From the Orthodox Mission in Burundi
His Grace Bishop Isaac of Burundi attended for the first time the gathering of the Orthodox Missionary Fraternity on May 11 and spoke about the reality of missionary work in the landlocked state of East Africa, Burundi.
As the first Bishop of the Holy Diocese of Burundi, after its separation from the Holy Metropolis of Rwanda, he praised the work of the departed missionaries who worked in the area, leaving behind infrastructure such as churches and schools.
During his speech, His Grace referred to the difficulties faced by his flock in Burundi and highlighted the rapid increase of Islam in the wider region, emphasizing the challenges faced by the Orthodox Church.
According to the data presented by the Bishop, eight priests currently serve in the region, ministering to hundreds of faithful and catechumens. His Grace referred to the projects he implemented in his one year of ministry, such as renovations of churches and schools and translations of services into the local Kirundi dialect.
He made special mention of his pursuit to purchase a central plot of land costing approximately 5,000 euros for the construction of a new holy church valued at 20,000 euros. Additionally, he referred to the need to purchase land for the construction of two more holy churches, dedicated to Saint Iakovos Tsalikis and Saint George Karslidis, as well as to restore damages to the cathedral and schools in Buramata.
He also emphasized the need for catechesis, as well as the broader needs for food, healthcare, and education of the local population.
