African Catholic Heritage Centre
Preserve. Serve.
Prepare.
Preserving the Past, Serving the Present, Preparing the Future — A Strategic Master Plan for the Preservation, Digital Transformation, and Sustainable Development of Catholic Heritage in Rwanda.
Our Vision
Africa's Leading Catholic Heritage Centre
To establish Africa's leading Catholic Heritage Centre at Save Mission, preserving the legacy of Catholic evangelization while promoting research, pilgrimage, education and sustainable heritage tourism.
"Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you."
— Isaiah 60:1
Strategic Pillars
Our Foundation
Seven pillars that guide our mission to preserve, celebrate, and share the Catholic heritage of Africa.
Heritage Conservation
Preserve and protect historic sites, structures and artifacts at Save Mission.
African Catholic Museum
A world-class museum showcasing the history of Catholicism in Africa.
Digital Heritage Archive
Digitize and preserve invaluable historical records and collections.
Pilgrimage Development
Enhance spiritual experiences and pilgrimage infrastructure.
Education & Research
Promote academic research, learning and knowledge exchange.
Community Empowerment
Create opportunities and improve livelihoods for local communities.
The Cradle
Why Save Mission?
Save Mission is the birthplace of the Catholic Church in Rwanda — a living testimony of faith, sacrifice, education, and service.
First Catholic Mission
Arrival of the White Fathers at Save — the first Catholic mission in Rwanda.
Mission Activities
Establishment of evangelization, education, and healthcare initiatives.
Continued Growth
The Church's impact on Rwandan society continues to grow and flourish.
Heritage Treasure
Save Mission stands as a heritage treasure for the Church and the Nation.
"Remember the past with gratitude, live the present with passion, embrace the future with hope."
The Centre
Proposed Components
Heritage Museum
Showcasing the history of Catholic evangelization in Africa.
ExploreDigital Heritage Archive
Preserving documents, photos, and oral histories in digital formats.
ExploreResearch & Resource Centre
Supporting academic research and publications.
Learn MorePilgrimage & Spiritual Centre
Spaces for prayer, retreats and spiritual renewal.
ExploreEducation & Training Facility
Workshops, seminars and youth formation programs.
Learn MoreHospitality & Visitor Services
Accommodations, restaurant, and visitor information.
Learn MoreImpact
A Lasting Impact
For the Church, communities, and future generations.
Spiritual Impact
Strengthen faith, deepen spiritual life, and inspire vocations through a living heritage.
Educational Impact
Provide access to knowledge, research, and capacity building.
Social Impact
Strengthen community identity, cohesion, and cultural pride.
Economic Impact
Generate employment, boost local economy, and promote responsible tourism.
Environmental Impact
Promote stewardship of creation and sustainable development.
Cultural Impact
Preserve and celebrate Africa's Catholic heritage for posterity.
Our Values
Guided by Faith and Excellence
Faithful
We remain true to the Gospel and the mission of the Church.
Excellent
We pursue excellence in all we do.
Inclusive
We welcome all and value diverse perspectives.
Sustainable
We steward resources for generations to come.
Transparent
We operate with integrity and accountability.
Impactful
We create meaningful change in lives and communities.
"Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
— 1 Corinthians 10:31
Roadmap
5-Year Implementation Plan
Step by step, we build the future.
Year 1 — 2025
Foundation
- • Detailed studies & documentation
- • Legal & land securing
- • Emergency conservation
- • Fundraising & partnerships
Year 2 — 2026
Development
- • Restore Colonial Church
- • Build Museum & Exhibition Hall
- • Set up Digital Archive Centre
- • Improve access roads & utilities
Year 3 — 2027
Expansion
- • Construct Research & Education Centre
- • Develop Pilgrimage facilities
- • Landscape & ecological restoration
- • Community programs
Year 4 — 2028
Integration
- • Launch heritage tourism programs
- • Digital platforms & global outreach
- • Staff training & capacity building
- • Strengthen partnerships
Year 5 — 2029
Sustainability
- • Full operations & maintenance
- • Financial self-sustainability
- • International recognition
- • Legacy & impact evaluation
A Lasting Legacy
Together, let us build a legacy of faith, heritage, and hope for generations to come.
Join Us in Preserving Our Heritage
Explore the digital archive, plan a pilgrimage, or support the mission.