Who we are
About PilgrimCenter
Founded in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, PCHR has spent over two decades walking alongside Rwanda's communities toward lasting peace.
Pilgrim Center's reconciliation approach was born in Rwanda out of the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. When Arthur and Molly were invited by World Vision to work with East African leaders, they recognized a critical gap: while many organizations were meeting physical needs, few were addressing the deeper wounds of broken trust and fractured relationships.
Their conviction was simple but profound: rebuilding a nation takes more than infrastructure. Clinics, schools, and wells matter, but lasting peace requires healed hearts.
On her first morning in Rwanda, Molly felt called to kneel before a group of thirty Hutu and Tutsi pastors and leaders and ask forgiveness for the West's role in dividing them. What followed were hours of confession, repentance, and healing that many had believed impossible. The retreat ended in worship and a shared commitment to carry reconciliation across Rwanda.
Unlike conventional seminars, this ministry is built on the belief that true reconciliation isn't just taught; it's experienced. Healing, truth-telling, repentance, and forgiveness form the heart of everything Pilgrim Center does.
The work began under Africa Revival Ministries before gaining independence. In 2003, Pilgrim Center received legal recognition in Rwanda, with Bishop Paul Ndahigwa serving as founder and Country Director. The model has since expanded to many countries, helping wounded communities rebuild together.
This was the beginning of our call to be reconcilers.
"They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated. They will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations."— Isaiah 61:4
We are utterly dependent on the Spirit of God to do the work of heart healing and relational restoration of those who participate in retreats.
We intentionally create a safe space where strangers and even enemies can become friends through the healing ministry of reconciliation.
We do the work of the Healing and Reconciliation Retreat as a team, welcoming and employing the unique gifts of each member of the servant-leadership team.
We fully submit to Christ as our head, and minister confidently under His authority and empowerment.
We function from a place of wholeness in Christ, ministering with transparency and authenticity.
We are lovingly present with people where they are. We patiently and tenderly listen to their hearts.
We provide opportunities for groups and individuals to come away to rest, refresh, and receive the healing ministry of reconciliation.
We develop follow-up tools for individuals and groups of leaders who have participated in the ministry of the Pilgrim Center so they can extend the ministry of reconciliation.
We mentor individuals and groups of leaders nationally and internationally who will multiply the ministry of the Pilgrim Center.
We grow connections with individuals and organizations who share compatible values and goals.
We increase the capacity of the Pilgrim Center to provide resources and support to other interested individuals and organizations that pursue the work of peace and reconciliation.
We stand and speak the truth in love in places of historic and contemporary conflict and pain.
"A healed and reconciled society where individuals, families, and communities live in peace, dignity, and restored relationships."
"To bring hope and healing through reconciliation by renewing individuals, restoring relationships, and revitalizing communities across Rwanda."
