Prayers and praise for Quakers in Burundi

Quakers in Britain have sent condolences to Quakers in Burundi following the sudden death of the outgoing president, Pierre Nkurunziza. Their message also pays tribute to their inspirational work of witness in communities.

The full text of the letter follows:

“To Quakers in Burundi

“We send you greetings from Friends in Britain Yearly Meeting. We want you to know that you are very much in our prayers. We offer our condolences to the Republic of Burundi and its people at this difficult time.

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We continue to hold you in the Light and stand in solidarity with your inspiring peace work.

- Quaker World Relations Committee

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“We have heard much about your witness in your communities in recent years, from Tobi Wellner and his predecessors, and from your regular reports. Your experience has inspired us in many ways, and we thank you for that. May this work continue and thrive.

“The Covid-19 pandemic is affecting us all, and Friends worldwide are contending with it in their own contexts. May Burundian Friends, your yearly meetings, and all of us find the strength to respond and help to build a better world.

“We continue to hold you in the Light and stand in solidarity with your inspiring peace work.

“On behalf of Britain Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)

“Yours, in peace,"

The letter was signed by Ann Floyd, clerk of Quaker World Relations Committee for Britain Yearly Meeting, and by Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Britain Yearly Meeting (the formal title for Quakers in Britain).

Read about peacebuilding in Burundi