Bishop Philippe Rukamba's journey began in 1974 when he was ordained as a priest at Kibungo Diocese. After 23 years of priesthood, he was appointed Bishop of Butare Diocese in 1997, succeeding Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi.
His journey began during a challenging period, just a few years after the Genocide against the Tutsi, a time when Rwanda was grappling with profound physical and emotional scars.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE following the announcement of his retirement, Bishop Rukamba reflected on his 27-year journey, navigating his deep commitment to reconciliation and healing in the aftermath of the Genocide.
He expressed a sense of fulfillment in having played a significant role in mending the wounds of the Butare community, an area that endured some of the most callous atrocities during 1994.
"Butare saw many deaths; in fact, it was the area where the largest number of people died compared to any other former prefectures in Rwanda. It was also the place where many people were imprisoned. The first thing one would notice was sorrow and tears. It was a very difficult time," Rukamba recounted.
The Bishop comprehended that the region was marked by a large number of orphaned children and grieving adults, which made the task of emotional and spiritual healing all the more crucial.
"It's about mending people's hearts, helping those who are suffering, because faith comes from the heart and not anywhere else. I am pleased to see that as my time to retire approaches, people are at peace. There is a youth that thinks differently now, but we have done many things related to healing, helping people to forgive each other, helping people to come to an understanding, helping children to attend school, and healing people to the best of our ability, which has led to a better life," he shared.
Bishop Rukamba's legacy also includes the ordination of 115 priests, contributions to the establishment of the Catholic University of Rwanda, and active participation in various initiatives that have significantly improved the lives of Rwandans.
Priestly marriages- absconding from duty
Addressing the issue of priests leaving the priesthood for marriage, Bishop Rukamba likened it to divorce.
He emphasized that those who choose the priesthood do so with a commitment to celibacy and a life dedicated to God.
"When a priest leaves the priesthood, to me, it is like someone divorcing their spouse. There are always people who struggle, and sometimes things don't work out, and they leave. There is no cause for alarm," he explained.
'If you look globally, they say, 'it's good, but if you allow priests to marry, you must also be aware that tomorrow you may face issues of those priests getting divorced. How will you handle it? Can a priest who has divorced his wife continue to be a priest? What will they teach?'"
He acknowledged the challenges faced by priests who marry, especially in denominations like the Orthodox where this is permitted, and noted the complexities that arise when such marriages fail.
Bishop Rukamba stated that even when a priest leaves the priesthood to marry, he remains a priest because the sacrament he received does not end, but he cannot perform priestly duties in the Church. However, the Church now allows them to be married in the Church, though it requires going through a long process.
"It doesn't prevent them from being Christians, and now the Church even facilitates and advises them how to get married in the Church through proper channels. It takes time to go through all those necessary steps, but it happens when you can't manage anymore."
About homosexuality
On the issue of homosexuality, Bishop Rukamba maintained the Church's stance, asserting that it cannot accept a lifestyle driven solely by pleasure.
"As a Church, we cannot accept that. These people are only seeking pleasure, and this way of life comes from Europe and is their old way. It's not new. Living solely for pleasure is not something the Church accepts."
Rwandan law recognizes marriage only between a man and a woman.
Bishop Rukamba also emphasized that the Church only recognizes marriage between a man and a woman, and anyone who has strayed should be helped to return to the right path.
"Marriage is between a man and a woman. This doesn't mean you should shun someone who has gone astray; they may be a brother, friend, or child, and you should continue to support them, but the path they are on is not the right one."
Bishop Rukamba confirmed that helping someone who has adopted a homosexual lifestyle to abandon it is not an easy task because it becomes deeply ingrained.
Retired but not tired
He mentioned that although he is retiring, he is not tired yet and will continue his cherished role of teaching in seminaries and other institutions, as he still has the energy to fulfill duties assigned to him.
Bishop Rukamba advised his successor as the Bishop of Butare Diocese to prioritize strengthening the faith of the youth, ensuring they remain steadfast Christians, and to continue supporting families, as these areas face the most significant challenges today.
It is customary for a bishop, upon reaching the age of 75, to notify the Pope of their intent to retire. The Pope has to approve the request, but the retirement only takes effect once a successor has been appointed.
IGIHE
