Stevens' Communiqué September 2025

And when the chief Shepherd appears,

you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

1 Peter 5:4

I just returned a few days ago from the East African country of Rwanda, often referred to in French as Le Pays aux Mille Collines (the country of a thousand hills). I was accompanied by a team of people including a young couple from our local church and my brother-in-law. Though attendance in the two seminars was far less than expected, we give thanks that 45 Rwandan church leaders are better equipped to study and preach God's Word.

The above verse is one of the "chain verses" entitled Christ Shepherd in the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible. What encouragement it gives to faithful under-shepherds who endure suffering as they humbly carry out the ministry entrusted to them (see 1 Peter 5:1-3)! The same verse also encourages me to persevere in the ministry of pastoral training in Africa.

Thank you for your faithful prayers and gifts that made this ministry trip possible. Below are a few words of testimony by those who accompanied me.

Here's a short testimony from the three who ventured out with me on this trip:

I was deeply moved by the hunger for spiritual fellowship among the people we met, who welcomed us with open and sincere hearts. Sharing an encouraging message about finding strength in Jesus was a highlight, as this was an opportunity that God gave me to provide my testimony to other women with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This mission trip further shaped my perspective on faith and service, and it's an encouragement to continue pursuing mission work. - Elly Gulish

I learned something enigmatic about forgiveness during this trip. Seeing how the people are dealing with the fallout from the genocide has made the suffering I’ve been through seem minuscule in comparison. Giving their grief and shame to God is the only thing they can do. It made me realize that God doesn’t expect us to fix ourselves. He calls us to repent and turn to Him . . . Our burden is heavy, His burden is light. I’m thankful I only have to worry about loving my Savior, and I trust that He will handle the rest. - Mike Gulish

Thirty years ago, Rwanda experienced a horrible genocide. In their grief, the people sought forgiveness and the nation recognized the need to turn to Christ. Today, there is a strong hunger for Scriptural knowledge but a shortage of trained pastors. It was a blessing to attend sessions where pastors received intensive instruction, completed proficiency exercises, and received Bibles for the support of their congregations. I will remember the kindness and appreciation of my Rwandan brothers and sisters and their love of the Lord. Also, I am thankful for the willingness of Pastor Stevens for allowing me to travel with the team. - Steve Cook

Here are some more pictorial highlights of our trip:

As I reflect on our two weeks in Rwanda, I'm reminded that the Chief Shepherd is daily caring for the "under shepherds" of His church in this country of a thousand hills.