Our Burundi saints rejoiced as their headquarters location became the first church to be dedicated in that country. The dedication took place during a recent visit by John Musgrave, Director of Africa Work. He was joined by Onias Gumbo and Isaac Adigun, the district superintendents for Southern and Eastern Africa (SEAR) and Western and Central Africa (WECA) respectively. The team of three were on a trip to several Southern Africa countries, beginning with South Africa followed by Burundi.

On Thursday, March 26, the team participated in an evangelistic service in Tembisa, and though it was not part of the regular schedule, there were over 175 in attendance. It was led by Edwin Mashau, the South Africa District Superintendent. He set a warm and inviting tone as he welcomed the special guests. 

Both Brothers Onias and Isaac gave short impactful exhortations, which resonated with the congregation. Then a heartfelt solo prepared hearts for the message, which was given by Brother John. Taking his text from Revelation 22:17, he emphasized the free invitation extended to all by the Spirit of God. A good time of prayer followed, and the congregation left spiritually nourished by the uplifting and encouraging service.

On Friday, March 27, the team traveled to Burundi. Upon arriving in Bujumbura, they were greeted by a crowd of smiling saints. Among them were many happy children waving white and blue flags imprinted with “Jesus, the Light of the World.” Three of them were also holding bouquets of flowers, which they presented.

The next day, Saturday, March 28, our first dedication in Burundi took place at the headquarters location in Gasenyi, Bujumbura. The land was purchased here in May of 2019, but funds were not available for building a church. Then, with donations from the local congregation, WECA, and the Portland headquarters, the foundation was laid in April of 2022 and construction began. On September 21 of that same year, the first service was held in the church, though it was not yet completed.

The building is a beautiful U-shaped structure in blue and white, surrounding a courtyard that is accessed by an arched entryway. It contains several rooms, including a sanctuary that seats about 150. When necessary, the courtyard is used to seat another 50.

As nearly 200 gathered for the dedication, children in blue and white shirts bearing our logo stood outside waving their flags and singing a welcome song. A ladies’ choir also sang. Then the ribbon-cutting ceremony took place. Inside, the service began with the children marching into the sanctuary while singing. Then they sang “Give Me Oil in My Lamp.” The ladies’ choir also provided several specials.

The service was led by the pastor and Burundi District Superintendent, Edouard Nimubona, who pioneered our work in Burundi in 2015. His wife, Marcelina, was the featured vocalist, and they both directed the choir. Brother Isaac gave the Scripture reading from 2 Chronicles 6, and following the sermon, Brother Onias gave the dedicatory prayer. It was a beautiful service.

In the evening, another service was held at the church with 120 in attendance, and afterward, there was a tremendous response to the invitation to pray.  

On Palm Sunday, March 29, the day began with a water baptismal service for twelve candidates. Then, about 200 attended Sunday school followed by the devotional service. During the meeting, several traditional hymns were sung in the native language of Kirundi. The Scripture reading was given from Mark 11:1-10, and before the message, the congregation joined in as a “soloist” sang. The sermon was taken from Mark 11:11 and reminded everyone that the Lord comes to visit His house. The congregation was also encouraged that unlike what Jesus found in the Temple at Jerusalem, He is pleased by what goes on in the Burundi church. A good altar service followed.

In the afternoon, the team traveled to Murwi to visit the site of another church project. Construction began in September of 2022 but stalled in January of 2023 when heavy rains caused one wall to collapse. The rectangular brick building was impressive, and is nearly complete, though it is not yet enclosed.

The team of three left Burundi blessed to have spent time with the people there who send their love and prayers to the Portland headquarters.