Outgoing Anglican Archbishop Laurent Mbanda has described his successor, Manasseh Gahima, as a humble and experienced leader who knows how to relate with people and navigate difficult issues. ALSO READ: Interview: Outgoing Archbishop Mbanda reflects on 8 years leading Anglican church Gahima was elected on September 11 to succeed Mbanda, who has led the Anglican Church of Rwanda since 2018. The 13 bishops voted anonymously after the candidates were assessed against several requirements. The candidates had to be aged between 55 and 60, served as diocesan bishops for at least five years, and fulfil required educational qualifications and demonstrate discipline and good conduct. “Bishop Gahima is a humble person who knows how to relate with people. He has experience in the Church and in schools, and he is someone who can solve issues and work through challenges,” Mbanda said. He added that the 13 bishops prayed before the vote and accepted Gahima’s election as God’s choice. As he prepares to take office, he said Gahima should set his own priorities while building on the work already done. He recommended that he give attention to pastors, children and young people and stay close to people in the Church and the communities they serve. “When an Archbishop comes, he comes with a vision that the Lord may have given him for the institution he is inheriting. You inherit joys, but you also inherit burdens. You inherit people with joys, but also people carrying heavy loads and difficult issues,” Mbanda said. His advice to Gahima is to keep Scripture and Christ at the centre of his leadership. “My brother, keep the Bible at the centre. Keep Christ at the centre. Walk humbly with the Lord, and the Lord will bless your walk,” Mbanda said.
