Why Prayers at Jesus of Divine Mercy in Ruhango Were Suspended: Cardinal Kambanda Explains the Safety Concerns

His Eminence Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, the Archbishop of Kigali and President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, spoke to the media regarding the decision to suspend the prayer gatherings at Jesus of Divine Mercy in Ruhango. He explained that the decision was made based on concerns for the safety of worshippers.

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In the interview, which took place upon his return from Rome where he had attended the funeral of Pope Francis and participated in the election of Pope Leo XIV Cardinal Kambanda said he had just learned about the decision and was still investigating the reasons behind it.

“I saw the message when I turned on my phone after disembarking the plane. I still don’t know exactly what happened. I need to speak with those who handled the matter to understand the full story,” he said.

Cardinal Kambanda noted that there might have been an incident that raised safety concerns, making it essential to first ensure better protection for the people who gather there to pray.

Based on this information, he clarified that the intention behind the suspension was not to ban prayer but to ensure it is conducted in a safe environment.

 “Security is important in prayer. If someone were to get injured or die, it would be a tragedy. Prayer itself is not the problem; the issue is the safety of the people.”

The Cardinal also urged Christians to avoid misleading practices in prayer, as such misguidance has previously led to similar decisions being made.

 “Prayer requires spiritual awareness and discernment. While prayer is good, we’ve seen some people misuse it. We need to be educated and pray in the right way.”

He pointed out that past incidents of religious misguidance have forced the government to intervene, such as people praying in caves and becoming ill, scams disguised as worship, and even acts of terror committed within churches. These, he said, are the real issues that need collective correction.

“I don’t think anyone says prayer is bad. But when it’s misused, we must separate the wheat from the chaff.”

A letter from the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), dated May 17, 2025, addressed to the Bishop of the Diocese of Kabgayi, announced the temporary suspension of the monthly and annual prayer gatherings at Jesus of Divine Mercy in Ruhango. The letter cited concerns that the site did not meet the necessary safety and tranquility standards for such events. The gatherings were suspended until further notice, pending implementation of measures that will guarantee the safety of worshippers.

The last prayer gathering at Ruhango took place on April 27, 2025, and was attended by over 200,000 people.

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