Psycho-Spiritual Wellbeing among Priests after Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

Abstract

The genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, which occurred in 1994, had profound and enduring effects on the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests, who witnessed unimaginable atrocities and faced complex challenges in the aftermath of mass violence. This study explores the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests in postgenocide Rwanda, focusing on the lingering effects of trauma, the challenges of reconciliation and forgiveness, and the role of faith in healing and rebuilding communities. Drawing on a review of the literature, including studies on trauma, resilience, pastoral challenges, and supportive interventions, this research examines the unique factors shaping the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests in the aftermath of genocide. From the regression analysis, the genocide against Tutsi experience explained 14.6% of the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of the priests in the catholic dioceses in Rwanda. The genocide against Tutsi experiences had a positive and significant effect on the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests in the selected Catholic Dioceses of Rwanda (p=0.00). From the coefficients table, physical experience and psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests had strong positive and significant (b=.649, p=.004<0.05). Emotional experience and psycho-spiritual wellbeing had a strong negative but significant effect on the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests (b=-1.347, p=.000<0.05). Economic experience and psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests had a positive but insignificant correlation (b=.312, p=.339>0.05). Key themes include the profound trauma experienced by Rwandan clergy, the complexities of providing spiritual leadership in communities deeply scarred by violence, and the role of faith and spirituality in coping with suffering and fostering healing. The study underscores the importance of holistic approaches to supporting the wellbeing of priests, including trauma healing programs, pastoral training, and psychosocial support services. By shedding light on the experiences of priests in post-genocide contexts, this research informs efforts to promote their healing, resilience, and effectiveness in ministry, contributing to a deeper understanding of the psycho-spiritual dimensions of clergy wellbeing in the wake of mass violence. The study recommended that there is need for the Church administration to ensure that resources are readily available to support the psycho-spiritual wellbeing of priests