We are pleased to feature Rugarama, one of the villages included in our “well club” initiative. Over the past three years, we have observed some amazing changes that are being made in a small village church located approximately one hour from our home base in Kiburara. Their innovative and practical approach to community care is making a significant impact.
The initiator of this change is, Pastor Fred. We met last summer when we joined Andrew Okello for a Goat Giveaway Presentation in their village. Fred is a humble, welcoming person, but a driving force in the small church he leads. He is a young but has demonstrated wisdom and quiet leadership as he’s helped rally his community to establish a “well club” in Rugarama.
Following Fred’s lead, several of his church members stepped forward and raised funds for well maintenance for the borehole SMI drilled years ago. Today the club membership continues to grow while still practicing responsible “ownership” of the well and the clean water it provides to the entire village.
The well club marked only the initial phase of their efforts. Beyond their sacrificial giving to the club, Fred and the church members systematically allocated funds to purchase land surrounding the church. Upon acquiring their first plot, they cultivated cash crops, selling the produce to generate savings for essential elements of the church building—such as the roof, windows, and doors—without resorting to loans. During this period, their shared responsibilities fostered stronger relationships within the congregation. Although the process has required patience, their church building is now nearing completion, fully supported by their dedicated collective initiative.
Talking with Fred, we asked what they plan next? Once the church is complete, they want to purchase additional plots they intend to use for community members without land. Using the same paradigm shift to continue farming sections to support future sustainable needs of church members. Not a handout but a hand up.
Last week, as we prepared to celebrate Easter, I read an article written by Carol Holiday. Ms. Holiday was sharing the significance of the last Passover meal Jesus celebrated with His disciples and one of the most important commands He left them with in the gospel of John.
We read in John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you; Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Ms. Holiday’s comments about this moment strike me as similar to the service, we’ve seen happening in Rugarama. John’s Gospel records that Jesus spoke those words after He washed His disciples’ feet, modeling the greatest humility by removing His outer garments and serving others. King Jesus wiped caked mud from the feet of the ones He knew would abandon Him in His own darkest hours.
Love and serve others with humility. Even when they don’t deserve it.
That’s hard to do, isn’t it? Some days I don’t want to be nice. I’m tired or grumpy. My day’s not going well.
Therein lies the dilemma of metaphorically washing someone’s feet when I feel like that someone should be washing mine. No human naturally embraces this command from Jesus. It’s the command none of us can embrace without Him.
Pastor Fred’s selfless care for his community shows his devotion to God and others. He truly embodies the principle of washing someone’s feet and follows Christ’s example in loving people.
Empowerment Through Biblical Principles
For an organization like SMI, whose mission is to foster a shift from dependency to empowerment and sustainability, witnessing the progress of a small church in a remote village is truly remarkable. The church’s willingness to adopt this biblical approach serves as a powerful example of transformation in action.
Even more inspiring is the attitude and spirit driving these efforts. Pastor Fred consistently puts the needs of others first, demonstrating genuine love regardless of how lovable those individuals may be. Through his actions, he is embodying the principles of the Gospel, living out its teachings in everyday life.
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