An ordination celebration took place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Muhwazi Catholic parish within the Diocese of Ruyigi. On this significant occasion, eight deacons were ordained as priests, marking a key moment for the Church in Burundi, according to diocesan reports. The event saw a total of twenty-one new ministers called to serve the Church, encompassing those who received priestly ordination alongside others who were conferred with the ministries of lectorate and acolytate. This grand ceremony was a testament to the ongoing spiritual growth and commitment within the Catholic community.
Clergy and Dignitaries Gather
The celebration was presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese of Ruyigi, Mgr Blaise Nzeyimana. During his address, Mgr Nzeyimana emphasized the essential role of the clergy, stating, "Le prêtre est avant tout un serviteur du peuple de Dieu." He further elaborated on this by stating that communities have always needed spiritual guides to accompany the faithful on the path of faith and integral development, showing the enduring significance of the priestly vocation. The event drew attendance from various prominent figures, noting its importance beyond the religious sphere. Among the distinguished guests was Cyriaque Nshimirimana, the Deputy Secretary General of the CNDD-FDD party. Also present was Mgr Joachim Ntahondereye, who serves as the Bishop of the Diocese of Muyinga and holds the esteemed position of President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Burundi. Their presence showed the significance of the ordination ceremony within both religious and political spheres, demonstrating broad recognition of the Church's role.
Spiritual and National Contributions
Mgr Blaise Nzeyimana reiterated that communities consistently require spiritual guides to support the faithful on their faith journey and in integral development. His message resonated with the broader societal contributions acknowledged by state officials. Prime Minister Nestor Ntahontuye, who attended the ordination ceremony, acknowledged the Catholic Church's profound contributions to Burundi's socio-economic development, specifically noting its tireless efforts in education, health, and population well-being. The Prime Minister outlined Burundi's national aspirations, noting the country's pursuit of the vision for an emerging Burundi by 2040 and a developed Burundi by 2060. Mgr Nzeyimana, during his address, further showed the role of the clergy, stating, "Le prêtre est avant tout un serviteur du peuple de Dieu." The Prime Minister's remarks connected the Church's ongoing work with the nation's long-term development goals, emphasizing the synergy between spiritual guidance and national progress.
Words of Service and Gratitude
The Prime Minister of Burundi, Nestor Ntahontuye, attended the ordination ceremony, personally witnessing the commitment of the new ministers. During the event, eight seminarians were also ordained as deacons, marking another significant step in their religious formation within the diocese. Prime Minister Ntahontuye conveyed the State's profound appreciation to the Catholic Church for its continuous and invaluable efforts in Burundi. He specifically recognized the Church's key role in consolidating peace, advancing national reconciliation, and strengthening social cohesion across the country. The Prime Minister's presence and remarks noted the government's acknowledgment of the Church's contributions beyond spiritual guidance, emphasizing its broader societal impact and its essential partnership in nation-building. The newly ordained priests and deacons are now poised to contribute to both the spiritual and social fabric of their communities.