Today, January 3, 2021, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Jered KALIMBA, Bishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda, Shyogwe Diocese announced the retirement of Rev. Canon Emmanuel GASANA. The ceremonies took place at Gasharu Parish for which he had been in charge since 2017.
Rev. Canon Gasana Emmanuel was baptized in 1966 and confirmed in 1969. Despite this, he avows that he did not receive Jesus-Christ as Lord and Savior until 1977. Since that year, he has become an evangelist until his pastoral ordination.
Rev. Canon Emmanuel has served the Lord in the Anglican Church of Rwanda with gladness in Butare and Shyogwe Dioceses for 37 years. He began his pastoral ministry in Rusatira Parish of Butare Diocese in 1984. He worked there for 5 years (1984-1989). After Rusatira, he has worked tirelessly, faithfully, and with great compassion for God’s flock in Shyogwe Diocese as Parish Priest (in Nyamagana Parish-9 years; Shyogwe Parish-10 years; Gasharu-3 Years; etc.) Rev. Canon Gasana Emmanuel has been also Archdeacon, Mission Coordinator, Diocesan Administrator; etc.
Canon Emmanuel has been an enormous gift to the entire Anglican Church of Rwanda. His investment in the lives of others has truly made a difference, and he has given hope and encouragement to so many. He has set humility, prayer, listening to scripture and the mission of God at the heart of his pastoral ministry. 
Rev. Canon Emmanuel and his wife Beatrice KAYIRERE are known and held in great affection across Shyogwe Diocese. Different people who spoke about him today emphasized the following values: humility, love, perseverance, truth, determination, courage, etc. Speaking on behalf of the Christians of Gasharu Parish, their representative said: “Rev Canon Emmanuel possess the fruits of the Spirit as they are related to in Bible. His testimony resembles fire tested gold but which still shines."
Addressing the congregation, the Bishop of Shyogwe Diocese thanked God for what he has been for Canon Emmanuel during his pastoral ministry. He urged the Christians who were present to value and support the ministers of God in their ministry. He also reminded that God's calling is not easy even if it always brings blessings.
Like many others, I will miss the wise ideas of Canon Emmanuel in our different church meetings. I congratulate Rev. Canon on this milestone, and pray that God will continue to bless him and his family as he enters this new chapter in his life.
With Great Affection and Gratitude
Joseph SEHORANA
Archdeacon of Hanika
Comments
Add a comment
