ARCHDIOCESE OF KIGALI CELEBRATES ITS 50TH JUBILEE

The Archdiocese of Kigali, on 18 July 2026, celebrated the 50th Jubilee of its establishment in relation to the Sacrament of Holy Orders (1976–2026). The celebration took place during a Holy Mass presided over by the Archbishop of Kigali, His Eminence Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, at Sainte Famille Parish. During the Mass, he ordained 11 deacons to the priesthood and conferred the diaconate on 9 seminarians (fratres). In addition, three priests celebrated the 50th anniversary of their priestly ordination, while five priests celebrated the 25th anniversary of their ordination.

In his homily, Archbishop Antoine Cardinal Kambanda explained that Jesus Christ is the Eternal High Priest, and that the priesthood is a gift received through His grace.

"The priesthood belongs to Jesus. He is the Eternal High Priest who allows us to share in His priesthood. It is a gift freely given by His grace, not a reward for what we have done. Rather, it is the free gift of the Lord, who chooses whom He wills, when He wills, where He wills, and in the manner He wills. That is why we are gathered here today to give thanks to the Lord. As He says, 'You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear much fruits.'"

On behalf of the leadership of Nyarugenge District, Mr. Ingangare Alexis, the Executive Administrator of the District, expressed his gratitude for the significant contribution the Archdiocese of Kigali has made to the development of both the district and the country as a whole. He noted that over the past 50 years, the Catholic Church has been a strong partner of the Government in improving the well-being of citizens through education, healthcare, support for vulnerable people, family development, the promotion of peace, unity and resilience, and the cultivation of values that help build responsible citizens.

He said:"The Archdiocese of Kigali and us share one common objective: serving the people. Although each institution has its own responsibilities, we are united by the goal of building a peaceful society that enjoys good health, justice, cooperation, and sustainable development. This is why our partnership continues to be reflected in various initiatives aimed at improving people's lives, including campaigns on hygiene and sanitation, combating malnutrition, caring for young people, supporting vulnerable citizens, and encouraging public participation in national development programmes."