We were all together, the family, some of their friends, and me. And there was a little boy, just 9 years old, whom I instantly connected with. He and I had a special task in that garden.

We started a hunt, laughing and searching, and I was amazed when I discovered several beautiful items, especially chocolates and eggs labelled with my name “Jeremie”. Everyone cheered, calling out my name excitedly. I was so happy, and I quickly ran to collect them.

I call it an Easter Bunny hunt with hidden chocolates, storybooks, and Easter eggs.

On my Eyes

As a Rwandan volunteer serving in the Public Relations Department of the An Sieg und Rhein Church District in Germany through the United Evangelical Mission representing my Church, the Anglican Church of Rwanda-Butare Diocese, this Easter was not only a spiritual celebration but also a deep personal cultural exchange.

Before arriving in Germany, I had only known Easter as a time of church services, hymns, and family gatherings. But this year, I found myself in the heart of a new tradition, one that opened my eyes to different ways people around the world express faith, joy, and unity.

I was amazed to witness the German funny Bunny Easter thing.

Light in the World

A few hours before: The night was clear and dark and very cold. Happy me that I put on my winter jacket. In front of the church building each person was given a small glass containing a candle. In the centre of the circle, there was a bright flame burning, prepared for a symbolic lighting ceremony.

The pastor held a large candle, bigger than all of ours, and lit it from the main flame. Then she walked around and began lighting each person’s candle. One by one. I in turn gave light to the candles of my neighbours.

I enjoyed the circle of candle lights. For me, this was a powerful symbol to remind me that Jesus has risen and brought light into the world.

Singing and Dancing

We didn’t have drums and guitars, but a piano, microphones, and speakers. We had our voices and our bodies. The Easter Sunday Swahili-speaking worship service was a vibrant time of praise. I joined the service led by brothers and sisters from Tanzania who live in Bonn. To my surprise, I met two former UEM Volunteers who are part of this community.

We sang a Swahili song, turning to the persons on our right and left, reaching out our hands in a gesture of blessing and love. This moment was powerful for me, it symbolized love, connection, and unity. I felt a deep sense of togetherness, while dancing to the rhythm of the piano.

Jeremie Niyiguha hat einen Bachelor in Kommunikation.
Seit 1. April ist er FSJ’ler im Referat für Öffentlichkeitsarbeit An Sieg und Rhein.
Er arbeitet im Team mit, besucht VEM-Seminare und lernt Deutsch.