Miyove Prison. Gerrit had visited there in April, but due to the heavy rain, he could only address 200 prisoners in a very cramped area. He promised them that he would return. (Often promises are made and broken and we have become very aware of the value the people here attach to promises). The commissioner of the prison wanted Gerrit to spend a whole day there as he claimed that after the previous visit, a calmness descended on the prison and it lasted several days.
Reverend Elson Mageza, the sub-Dean of the Byumba Cathedral, accompanied us. Attendance is voluntary but word had gone out and after a while we were surrounded by approximately 3,500 inmates. 30 women prisoners joined along with 2 little girls who are in the prison with their mothers. We were told that the majority of the inmates are there due to atrocities committed during the genocide. However, there are also people jailed for fraud and other crimes.
It was interesting to observe, during the singing, how some of the “original” 200, attempted to make eye contact or made hand gestures, acknowledging Gerrit’s return.
He preached from Genesis and Acts emphasizing that we are “from one blood” (Acts 17:26) and made in the image of God. He shared about how God values each person. The crowd grew and smiles started to reach their faces. Rev. Elson did a marvelous job translating and there were no periods of awkward hesitations, which can happen when preaching has to be translated.
Although the “congregation” was not allowed to move past a certain invisible line, it did not deter the two preachers to make an altar call, Gerrit challenging them to repent and follow Jesus. Several hundred, if not a thousand or more, committed their lives to the Lord and promised to look at their brothers through the eyes of the Lord Jesus and to leave prejudices behind. Much dancing and praise to God followed with Gerrit leading and getting everyone involved. It was remarkable to see how the prisoners’ demeanor had changed from very brooding to open, gleaming countenances. What a mighty, miraculous God we serve!
Once again, the Commissioner extended an open invitation for Gerrit to return. What they really need is regular weekly follow up. Due to the distance and the condition of the road, it is very difficult for a church to commit to that, but Rev. Elson promised to make more regular visits.
