344 pastor sand evangelists have graduated in religious-related courses and leadership at African College of Theology. The ceremony took place at New Life Bible Church in Kicukiro District on Saturday. The government recently enacted a law which set a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology or any related field as requirement for preachers, something that has pushed churches to work hard to upgrade their pastors who do not meet such requirements. The graduates hold Bachelor of Arts in theology and Christian leadership, diploma in Bible and Theology, certificate in Christian ministry, certificate in Christian ministry, and certificate in discipleship. According to the Rev.Dr Charles Mugisha, Chancellor of African College Theology and the Pastor of New Life Bible Church , educating pastors helps the government to efficiently serve the community in harmony and productively. Mugisha said that churches should participate and respect government policies and also empower the partnership because they all serve one community. “It is a great achievement to have pastors, preachers graduated in religious and leadership-related courses. Now we are able to participate in the government plan to educate church leaders. Churches should have well equipped and competent leaders,” he added. Brandon Barnard, Teaching Pastor at Fellowship Bible Church in the United States of America said: “Rwanda is strong and growing quickly. Having well equipped church leaders and preachers will make the country stronger. Also, the development will strengthen the church in the country in the way of serving the people as they support poor and live in peace”. Pastor VianneyMutsinzi, One of the graduates, said that after four years serving the church, he decided to enroll in the theological school. “I have been serving the church but I would face challenges in leadership. Preaching the word of God needs training and now I confident enough to serve the church productively,” he said. Rev. Geoffrey Gatete, legal representative of Revival Temple in Remera, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree, believes that the knowledge gained will improve leadership in the church as well as sharing what is right to the people instead of misleading them. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
