Ever wondered why this church is named after an African saint? The story of Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga in Kigali begins long before its physical structure was erected. It is a story of faith, resilience, and devotion. Let’s step back in time to understand its significance.
Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga, or Parish Charles Lwanga, has a rich history rooted in the evangelization of Rwanda. The parish was officially founded on July 2, 1964. However, the complete dedication to Karoli Lwanga came at the end of 1969. This naming reflects a deep connection to the Ugandan martyrs.
These martyrs, led by Karoli Lwanga, were the first sub-Saharan African saints. Their unwavering faith in the face of persecution deeply inspired the Catholic community in Rwanda. This new parish was put under the care of the Uganda martyrs.
Initially, Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga was part of a group of parishes in Kigali. These included Sainte Famille, Saint Michel, Kabuye, and Kicukiro. Saint Michel was in the city center. The others had large rural sections. Father Roger Depienne from Belgium prepared the parish’s establishment from the former Nyamirambo outstation. He became its first parish priest serving from 1964 to 1980. Later, White Fathers managed it until 2003. In January 2004, Father Gasana Emmanuel became its first Rwandan parish priest.
Over the years, Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga grew significantly. By 1972, it included eight outstations or sub-parishes. These were Nyamirambo, Nyakabanda, Rugarama, Karama, Mwendo, Kimisange, Butamwa, and Burema. In 1980, Butamwa created a ninth one named Mpanga.
The Catholic community expanded dramatically. In 1964, there were 4726 Christians and 933 catechumens among 9222 residents. By 1969, the Catholic population grew to 8623. By 2014, it exceeded 43000. Due to the increasing numbers, a new church was built to replace the original one that had become too small. Bishop Thaddeus Ntihinyurwa blessed the foundation stone on May 20, 2012. Bishop Anthony Kambanda dedicated the new church on November 19, 2016.
On May 17, 2015, Butamwa Parish was formed from Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga. Rogationist priests were assigned to the new parish. It included three outstations, Butamwa, Burema, and Mpanga. After Butamwa Parish was created, Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga retained six outstations. They all were put under the care of the Uganda martyrs. These include Nyamirambo, Nyakabanda, Rugarama, Kimisange, Karama, and Mwendo. Paroisse Nyamirambo celebrated its 50th anniversary on October 24, 2015.
Today, Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga stands as a testament to its vibrant community. It is home to many religious orders including sisters and missionaries. Eleven priests have come from this parish. In June 2021, the Archdiocese of Kigali held the International Eucharistic Congress here. Cardinal Antoine Kambanda emphasized that the Eucharist makes saints. Vice-president Edouard Ndayisaba noted that adoration of the Eucharist is key.
As you stand here, remember that Paroisse Karoli-Lwanga is more than just a building. It embodies faith, community, and the enduring legacy of its patron saint.