Bishop Paul Butler visits BCU

Bishop Paul Bulter’s reflections on his recent visit to BCU, Summer 2019:

‘It was a fabulous joy to visit BCU once again on our recent visit to Burundi. To see the new home, behind the Provincial Office was wonderful. We had a tour led by the Vice Chancellor and Academic Dean. Clearly the facilities are so much better than the old Cathedral had provided. We were really impressed by the 40 students who gathered to meet us. They spoke movingly of just what BCU means to them. They were enthusiastic about their own futures (mainly as pastors), and of the planned development of new departments for the University. It is clear that the challenges are many. It is tough simply to cover the tuition fees and living costs. The Dioceses also told us how stretched they are financially in this regard. The students look forward to having full time lecturers although spoke very warmly of all the visiting lecturers that they have (from within Burundi and from outside). They dream of being able to have residence together. The Centre manager also told us how much the Centre values having BCU on site and the joy the students bring daily to the facilities. The Library continues to need many books; especially now in English Language, Communications and Development Studies as these departments develop.

We were also delighted to meet 3 students on placement at Gatumba Parish on the Sunday morning. They are clearly being trained and formed for ministry not simply in the academics.

BCU is a light shining in Burundi’s troubled darkness. It is like a grain of mustard seed cast into the earth. Pray for it to shine and to grow.’