The Anglican Church of Rwanda is anticipated to elect a brand new archbishop, with the present archbishop, Laurent Mbanda, set to retire except his tenure is prolonged once more.
Mbanda, 71, has led the church since 2018.
It’s understood that the church's Home of Bishops, made up of bishops from its 13 dioceses, has held a number of conferences to organize for the election of the following archbishop.
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Historically, the election is performed in a non-public assembly the place the bishops vote from amongst themselves earlier than saying the winner. Within the present race, there are three bishops.
Who’s eligible to turn into archbishop?
To qualify for the place, a bishop should be no less than 55 years previous however not older than 60, and should have served as a diocesan bishop for no less than 5 years.
Archbishops and bishops are ordinarily required to retire on the age of 65, except an exception is granted.
Who might turn into the following archbishop?
Primarily based on the age and expertise necessities, three bishops presently qualify: Bishop Manasseh Gahima of Gahini Diocese, Bishop Nathan Rusengo of Kigali Diocese, and Bishop Assiel Musabyimana of Kigeme Diocese.
Why was Archbishop Mbanda's tenure prolonged?
Mbanda was attributable to retire at 65, however he has remained in workplace till the age of 71 after his tenure was prolonged.
The explanations for extending an archbishop's time period is probably not made public. Nonetheless, extensions could also be granted to permit an archbishop to finish vital tasks or duties.
At present, Mbanda additionally serves because the chairman of the International Anglican Future Convention (GAFCON), a place he assumed in April 2023. His management position there could be a think about permitting him to stay in workplace because the archbishop of Rwanda for barely longer, in order that he might full his time period at GAFCON in 2028.
Mbanda was elected Archbishop of Rwanda in 2018 after serving as Bishop of Shyira Diocese. He succeeded Archbishop Onesphore Rwaje, who had retired.
Earlier than changing into archbishop, Mbanda additionally served as vp of Compassion Worldwide.
