The Catholic Church has laid a foundation stone for the construction of a unity and reconciliation centre in Rusizi District, in honour of late Father Ubald Rugirangoga, who died in 2021. ALSO READ: Celebrated priest Ubald Rugirangoga dies at 65 The centre, which will be built on Ibanga ry’amahoro hill, is intended to promote unity, healing and social cohesion. The launch took place on January 7 in the Diocese of Cyangugu, coinciding with the fifth commemoration of the priest, who is buried on the same hill. The centre is estimated to cost $300,000, according to the church. At least $150,000 has already been secured. Father Ubald Rugirangoga, a renowned priest, died in in January 2021, in Utah, United States, from respiratory complications. He was the Director of the Centre of the Secret of Peace in Nkanka Parish, Rusizi District. Bishop Eduard Sinayobye of Cyangugu Diocese praised Father Ubald for his dedication to fostering unity and reconciliation and for his work praying for and healing the sick. “A big sculpture will be at the entrance of the centre to honour his legacy,” Sinabyobye said after laying the foundation stone. The sculpture now stands on the hill named ‘Ibanga ry'Amahoro’ (the secret of peace) was crafted by Father Leszek Jan Czelusniak, a Polish priest currently based in Kibeho. ALSO READ: Believers hail Father Ubald Rugirangoga's legacy as statue honouring late cleric is unveiled The late priest was particularly noted for leading prayers and seminars that encouraged perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to seek forgiveness, and survivors to forgive, as part of the healing process. “Father Ubald reconciled Genocide perpetrators and survivors,” said Tharcisse Uhoraningoga, a member of the mentors’ commission established by Father Ubald in Mushaka Parish in 2006 to support reconciliation efforts. “Reconciliation seemed impossible in the aftermath of the Genocide. He was an outstanding champion of peace, reconciliation and resilience. When he was in Mushaka Parish, survivors forgave perpetrators after healing processes. Some married each other, and others became godparents at baptisms.” ALSO READ: First Lady lauds Rusizi church on reconciliation Jean Bosco Ntibitura, Governor of the Western Province, said Father Ubald’s legacy of love, peace and reconciliation would help society sustain the culture of forgiveness. “His deeds set an example for leaders, clergy, Christians, and all Rwandans, showing that forgiveness and resilience are the path forward in a country still healing from the Genocide against the Tutsi,” Ntibitura said. In 2015, Father Ubald was decorated with the Umurinzi w’Igihango awar by Unity Club-Intwararumuri, for his peace and reconciliation initiative.
