Butare, RWANDA

WORKS OF THE SJBVC

Located in Rwanda, this monastery offers a unique volunteer experience deeply rooted in community integration and meaningful engagement. The monastic community plays a pivotal role by fostering relationships through farming, employment opportunities, and spiritual activities. Known for their warmth and hospitality, the monks here are not only humorous and kind but also eager to build lasting connections with volunteers.

Volunteers at the monastery in Rwanda primarily engage in teaching English, with opportunities for additional roles based on their skills and the monastery's requirements. Upon arrival, volunteers undergo a comprehensive one-week training program to prepare them for their teaching responsibilities. Following this training period, volunteers receive a weekly timetable outlining the classes they will teach.

In 2023, the monastery has identified English, Art, and Computer Science as key subjects for volunteers to teach. Depending on the schedule, volunteers may teach up to six periods per day, although this workload can vary. Additionally, there are English club sessions held twice weekly, providing further opportunities for engagement and language practice outside formal classroom settings.

This structured approach ensures that volunteers are well-prepared and supported in their teaching roles, contributing to the educational and community development initiatives facilitated by the monastery.

Those who have served

2023-2024: Logan Braaten and Joseph Stangler

2024-2025: Ian Aadland, Evan Mattson