
“Rwanda is A Nation Close to God, A Nation Full of Love” – The Message of Apostle Dr. M. Rueal McCoy
Apostle Dr. M. Rueal McCoy from the United States of America, who has visited Rwanda twice (in 2024 and 2025), declared that Rwanda is “the land of a thousand hills, full of peace and love.”
He last came to Rwanda during the “Thanks Giving Conference” at Revival Palace Community Church in Bugesera, held from August 13–17, 2025. His wife, unlike the previous year when he came alone, accompanied him. He explained that bringing his family was a way of strengthening his bond with the church and with Rwanda.
By Referring to InyaRwanda, the servant of God said that whenever he comes to Rwanda, he feels at home.
He said: “When I am in Rwanda, I feel like I am with family. I feel as if I come from here, as though I am connected with Rwandans. That is why I returned with my family. I want to continue this relationship with Revival Palace Community Church and with Rwanda as a whole.”
Living in Florida, USA, Apostle McCoy also said: “Rwanda is a nation close to the heart of God. Every time we come here, we feel close to God and we see the life of God in this nation. Rwanda is truly a nation near to God’s heart.”
When he witnessed the peace, love, security, and development of Rwandans under the leadership of President Kagame, he confirmed that what is often said in America about Rwanda is not true.
He stated: “What we hear in America about Rwanda is different. Most of it is about the past. But when you come here and see how it is governed and how people live, you discover truth, goodness, and visible progress.”
Both Apostle Dr. M. Rueal McCoy and Bishop Dr. Daryl Forehand were the main preachers at the Thanks Giving Conference 2025 at RPCC Bugesera. His wife accompanied each.
They said they wanted their wives to also learn about Rwanda as a nation that belongs to God. Apostle McCoy said: “We brought our wives so they can also see the truth about Rwanda and learn what a blessed country it is. We are happy to be here in Bugesera, to share life with you, and to rejoice together in this conference of thanksgiving.”
Pastor Dr. Ian Tumusiime, the Senior Pastor of Revival Palace Community Church Bugesera and leader of A Light to the Nations Ministries in Africa, praised God for the good leadership He gave Rwanda.
He said: “We thank God for the leadership of President Paul Kagame, for God has given him wisdom to lead a small country with vision and understanding.”
He added that the church’s 11 years of existence is itself a great testimony: “Having been here for 11 years, we know the Goliaths we have faced.” He continued: “Some people had accidents, others fell sick, but God kept protecting us. Now we are in this thanksgiving gathering to give people renewed hope.”
The Thanks Giving Conference 2025 was marked by worship, testimonies, prayer, and preaching of God’s Word under the theme: “The LORD has done great things for us” (Psalm 126:3). The event was blessed with songs of praise led by the famous singer group Injili Bora known for the song “Shimwa” and El Shaddai Choir known for the song “Cikamo”.