The Catholic Church in Rwanda is mourning the loss of two respected priests who recently passed away after years of serving believers in different dioceses across the country.
The priests are Father Jean Baptiste Mendiondo, who served in the Diocese of Nyundo, and Father Donat Bagirubwami from the Diocese of Byumba.
Their deaths have saddened many Christians, church leaders, and communities that knew them for their long service, kindness, and dedication to the Church.
Father Jean Baptiste Mendiondo Dies in France
Bishop Anacret Mwumvaneza of the Diocese of Nyundo announced that Father Jean Baptiste Mendiondo died on 9 May 2026 in France, where he had been living in a retirement home for elderly priests.
According to the official statement from the Diocese of Nyundo, the priest died after illness.
The diocese shared the sad news with bishops, priests, religious members, Christians, friends, and relatives connected to the Church.
Father Mendiondo, also known as Habineza, was widely known in western Rwanda because of his long missionary work in the Diocese of Nyundo.
A Priest Remembered for Long Service
Father Jean Baptiste Mendiondo was a French priest who became well known in Rwanda after spending many years serving Christians in Nyundo Diocese.
Reports say he started missionary work in the region around the 1930s and became one of the priests who contributed greatly to the growth of the Catholic Church in the area.
Many believers remember him for his commitment to spreading the Gospel and helping local communities.
For more informations visit Catholic Church Rwanda — https://www.eglisecatholique.rw
Father Donat Bagirubwami Also Passes Away
The Church also announced the death of Father Donat Bagirubwami from the Diocese of Byumba.
He passed away during the night of 11 May 2026 after illness.
Christians who knew him described him as a humble and welcoming priest who treated everyone with kindness and respect.
Many people say he was always ready to listen to those facing different problems and gave wise advice to those who needed guidance.
His Service in Different Parishes
Father Donat Bagirubwami served in several parishes including:
- Bungwe Parish
- Muhura Parish
- Byumba Parish
During his ministry, he helped many Christians grow in faith and supported communities through religious teaching and spiritual counseling.
Believers say his contribution to church life and community support will always be remembered.
Christians Share Messages of Sadness
After news of the deaths spread online and in churches, many Christians shared messages of comfort and prayers for the two priests.
Some described them as servants of God who dedicated their entire lives to helping others.
Others thanked them for their spiritual guidance, leadership, and service to communities across Rwanda.
The deaths of the two priests come as a painful moment for the Catholic Church in Rwanda.
The Role of Priests in Communities
In Rwanda, Catholic priests often play an important role not only in churches but also in communities.
Besides leading prayers and religious ceremonies, many priests support education, reconciliation, counseling, and social development programs.
This is why the deaths of respected priests often deeply affect the communities they served for many years.
