Pastor Richard Gasana

Photo taken in 2021 while my family and I visited Richard and Pera at their home in Kanombe. Last time to see each other face to face. We shall see Richard face to face in heaven. May God comfort his family and all of us who have known Richard. He shall be dearly missed indeed.

I met Papa Richard in 2006 during my DTS YWAM – Rwanda. From that moment, he called me his daughter, and I called him Papa. They welcomed me into their family, and over the years, we built a bond as strong as that of a father and daughter. Last year, in 2025, I had the chance to see him again, even though he wasn’t feeling well. Sinarinziko aribwo bwa nyuma 😭 I will miss him more than words can say. Papa Richard, uzahora uri mu mutima wanjye. I will carry your love, guidance, and laughter with me always. Ndagukunda cyane, Papa. Mama Pera n’abana, ndabakomeje 🙏 Your daughter, Bebe ,Wilson &kids

I met Papa Richard in 2006 during my DTS YWAM – Rwanda. From that moment, he called me his daughter, and I called him Papa. They welcomed me into their family, and over the years, we built a bond as strong as that of a father and child. Last year, in 2025, I had the chance to see him again, even though he wasn’t feeling well. Sinarinziko aribwo bwa nyuma 😭 I will miss him more than words can say. Papa Richard, uzahora uri mu mutima wanjye. I will carry your love, guidance, and laughter with me always. Ndagukunda cyane, Papa. Mama Pera n’abana, ndabakomeje 🙏 Your daughter, Bebe, Wilson & kids

Rest in peace, my friend and the friend of many! I remember the day you taught me how to lead worship through songs, in church, with a small group, and even when I was alone, using a guitar or another musical instrument! You taught me the difference between a song for God and a song that was not sung for the Lord, even if it was sung by a Christian! I remember you showing me how to properly hold a guitar while playing it seated. I remember the day you told me that, even though I didn't have a strong singing voice, I was a worship leader, and you laid your hands on me and prayed for me. When I came to visit you, we spent most of the night talking, praying, and worshiping God together! I remember you showing me how to take care of the guitar and even telling me that it's not just strummed; it's played! You were my friend, my leader, my mentor, and so much more to many musicians! Whenever you stood up and picked up the guitar, raising your voice, the hearts of those around you would instantly be filled with peace and gratitude—whether in church, at YWAM, DTS, or during various outreach events, the atmosphere would transform! We learned so much from you, and we will never forget you! What was amazing was how every conversation you had with someone led to a discussion about God's Word. You didn't say much, but anyone who had the opportunity to talk to you came away a new person!

Rest in peace, my friend and the friend of many! I remember the day you taught me how to lead worship through songs, in church, with a small group, and even when I was alone, using a guitar or another musical instrument! You taught me the difference between a song for God and a song that was not sung for the Lord, even if it was sung by a Christian! I remember you showing me how to properly hold a guitar while playing it seated. I remember the day you told me that, even though I didn't have a strong singing voice, I was a worship leader, and you laid your hands on me and prayed for me. When I came to visit you, we spent most of the night talking, praying, and worshiping God together! I remember you showing me how to take care of the guitar and even telling me that it's not just strummed; it's played! You were my friend, my leader, my mentor, and so much more to many musicians! Whenever you stood up and picked up the guitar, raising your voice, the hearts of those around you would instantly be filled with peace and gratitude—whether in church, at YWAM, DTS, or during various outreach events, the atmosphere would transform! We learned so much from you, and we will never forget you! What was amazing was how every conversation you had with someone led to a discussion about God's Word. You didn't say much, but anyone who had the opportunity to talk to you came away a new person!

My heart is heavy!💔To receive that you are gone is anther story. Uncle Richard, You transformed my life 2016 years ago and i became a new creation because of the seed you planted in me ,I will forever walk with it untill we meet again. Praise God for a well lived life.

