📘 Biography of Bishop Jean Bosco Ntagungira
Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Butare, Rwanda
Jean Bosco Ntagungira, born on April 3, 1964, in Kigali, Rwanda, is the third bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Butare. His life and ministry reflect a deep commitment to pastoral care, ecclesial service, and the healing mission of the Church in Rwanda.
🏫 Early Life and Formation
Raised in the Archdiocese of Kigali, Jean Bosco began his priestly journey at Ndera Minor Seminary, followed by studies at Rutongo Preparatory Seminary. He pursued philosophical and theological training at Nyakibanda Major Seminary, Rwanda’s national seminary, where he was formed in the spirit of service and intellectual rigor.
✝️ Priestly Ordination and Early Ministry
He was ordained a priest on August 1, 1993, for the Archdiocese of Kigali. His early assignments included serving as Rector of Ndera Minor Seminary, where he guided young seminarians in their spiritual and academic formation. His leadership and pastoral sensitivity quickly earned him recognition within the archdiocese.
🎓 Advanced Studies in Canon Law
In 1994, Fr. Jean Bosco was sent to Rome for further studies. He enrolled at the Pontifical Lateran University, where he obtained a Doctorate in Canon Law (JCD). His time in Rome deepened his understanding of Church governance and equipped him for future administrative responsibilities.
🏛️ Service in the Archdiocese of Kigali
Upon returning to Rwanda in 2001, he was appointed Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Kigali, a role that involved overseeing diocesan records, canonical procedures, and supporting the archbishop in governance. He also served as a judge in the ecclesiastical tribunal, offering his expertise in canon law to resolve pastoral and legal matters within the Church.
🕊️ Episcopal Appointment and Ordination
On August 12, 2024, Pope Francis appointed him as Bishop of Butare, succeeding Bishop Philippe Rukamba. His episcopal ordination took place on October 5, 2024, in a solemn liturgy attended by bishops, clergy, religious, and faithful from across Rwanda and beyond.
His episcopal motto, Audiant et Laetentur (“Let them hear and rejoice”), reflects his vision of a Church that listens to the cries of the people and responds with joy, compassion, and hope.
📍 Leadership in Butare
As Bishop of Butare, he shepherds a diocese with 26 parishes, numerous schools, health centers, and religious communities. His priorities include:
- Promoting healing and reconciliation in post-genocide Rwanda
- Strengthening seminary formation and vocations
- Supporting Catholic education and youth ministry
- Enhancing digital evangelization and diocesan communication
- Fostering unity among clergy and laity
🌍 Legacy and Vision
Bishop Jean Bosco Ntagungira is known for his humility, intellectual depth, and pastoral warmth. He brings to Butare a spirit of renewal rooted in the Gospel and the Church’s social teaching. His leadership continues the legacy of his predecessors while responding to the spiritual and social needs of today’s Rwanda.