American evangelist and author Pastor Rick Warren has said that Rwanda is small in size but very large in its leadership, legacy, and Rwandans should feel blessed to have a good team of leaders who work for the country’s development.
Warren made the remarks on August 18, during the Rwanda “Shima Imana” (thank God)- an annual national festival, prepared organized by Christian churches in Rwanda, operating in unity and acting as one Body of Christ.
“Leaders of Rwanda are Great men and women. They protect your freedom, promote prosperity for all. They don’t give up even amidst critics. This is a blessing for the country” Warren said.
The pastor also gave various leadership seminars to local government leaders on how to gain and use influence appropriately to change the community and to serve God.
Warren also brought along with him over 100 leaders from 30 African nations as well as Russia, China, India and the U.S.
“I want them to see what is happening in this country and to see the growth, development and progress that has been made, in both this nation and its churches as we prepare for the 2015 gathering.” He said.
In his thanksgiving message, Pastor Rick Warren said: “I have been to Rwanda many times but this is by far my most important trip.”
“Rwanda, Shima Imana!” 2014, was a moment for people to meditate on the past, learn from the history, condemn the dreadful acts committed in the past and repair what is possible to fix, and a moment to mobilise Rwandans to thank God for the progress made in the country and in the Church so far,
The festival was organised by Christian Churches and umbrellas in Rwanda in coordination with Rwanda Purpose Driven Ministries/ P.E.A.C.E Plan
The Rwandan Local church leaders asked for forgiveness on behalf of the church from the Rwandans and genocide victims for what happened in 1994 and their failure to use their influence to stop the tragedy.