The Benebikira Sisters, the oldest indigenous congregation in Rwanda, have a number of nuns in their community referred to as “Sister Listeners.” Their job is simply to listen – to listen in order to help the country heal following the 1994 genocide. Sr. Marie Venantie Nyirabaganwa, Superior of the Southern Province, remarked, “There are many problems in Rwanda, and many people have mental problems because of the genocide. Those who killed have their own problems, and those who lost people due to the genocide have their own problems.” All of these people must be listened to. Other congregations of sisters have followed suit, providing similar forms of support to the people of Rwanda. While the country still feels the effects of the genocide every day, this type of communication fosters respect and acceptance, helping to move the nation towards reconciliation.
To learn more about the impact these sisters are making in Rwanda, click here.
