Bishop Niall Coll’s recent visit to Rwanda to see the work of Trócaire there
Bishop Niall was honoured and delighted to be one of four Irish bishops who recently travelled to Rwanda to see first-hand the difference Trócaire is making in the lives of so many people.
Founded by the Irish Catholic Bishops in 1973, Trócaire was established to put faith into action by standing with those in the developing world who are poor, vulnerable and marginalised, and by promoting the God-given dignity of every person. For generations of Irish Catholics, Trócaire has been a familiar and cherished part of Church life. The simple Trócaire Box, found in so many homes, schools and churches each Lent, is a reminder that we are part of one human family and that our faith calls us to care for one another.
Throughout the visit, the bishops witnessed the strength of Trócaire’s partnerships with local communities, Church organisations and public authorities. Alongside Bishop Paul Dempsey of Dublin, Bishop Fintan Monahan of Killaloe and Bishop Martin Hayes of Kilmore, Bishop Niall visited several projects supported by Trócaire and met many of the people whose lives have been transformed through this work.
Particularly moving were encounters with men and women rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of Rwanda’s tragic experience of genocide in 1994 during which an estimated 800,000 people, predominantly Tutsi, were murdered by extremist Hutu forces. The bishops visited a programme helping former combatants reintegrate into society and witnessed the extraordinary resilience, courage and hope of communities that have endured immense suffering. They also visited initiatives promoting climate justice, supporting sustainable livelihoods, advancing women’s rights, and helping parishes, schools and dioceses become active partners in building a more just and sustainable future.
Reflecting on the visit, Bishop Niall said that no report or presentation could fully prepare him for the experience of meeting people face to face and hearing their stories. “I was deeply moved by the warmth, faith and dignity of the people we encountered. Despite the hardships many have faced, there was a remarkable spirit of hope, reconciliation and faith everywhere we went. Seeing communities come together to rebuild lives and create opportunities for future generations was both humbling and inspiring.”
He added: “As Irish people, we can sometimes wonder what difference our support for Trócaire really makes. Having visited these projects and met the people involved, I can say with confidence that it is making a real and lasting difference. The generosity of people at home, often expressed through the humble Trócaire Box, is helping families, communities and entire regions to build a brighter future. I returned home with a renewed appreciation of the importance of Trócaire’s mission and with a deep sense of gratitude for the people who support it year after year.”
Bishop Niall also expressed his sincere gratitude to Sean Farrell, CEO of Trócaire, and to Marleen Masclee and her team in Rwanda for their dedication, commitment and hospitality. Their work is a powerful witness to the Gospel in action and to the enduring solidarity between the people of Ireland and the people of Rwanda.
