The working group "Universal Church" of the parish Graz Karlau supported for more than 30 years in close cooperation with the Missio Austria humanitarian aid projects and the training of priests.

The formation of the former pastor of Nyamasheke Abbé Ubald was supported by this study group. Together with Traude Schröttner a partnership was formed, which has existed for more than 20 years and is becoming a big relief organization has developed for the local parish and the Diocese of Cyangugu.

And then occurred one of the saddest events in this world: the genocide in Rwanda. Within 3 months in 1994 killed 800000-1 million people brutally. In French it is called the "vie perdu '- lost life. Our partner parish will be taken seriously.

Not only churches, rectories, schools and other facilities are destroyed. In Nyamasheke thousands of parish residents lose their lives - are brutally killed. Alone in the church are 6,000 people who believe themselves in safety, the horrors of war victims. Others have to flee to the nearby Congo to save her life and see many loved ones ever again.

But now peace has returned, and the church is trying with all their might, to reconcile people to each other again. Abbé Ubald sets a good example. He visited his family's murderer in prison, he not only forgives, but also provides for its children, and even funded the study. Abbé Ubald smiles: "Only God can give us this!"

In the large parish of around 32,000 baptized Catholics live. Together, the Holy Mass is celebrated. Despite poverty and much suffering from the belief grows great hope and joy.

But again, the people and all the friendships and support projects put to the test. On 2 February 2008 the earth trembles. An unbelievable destruction rocked the country. Churches, schools, houses - are severely damaged and destroyed in many regions. But the hope and commitment of the people knows no end. The people give the hope of a name "Dieu nous aime" | God loves us! And again vicarages as meeting rooms are repaired and rebuilt, rebuilt schools and create more training opportunities for young people.

Through the commitment of the pastor and the loving friendships with Traude Schröttner and the parish community in Graz Karlau was diminished in recent years, much suffering, spread joy and the foundation for a brighter future to be created.

(Editor Jutta Becker based on texts by Jacki Weitlaner)

We support both our pastor and the Diocese of Cyangugu with all our strength, because we believe that the reconciliation of the people is a prerequisite for peaceful coexistence. May the Queen of Peace, the joy in God and his church received, the people ask for lasting peace, and bless and protect all.

Thanks to all helping hands and hearts!