District officials and church leaders in Bugesera district have recognised the leadership of Zion Temple Ntarama for its outstanding contribution in transforming the living conditions of citizens spiritually, socially and economically.
The remarks were made at the end of the week-long event organised by Zion Temple Celebration Centre, Ntarama parish, to celebrate its fifth anniversary as well as launch an annual conference, titled, ‘ In His Dwelling,’ to raise funds to build a new modern church building.
The celebration week featured evangelical and social activities such as door to door evangelism, an open air crusade and charity activities.
In evangelism, a total of 371 souls received Christ, 350 health insurances were provided, 10 families received 300 iron sheets while other needy families received foodstuffs and clothes.
On Saturday, the church conducted a running marathon titled, ‘Run 4 Jesus’ as a way to spread the good news to many people and to mobilize the community, especially young people against drug use and unwanted pregnancies.
Richard Mutabazi, the Mayor of Bugesera district, alongside other local leaders and security organs joined the community in the exercise, where he awarded best performers and stressed that both the government and faith-based organisations work to improve the lives of citizens.
“A healthy citizen becomes a good Christian. When the government and the church work together, it improves the welfare of citizens. Running is a way to bring citizens together for social collaboration,” Mutabazi pointed out.
The Mayor added that the district is delighted to partner with faith-based organisations and the private sector to improve living conditions of all citizens.
Sunday marked the climax of the crusade as more renowned local gospel artistes, including True Promises Ministries, Asaph Music International and Josh Ishimwe, a fast-rising singer tied to Rwandan traditional music style led hundreds of believers into a memorable evening of praise and worship.
Other musicians such as Saxophonist Papy Israel, Bosco Nshuti, alongside other worshipers from other Asaph music branches also graced the event.
Addressing the congregation on Sunday, Angelique Umwali, Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, commended Zion Temple Ntarama and its leadership on the outstanding work they are doing in the community.
“I really thank Pastor Olivier Ndizeye (Senior Pastor of Zion Temple Ntarama) for the wonderful accomplishment and his burden of transforming our community. Personally, I thank him for his hard work towards its transformation. Transforming the spiritual life and living conditions of citizens should go hand in hand,” Umwali said.
“Despite the progress the country has made, we still have needy families that need our care. We can’t achieve our goals when there is drug abuse, domestic conflicts, unwanted pregnancies, violence among others….. We call on all church leaders to join the journey to fight anything that hinder the development of the country,” she added.
The crusade also featured sermons by popular preachers including Apostle Sosthene Serukiza, Pastor Theogene Niyonshuti, Pastor Jerome Muhirwa, Pastor Flori and Pastor Fidele Muhire.
Pastor Ndizeye recognised everyone who supported the church in the preparations of the event as well as raising funds to build a new modern church building.
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