime, a member at ADEPR, said starting the year in church is important as a way of thanking God. “I went through a lot this past year, but God protected me. I also graduated from Mount Kenya University, which is a big milestone for me. I felt it was necessary to come to church and thank God,” Dushime said. Alex Iyakaremye, a Christian at Saint-Michel Cathedral, echoed the message of gratitude, saying that the beginning of the year is also a time for reflection and new planning. “There is a lot I want to achieve this year, and I know I cannot do it on my own. That is why I came to ask Jesus Christ to guide me,” Iyakaremye said.
