In order to implement the recommendations of the 2021–2024 Synod of Bishops—particularly those concerning transparency, accountability, and evaluation as outlined in paragraphs 95–102 of the Synod’s Final Document—the Diocese of Cyangugu organized a dedicated session for all diocesan priests. During this session, each priest had the opportunity to present his pastoral work to his peers as a concrete sign of transparency, accountability, and mutual evaluation. The session took place from May 25 to 30, 2026, at the INCUTI Pastoral Center, under the leadership of the Mgr Edouard Sinayobye, Bishop of the Diocese of Cyangugu.
Transparency
Aligning with the Final Document, the Bishop reminded the priests that transparency is an exercise in the good practices of truth, loyalty, clarity, honesty, integrity, and consistency. It requires the rejection of opacity, hypocrisy, ambiguity, and ulterior motives, as taught by Holy Scripture, which calls us to be “as innocent as doves” (cf. Mt 10:16). Thus, transparency has a profound evangelical foundation. Far from compromising respect for privacy and confidentiality, it actively ensures the protection, dignity, and rights of all individuals.
Accountability
The session also highlighted that rendering an account of one’s ministry to the community is rooted in the most ancient traditions of the Church, dating back to the Apostolic era. A striking example is found in Chapter 11 of the Acts of the Apostles: “upon returning to Jerusalem after baptizing Cornelius (a gentile) and interacting with his household, Peter faced criticism from the circumcised believers who were scandalized by his actions. Peter humbly and respectfully gave a detailed account of everything that had occurred. Similarly, during this session, each priest was reminded that providing an account of their ministry is a fundamental right of the faithful to the People of God whom they serve. It is a strict duty because the mission carried out by priests does not belong to them personally; it belongs to God and His people. Consequently, priests are called to give an account to both God and the community.
Evaluation
Participants learned that the practices of transparency, accountability, and evaluation do not consist of criticizing or judging one another. Instead, they serve to strengthen trust among brothers and sisters who share membership in the same Church. This collaborative approach leads to a proper and constructive evaluation of each person’s ministerial work.
Primarily, evaluation highlights both positive achievements and areas for improvement within ministerial responsibilities. It helps ministers learn from their lived experiences to better fulfill their mission within their respective pastoral areas.
At the conclusion of the session, the participants adopted several resolutions to implement going forward. Foremost among these is a formal commitment to conduct this accountability and evaluation exercise annually, noting how enlightening it has been in helping them evaluate and renew their pastoral ministry.
By Fr. Rwabugiri Siméon