“Garuka Ushime” Thanksgiving Event at the UR-Rukara campus

The Presbyterian Student Association (PSA) at the University of Rwanda, College of Education, organized a vibrant thanksgiving event titled “Garuka Ushime”, inspired by Psalm 103:2: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including former students of the University of Rwanda, alumni of the former Kigali Institute of Education (KIE), and current PSA members. The celebration also featured invited guest ministries and church leaders, highlighting unity among Christian student movements within the university. Among the invited guests was the Rhema UBUSHAKEBWIMANA Choir from Remera–Kicukiro Parish under Kigali Presbytery, alongside Pastor Assinapol UWIRAGIYE, the parish leader of Kibungo Parish in Zinga Presbytery. The guest of honour was Rev. Julie KANDEMA, Vice president of Presbyterian Church in Rwanda (EPR).

The event was organized in two main sessions. The morning session consisted of a regular PSA fellowship service, joined by the guest choir and alumni who once actively participated in the association. This time of worship focused on reflection, praise, and gratitude for God’s guidance throughout the students’ academic journey.

The afternoon session featured a lively concert that brought together various Christian student groups from the University of Rwanda, representing different associations. These included RASA (Anglican students), CEP (ADPER students), the Catholic Student Movement, ASA (Adventist students), and other faith-based associations active within the university community. The concert created an atmosphere of unity, worship, and interdenominational fellowship.

In her keynote message, Rev. Julie KANDEMA reflected on the biblical passage from Luke 17:11–19, which recounts the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, with only one returning to give thanks. She emphasized the importance of gratitude in the lives of believers and encouraged students and alumni to remember God’s faithfulness throughout their academic and personal journeys.

She also expressed appreciation to the PSA students for inviting church leaders to share in the celebration and worship with them.

The concert continued with powerful praise and worship sessions led by the participating student groups and the guest choir, creating a dynamic atmosphere of thanksgiving and celebration. A sermon delivered by Pastor Assinapol UWIRAGIYE further reinforced the central theme of gratitude and returning to God with a thankful heart.

The event concluded with offerings from alumni and participants in support of ongoing ministry work at the University of Rwanda, College of Education, Rukara Campus, strengthening the commitment to spiritual growth within the academic community.