To the great joy of the 33-member Bujumbura congregation, the church in the Burundian capital was granted official registration in August after two years of paperwork, follow-up and prayers. Two months earlier, after much effort from the Bujumbura disciples, HOPE worldwide Burundi had been registered.

In thankfulness to God, the disciples held a banquet on August 12, where 90 people attended. Many of them have much gratitude and vision to express.

Leon says, “I am very happy because this is a great opportunity for God's church to grow from a mustard seed to the largest tree.” Natacha adds, “I believe with all my heart that God is opening doors for his kingdom to spread.”

"I am very very happy because God has answered our prayers and patience,” Serge shares. “He has a great purpose to develop the church and HOPE Burundi." Equally excited is Protais, who says, “When (congregational leader) Benson called me on Thursday August 18th to tell me that our church was registered I shared tears of joy.”

Didi, who leads the Bujumbura women’s ministry, says, “It is a miracle, and I am so grateful to God for what he has done. I prayed hard for both the church and HOPE to be registered, and now here we are, ready to advance. Our God is a faithful God."

HOPE Burundi plans to assist orphans and Burundians living with HIV. For now, though, due to lack of funds, it has decided to run a blood donation project, working with the National Blood Transfusion Center run by the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Benson says, "Am deeply excited and grateful to God about the registration of both HOPE and the church. One of my major dreams has been realized.

”We believe that God is the Alpha and the Omega and that he who started his work in us will carry it to completion. Now, I feel like we need to move the kingdom forward powerfully. With HOPE, we hope that even greater things will be achieved as God provides funding.

“I would like to see God bless this church and HOPE touch many hearts."