In a quiet and attentive room, amid deep silences and expectant gazes, one truth became clear: inner healing is possible when it begins with Christ. It was around this conviction that Vessels of Hope Burundi Foundation, represented by Chadrack NININAHAZWE, organized a Christian counseling conference that left a lasting impression and touched many hearts.

Over two days, on January 16 and 17, 2026, church leaders and committed Christians from various communities across the city of Bujumbura gathered to reflect, learn, and experience a biblical and compassionate approach to Christian counseling.

A Threefold Relationship at the Heart of the Christian Counseling

The teachings were led by Bob and his wife Debbie, Christian counseling specialists from the United States of America. From the very first sessions, the tone was clear: Christian counseling is not merely about carefully chosen words; it is built upon a living threefold relationship.

“The person who comes with their problem, the one who listens, and Jesus Christ.”

A simple vision, but profoundly transformative.

According to counselor Bob, Christian counseling is a journey of healing with Christ, in which one person walks alongside another toward restoration. It is about helping the one who confides to be freed from what holds them back and to move forward in their spiritual, emotional, psychological, and relational growth.

There are no ready-made solutions here. Christian counseling is, above all, a process — a walk beside the wounded person, guiding them toward Christ, the One who heals hearts, restores lost hope, and grants the peace that comes from God.

Vessels of Hope Burundi: A Mission Serving the Whole Person

Taking the floor, Chadrack Nininahazwe, Founder and General Administrator of Vessels of Hope Burundi Foundation, recalled the organization’s overall mission:

“We contribute to the holistic development of the child through the proclamation of the Gospel and works of compassion, by facilitating access to basic social services and supporting community development initiatives.”

A mission that goes beyond occasional assistance to reach the human being in all dimensions. Chadrack emphasized an essential point:

All these actions are carried out for the glory of God.

For her part, Erica Nininahazwe, head of the Discipleship and Christian Counseling Department, highlighted the main goal of these trainings: to help believers grow in their faith and serve God with greater discernment and effectiveness.

She also announced upcoming new training sessions designed for couples, families, and especially young people preparing for marriage. These teachings will be shared with churches in a spirit of collaboration because — she reminded them — all believers take part in building the same Kingdom.

Chadrack and Erica: A Story of Restoration Turned to Mission

Behind Vessels of Hope Burundi Foundation lies a deeply human story.

Chadrack NININAHAZWE was born in 1988 in Musaga, Bujumbura, the economic capital of Burundi. Raised in a Christian family, his early years were marked by the harsh realities of Burundi’s history: civil war, political instability, and social unrest. In addition to this, he struggled with chronic and unexplained health problems throughout his youth.

In an attempt to cope, Chadrack turned to alcohol and drugs, which led him into a long and painful season marked by addiction, life on the streets, suicide attempts, prison stays, and psychiatric hospitalizations. It was through the constant care and kindness of a young Christian Lady named Erica that he discovered the transforming love of Jesus Christ. Her compassion and faithful prayers helped him find a new path. Eventually, their lives were united in marriage and ministry.

Erica Bishaza Nininahazwe was born in 1991 in Nyamugari, Gitega, the political capital of Burundi. Like Chadrack, her life was marked by tragedy and loss. Following the conflict that affected the country, her family was forced to flee the crisis while she was still young, and at the age of nine, she lost her father.

Raised by her courageous mother, Erica assumed responsibilities far beyond her years, developing resilience and a strong sense of duty. These experiences shaped in her a deep empathy and a passion for service. Despite many challenges, at the age of eleven, Erica gave her life to Christ and became actively involved in the worship ministry. Her faith became a solid foundation and a source of healing, enabling her to walk alongside others on their journey toward restoration and purpose.

Together, Chadrack and Erica share a divine calling to serve their nation and bring hope to the Burundian people with love, integrity, and Christ-centered leadership. They have answered this call by dedicating their lives to redemptive personal and community transformation.

An Embodied Vision: Vessels of Hope Burundi

They have known suffering; today, they carry hope — Chadrack and Erica serving the cause of Christian healing.

From their shared journey was born Vessels of Hope Burundi Foundation, a Christ-centered ministry committed to addressing the spiritual, emotional, and economic needs of the Burundian people. Their vision is to offer holistic restoration through the transforming power of the Gospel.

Academically, Chadrack holds a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and Leadership from Africa College of Theology, as well as a Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary (United States). Erica, trained in hospitality and event management, is currently completing a Master’s degree in counseling, specializing in trauma care and family support.

Testimonies That Speak for Themselves

The impact of the conference is reflected in the testimonies of the participants.

Apostle MVUYEKURE Jean Bosco shared:

I learned how to accompany couples in conflict, especially when they come seeking counsel after disagreements, and how to help them reconcile.

Nduwimana Jeanne added:

I understood that God continues to work even after the counseling session, depending on how He was presented, because we cannot answer every question.

Officially recognized as a foundation in Burundi in 2025, Vessels of Hope Burundi plans to organize this type of training annually, along with other teachings aimed at strengthening and edifying believers.

This story was translated from French to English by Audace Niyonkuru