Church Leaders Reawakened to Their Role in Early Childhood Development in Burundi

Scripture Union Burundi (SU Burundi) recently brought together 80 church and school leaders from Rutana, Makamba, Cibitoke, Gitaza, Ngozi, and Gitega for a 6-day series of strategic training sessions on Early Childhood Development (ECD).

These gatherings created a  space of reflection and renewal, challenging leaders to rethink their role—not only as shepherds of congregations, but also as active shapers of the next generation.

Throughout the sessions, a consistent message emerged: church leaders are not only responsible for today’s believers, but also for the future of the Church.

Participants were introduced to the importance of holistic child development, emphasizing the physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual growth of children from an early age.

This approach challenged many leaders to reflect on their current ministry practices and to recognize that children and youth require intentional, structured, and sustained investment.

In Gitaza, special emphasis was placed on the revival of Sunday school programs and the importance of active family involvement in children’s spiritual formation. Leaders were encouraged to see discipleship not as an isolated church program, but as a shared responsibility between the church and the home.

As the training progressed, many participants openly acknowledged gaps in how children’s ministry has been prioritized in their churches. This honest reflection became a turning point, leading to renewed conviction and commitment to change.

Leaders expressed a growing understanding that investing in children is not optional—it is essential for the long-term health of the Church and the community.

A particularly  testimony came from Rev. Kabura Sylvestre, a pastor from FECABU Gitega, who shared his personal awakening: “Through this training, I realized mistakes I made as a parent from the prenatal stage through my child’s early years. Acknowledging this was not easy, but it helped me grow and gain deeper understanding. It has made me more compassionate and better equipped to support others in their parenting journey.

This experience has also changed my ministry approach. I will now not only accompany couples preparing for marriage, but also invest in parents who bring their children for dedication. I now understand the importance of preparing and equipping them early so they can raise their children with confidence and care.”

His testimony reflects a broader transformation experienced by many participants—a shift toward intentional parenting support and proactive children’s ministry.

In Rutana and Makamba, the sessions further explored Early Childhood Development (ECD), highlighting how a child’s early years play a critical role in shaping identity, values, and future behavior.

Participants were encouraged to embrace a holistic vision of ministry, recognizing that children are whole persons whose spiritual growth is deeply connected to their emotional, social, and cognitive development.

This understanding helped leaders see more clearly the importance of creating supportive and nurturing environments for children within both church and family settings.

Leaders expressed repentance over past neglect, renewed their commitment to children’s ministry, and committed to practical actions within their churches.

Many returned to their communities determined to:

• Strengthen children’s ministry programs

• Support and train parents

• Revive Sunday school activities

• Integrate ECD principles into church life

As the trainings concluded, participants left not only with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of responsibility for shaping the next generation.

The seeds planted during these 6 days have the potential to grow into lasting transformation within churches and communities across Burundi. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder that the future of the Church depends on how intentionally we invest in children today.

We invite all stakeholders and partners to join us in prayer for the continued growth and strengthening of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) program in Burundi.

May every child grow in a safe, nurturing, and faith-filled environment where they can thrive and fully realize their God-given potential.