EPR Celebrates 30 Years of UEM: Sharing Mission, Embracing Diversity

The Presbyterian Church in Rwanda (EPR) joined churches across the United Evangelical Mission (UEM) in celebrating its 30th anniversary under the theme “Sharing Mission, Embracing Diversity.” The celebration marks three decades of partnership and shared mission since UEM took its present international form in 1996, when churches from Africa, Asia, and Germany came together as an equal communion of churches, with shared participation in leadership and decision-making.

As a UEM member church, EPR marked the anniversary through celebrations held across its parishes throughout Rwanda. The gatherings brought together church leaders, congregations for worship, fellowship, reflection, and thanksgiving for the journey of partnership over the past three decades.

The celebrations highlighted the fortune of diversity within the global Church and the importance of working together in God’s mission. For EPR, the anniversary was also an opportunity to reflect its commitment to shared mission, solidarity, inclusion, and service to communities.

In her remarks, the Vice President of EPR, Rev. Julie Kandema, reaffirmed that EPR is an integral member of UEM, enjoying the same rights and responsibilities as all other members. She said the 30th anniversary reminds members that partnership and mutual support are key to achieving shared goals. She also highlighted that UEM brings together churches and organizations from diverse backgrounds, enabling them to learn from one another, share experiences, and strengthen their common mission through unity and collaboration.

The 30th anniversary reminds EPR and other UEM members that their differences can become strengths when united by a common faith and purpose.

We are UEM.

We are UEM.