Visit of the Archbishop of Canterbury

7 Mar 2016 • News

A visit of encouragement by the Archbishop of Canterbury to the Anglican Church of Burundi

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. and Rt. Hon. Justin Welby visited Burundi for a fourth time at the beginning of March with his wife, Mrs. Caroline Welby. The Archbishop told journalists on his arrival at Bujumbura airport that he wanted to support the Church of Burundi and the country during the current period of crisis. “Our presence is to say and remind Christians and the whole people of Burundi that Jesus still loves them despite the hard situation they are passing through”, said Archbishop Justin.

He stressed that the work of reconciliation given to the Church by Jesus Christ is visible and bears fruit in circumstances like the present situation in Burundi.

During his three-day visit Archbishop Justin met with the President of Burundi to pray with him and discuss the importance of reconciliation in the country. He also met other members of the Government.

The Archbishop preached at an ecumenical service held at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Bujumbura attended by all the Bishops of the Anglican Church of Burundi along with a delegation from the World Council of Churches.

Archbishop Justin was especially keen to visit parishes located in areas most affected by the troubles. He visited the parishes of Cibitoke and Ngagara in the northern part of Bujumbura and the more central parish of Nyakabiga. In Cibitoke, an area from which many people have fled and others have been killed or arrested, he spent time hearing testimonies on how people struggled to survive but kept on gathering to pray as best they could. Archbishop Justin said that he was amazed by the commitment of people to pray and to remain strong in their faith. He urged people to keep confidence in the love and healing power of God.

Archbishop Justin also had discussions with students studying theology at Bujumbura Christian University (BCU). He was thanked for his visit by the Vice-chancellor Rev. Canon Donald Werner and for his gift of a book for the library.

During the visit Mrs. Welby was able to spend time with the Mothers’ Union.