June is supposed to be a dry month yet it still rains. Love the rain when I am ready to sleep.
So soothing.
Announcement of the month
Esperance, one of my Rwandan daughters, is engaged.
In Rwanda, many events occur before a wedding can take place. They begin with the families of the bride and groom meeting to discuss whether or not the union is acceptable and what the dowry will be. As Esperance’s mom, I was included in this gathering hosted by Juliette and her husband Felix, as Urukundo is the family of the bride. Oswald – who wears many hats, including president of the National Board, and vehicle manager and driver – will act as the father of the bride. I had often wondered about how such an event would be managed. Now I know for such future events.
Julliette, Mama (myself), and the bride-to-be.
She was accepted as a suitable wife by the groom's family. He was accepted as a suitable husband by the bride's family (Urukundo Foundation).
The dowry will be many cows. In Rwandan tradition, cows are a significant part of the dowry, known as "inkwano." The groom's family traditionally presents cows to the bride's family as a symbol of respect, wealth, and their ability to support the new couple. This practice highlights the cultural importance of cows as a sign of prosperity and kinship in Rwandan society.
The dowry and wedding date are set for Aug. 31, 2025. The dowry celebration will take place in the morning at the Urukundo Foundation Hope Made Real House. They will go to another location for the religious ceremony in the afternoon and then return to the HMR House for the reception in the evening.
Our bride and her Urukundo family are in the first phase of a very special occasion.
Pastor Yves, Executive Secretary Eric, Juliette’s husband Felix, Juliette, me, bride-to-be Esperance, Oswald, his wife Felicia, Juliette’s sister Dancille, and Assistant to Pastor, Chantel.
More on this event in the September newsletter.