TLAfrica exists to equip leaders with the essential skills of servant leadership, enabling them to make a positive impact in their respective communities. Recognizing the significance of mentorship in achieving this goal, TLAfrica actively supports and participates in mentorship-focused initiatives.

On December 13th, 2023, TLAfrica participated in the official inauguration of the ORPAR ministry. ORPAR stands for Organisation des retraites et Personnes Ages au Rwanda (Organization of Retirement and Elderly People in Rwanda). This organization was founded by Reverand Bucyana Bernard after identifying the need for a community and support system for retired pastors and their spouses. The primary objective of ORPAR is to fight loneliness and isolation, provide education on self-care, and empower retired pastors with mentoring abilities so that they can mentor younger pastors. The highlights of the event included; the official launch of the ORPAR ministry and the inauguration of its office, and a workshop for 12 retired pastors and their wives.

The attendees included bishops, retired pastors, pastors still in ministry, representatives from various non-profit organizations, and local government officials. Each speaker expressed a deep sense of gratitude for this initiative, which aims to provide support and mentorship to retired pastors, ensuring they do not feel isolated and can continue serving the church. Many leaders in attendance pledged their partnership with ORPAR to help achieve its goals. Although unable to attend in person, Dr. Faustin Ntamushobora, the CEO of TLAfrica, sent a message of appreciation and encouragement to the members and leaders of ORPAR. He commended Reverend Bernard Bucyana for this initiative and assured that TLAfrica would provide support to this ministry.

The attendees included bishops, retired pastors, pastors still in ministry, representatives from various non-profit organizations, and local government officials. Each speaker expressed a deep sense of gratitude for this initiative and pledged their partnership with ORPAR to help achieve its goals. Although unable to attend in person, Dr. Faustin Ntamushobora, the CEO of TLAfrica, sent a message of appreciation and encouragement to the members and leaders of ORPAR. He commended Reverend Bernard Bucyana for his vision and courage and assured that TLAfrica would provide support to this ministry.

The ceremony was followed by a workshop that extended to the next day, where twelve couples got the opportunity to learn how they can navigate the retirement stage and how they can mentor younger pastors. The workshop was led by Pastor Mauka, Pastor Munyamasoko Gato, and Pastor Bucura David. Here are some of the insights gained from the workshop:

  1. Retirement does not imply stopping ministry. It rather means engaging in less physically demanding activities according to one’s energy (Numbers 8:23-25)  
  2. Sometimes the work we set out to do can be completed by our successors. The speaker cited the example of David and Solomon. David had the idea to build the Temple for the Lord, but Solomon got to build it instead of David himself (1st Chronicles 26:1-6).
  3. Retired pastors should share their expertise and experience with younger pastors in ministry and mentor them. They have a lot to teach them. 
  4. Retired pastors should trust God to keep taking care of them. God promised that “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you.” Isaiah 46:4 

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This is the second time that TLAfrica engaged in mentorship programs this year. On April 4th to 5th, 2023, Dr. Faustin Ntamushobora, the CEO of TLAfrica, conducted a training session for 47 pastors from the Evangelical Friends Church of Rwanda, focusing on mentoring as part of leadership development. By actively supporting such initiatives, TLAfrica addresses the pressing need within the Rwandan church to bridge the gap between different generations, fostering dialogue and collaboration. TLAfrica made a commitment to continue supporting and partnering with ORPAR in this important endeavor.

By Solange Balikunde