We will miss your warm smile and hug Pastor. We will miss seeing you sitting in your seat in front. We will your kind words of encouragement. We will miss your generosity and kindness. Till we meet again my daddy's twin❤️

Dear Parent , Your love , your character and great legacy will always be our treasure. Thank you for loving us so dearly and giving us your ALL. We are forever grateful. We are comforted knowing that you are in the arms of the one you loved and served wholeheartedly. We praise the Lord for your well lived life. We will hold on to all great memories we had together. We miss your smile and hugs already. You will forever be in our hearts. Imana igutuze aheza Papawacu❤️ Turagukunda Valence and Angella

Pastor Richard Gasana was exemplary in many ways, and I count it a privilege to have known him. First, he was gracious. He had a rare kindness about him, patient with people, and never quick to give up on anyone. I remember he invited me several times to visit the church in Rwemiyaga. It took me years to eventually make that visit, yet every time we spoke, he would simply say, “No worries Ivan, I know you are busy. When you get time, we will appreciate.” That was him, accommodating, and genuinely warm. Second, he carried himself with dignity. Pastor Richard was always neat and intentional in his appearance. Whether at home or in church, you could see a man who valued order, respect, and honour in how he presented himself. It reflected an inner discipline and self-respect that spoke without words. Above all, he was deeply committed to serving God. During my time serving on the pastors’ council, I had the opportunity to engage with him more closely. What stood out was his contentment and unwavering focus. He never complained about his salary or about the resources available to his church. Instead, he remained grateful for what he had and fully devoted to serving God with it. That kind of quiet faithfulness is rare. Pastor Richard has left a mark, not only on this earth, but more importantly, in our hearts.

At the crazy hat party with the worship team.

Always ready to crack a joke!

Richard, it's hard to believe you are now with Jesus. You have left a big hole here on earth and I will miss you, my friend. Rwanda became home much faster and easier because of you taking me under your wing. You encouraged me in worship leading, plugged me into CLA at the time, the worship team and made time for me when we were at the base. I knew I could always count on you. Enjoy your rest, my friend. You have fought the good fight of faith. I am so honored for knowing you and being your friend. Looking forward to seeing you again in glory, where there will be no more goodbyes forever and ever!

Pastor Richard, spoke prophetically about this area beside the church, that it would be filled by tents from all the world, who will come to preach and do mission in the region. Most heartfelt condolences to the family, quite a man he was Pastor Richard, I first met Prince who was a good friend to my brother, but later met Pastor Richard when as the YTH ministry we did an outreach to Rwimiyaga, He was a silent, warm, loving and guiding tower in the background, May he rejoice in the everlasting arms, of He, Whom he served!

119 Outreach to Rwimiyaga, the gents enjoying coffee brewed by Pastor Richard. Most heartfelt condolences to the family, quite a man he was Pastor Richard, I first met Prince who was a good friend to my brother, but later met Pastor Richard when as the YTH ministry we did an outreach to Rwimiyaga, He was a silent, warm, loving and guiding tower in the background, May he rejoice in the everlasting arms, of He, Whom he served!

Tent set up at Rwimiyaga for the 119 outreach. Most heartfelt condolences to the family, quite a man he was Pastor Richard, I first met Prince who was a good friend to my brother, but later met Pastor Richard when as the YTH ministry we did an outreach to Rwimiyaga, He was a silent, warm, loving and guiding tower in the background, May he rejoice in the everlasting arms, of He, Whom he served!

119 Outreach to Rwimiyaga, Pastor Richard welcoming the team and sharing the word. Most heartfelt condolences to the family, quite a man he was Pastor Richard, I first met Prince who was a good friend to my brother, but later met Pastor Richard when as the YTH ministry we did an outreach to Rwimiyaga, He was a silent, warm, loving and guiding tower in the background, May he rejoice in the everlasting arms, of He, Whom he served!

At my farewell party.

What deeply touched my heart was a conversation we once had with Pastor Prince about Bible translations. He shared an experience of how his father discovered that some versions of the Bible were missing certain verses. That insight inspired me to pursue a deeper and more wholehearted understanding of the Word of God.

Alwyas mentoring

Always serving

Prince teaching me to play drums at YWAM Heidebeek, 2002.

Celebrating the first C2W-Call2Worship seminar in Rwanda, 2004

Miss you papalove💙💚

He told us (Youth Retreat/Outreach) back in July 2023 and I quote "I may not be a prophet but I may be prophetic." Since then, the statement has never left my head. Below is the link to the pictures taken during the retreat with the youth ministry led by Pastor David Okeyo and Pastor Wicksell Mukalai. https://photos.app.goo.gl/B4QszFyasFFC54AU7

Thank you Uncle Richard, for the life well and fully lived! Truly firm yet humble and loving!! Your arms wide open, your smile so lighting!! You were a unifying bond to our entire family!! Most of us, wouldn’t have known each other, hadn’t it been you! On behalf of my GrandMa, who is your Aunt, we’re sending comfort and prayers to Aunt and all siblings!! I can’t forget, how you came to say goodbye to GrandMa, last year! Forever in our hearts dearest Uncle, we love you! Until we meet in eternity!!