As part of inspiring Caritas Spirit and serving the most vulnerable, Caritas Rwanda conducted awareness session at Saint Joseph Rutongo Major Seminary, on April 22, 2026.
In her presentation, Sister Gaudiose Nyiraneza, in charge of Animation and Training within the Social Welfare Department at Caritas Rwanda, gave an overview of the history of Caritas both globally and nationally. She also delivered a message encouraging everyone to embrace a spirit of dedication to the most vulnerable, which is the very essence of Caritas. As she explained, Caritas means love of neighbour.
Sister Gaudiose also explained the concept of the Month of Charity (August), established by the Catholic Bishops of Rwanda in 1997. During this month, Christians and people of goodwill contribute through Small Christian Communities and other Caritas structures. This initiative aims to mobilize resources to support victims of disasters, both in Rwanda and abroad (Caritas Nyarwanda).
Following the presentation, the seminarians asked several questions to better understand the mission of Caritas. Some questions focused on other sources of funding for Caritas Rwanda, beyond contributions from Christians and other people of goodwill. They were informed that while these groups are the prime partners of Caritas, Caritas Rwanda also has income-generating activities that can serv when needed.
The seminarians also raised question about the selection criteria for vulnerable children to benefit from educational support, as some are unable to continue their studies. Sister Gaudiose explained that this requires advocacy starting from Small Christian Communities, followed by case analysis and escalation to parish and diocesan Caritas structures, so that those in need can receive assistance.
Father Marc Nizeyimana, Rector of the Saint Joseph Grand Seminary of Rutongo, thanked Caritas for the knowledge shared with the seminarians. He emphasized the importance of the Social Doctrine of the Church which they will continue to study, especially in relation to the charity dimension, described by Pope Francis as the heart of the Church.
The seminarians also shared with Caritas Rwanda that charity acts are already part of their daily lives (especially among them), reflecting a strong foundation for nurturing the Caritas spirit.
Caritas Rwanda organizes such awareness sessions in major seminaries and universities, in line with the recommendations of the Catholic Bishops of Rwanda. Diocesan Caritas structures conduct similar activities in secondary and primary schools.