On Saturday, June 7, 2025, the Franciscan Sisters of the Reign of Christ the King welcomed four new members into their congregation.
Two novices made their first vows, while the other two took their perpetual vows, marking a significant milestone in their spiritual journey.
Novices Bertine Nishimwe and Claudine Uwase professed their first vows, formally committing themselves to the Franciscan way of life.
Meanwhile, Sisters Florence Dushimirimana and Marie Jeannette Nikuze pronounced their perpetual vows, signifying their lifelong dedication to the congregation and its mission.
The solemn celebration was graced by the presence of a diverse assembly, including clergy, religious men and women, lay members of the Franciscan family, and relatives of the sisters.
The highlight of the event was a Holy Mass presided over by His Lordship Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa, Bishop of the Diocese of Kabgayi, held at the Parish Church of Kivumu in Kabgayi Diocese.
During the Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa delivered a powerful homily reminding the newly professed sisters of the profound significance of their vocation.
He urged them to embrace their calling as a path of self-giving for the sake of others and for the Church, becoming living witnesses of love, peace, and divine mercy.
“You are the brides of Christ, and this is your sacred mission,” he emphasized.
In his address, Bishop Ntivuguruzwa also called upon all consecrated persons and the faithful at large to radiate the joy that flows from God’s love and compassion.
He encouraged values of friendship, kindness, and mutual forgiveness, so that everyone may find joy and fulfillment in their divine calling.
Representing the global leadership of the Congregation, Sister Mediatrice Uwanyirigira addressed the newly professed sisters with words of encouragement and counsel. She exhorted them to remain steadfast in their spiritual journey.
“Our advice to you, as your elders in religious life, is to keep walking the path with determination and perseverance,” she said.
Echoing the bishop’s sentiments, Sister Mediatrice stressed the importance of cultivating an intimate friendship with Christ, who called them to this life. She reassured them that such a bond would sustain them through all challenges.
“If you befriend the Lord and remain close to Him, nothing will shake your faith or break your spirit. If you love the Lord and make Him your truest companion, I believe you will never stray from your sacred ‘yes’,” she added.
The Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of the Reign of Christ the King was founded in 1836 by Mother Elizabeth in Belgium. From its humble beginnings, the congregation expanded its mission to several countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and Italy.
The congregation was introduced to Rwanda in 1986 and currently operates seven communities across three dioceses: Kabgayi, Butare, and the Archdiocese of Kigali.
Rooted in the values of Saint Francis of Assisi, the mission of the Franciscan Sisters primarily focuses on education and healthcare.
According to Sister Mediatrice, the sisters serve as witnesses of love, peace, and collaboration, with a special dedication to the care of the vulnerable.
In addition to formation and mentorship of aspiring members, the sisters engage in a wide range of ministries, including education, healthcare, maternal and child wellness, nutrition programs, malnutrition prevention, and support for the elderly, the poor, and the marginalized.
