Rwandan Christians mark Easter

As thousands of kilometres away Pope Francis called upon the world to seek peace and stop the wars ravaging Syria, Iraq, Pakistan, DR Congo, Mali and the Central African Republic, among others, Christians in Rwanda converged to celebrate the death and resurrection of their saviour Jesus Christ.However, like at the Vatican where Pope Francis was holding his first Easter mass since he was installed last month, church leaders called for love, tolerance and peace. Preachers said by the way Jesus lost the beauty and dignity he had in heaven and came on earth, became a man and died for them, Christians should also emulate the love of Jesus and love each other.“A real Christian should resurrect with Jesus, love their relatives and neighbours, have a compassionate heart,” said Fr. Lambert Dusingizimana at Saint Famiille Pastor Zawadi Kajangwe called on Christians to keep praying God so the blood poured should keep saving them and remain in the right way.“Christ conquered death, it is time we enjoyed and celebrated his resurrection,” said Kajangwe. Christians reflectiveChristians who talked to The New Times expressed joy and excitement, saying the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ was a sign of sacrifice.“Easter is a big feast for me as a Christian, it is the time of reflection and remembrance of unbelievable love Jesus loved us, left a dignified place he occupied in the heaven to come to be beaten, nailed and crucified in my stead,” said Mappy Ingabire at Christian in Zion Temple church The Holy Week, the week preceding Easter, was marked by baptisms around the country. At the Vatican, Pope Francis urged his listeners not to be “afraid of God’s surprises,” never to lose confidence during the trials and tribulations of daily life, and, if they have strayed, to let God back into their lives.“Let the risen Christ enter your life, welcome him as a friend; he is life! If up till now you have kept him at a distance, step forward. He will receive you with open arms,” he said, “If you’ve been indifferent, take a risk; you wont be disappointed. If following Him seems difficult, trust Him, be confident that He is close to you, He is with you and He’ll give you the peace you are looking for and the strength to live as He would have you do,” he said.Easter is a Christian festival and holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion.

National

Rwandan Christians mark Easter