Born in Mataba in 1922, Mpyisi spent his formative years in Gitwe, where he initially worked before embarking on a journey that led him into exile across various countries, including Burundi, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Kenya.<\/p>\n
Mpyisi’s educational journey began at Rwamwata Adventists School for primary education, followed by secondary school at Gitwe Missionary School. <\/p>\n
Remarkably, he learned to read, write, and speak French by the age of 12. In 1935, at the age of 18, he pursued higher education, culminating in his graduation.<\/p>\n
Continuing his academic pursuits, Mpyisi studied at the University in Zimbabwe, ultimately becoming a pastor in 1951. His missionary endeavors took him to Kasai in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1953, where he dedicated three years of his life before returning to Rwanda. <\/p>\n
Motivated by encounters with American and South African missionaries, Mpyisi ventured abroad to teach in rural areas, spreading the gospel.<\/p>\n
Post-graduation, he found employment in a white man’s office in Nyanza, adhering to teaching requirements. His commitment was evident, even enduring corporal punishment, receiving eight lashes for exceeding given timelines.<\/p>\n
Reflecting on his journey, Mpyisi once shared with IGIHE, “I went to Zimbabwe as a refugee, then I went abroad. I graduated in 1964, and I returned to Rwanda in 1997. I went to university with three children; in the past, people used to pursue education while having children.”<\/p>\n
A distinguished scholar from Rwanda, Burundi, and Congo, Mpyisi was among the early individuals to acquire a bachelor’s degree in the field of Theology.<\/p>\n
Post-qualification, he not only served as a pastor but also took on the role of educating and mentoring other pastors. He was ordained as a pastor in 1951.<\/p>\n
Becoming an advisor to King Kigeli V Ndahindurwa, this seasoned clergyman found himself compelled to flee the country in 1961, prompted by the 1959 revolution that ousted the monarchy. <\/p>\n
In September 2022, Mpyisi celebrated his centenarian birthday, surrounded by the warmth of family and friends.<\/p>\n
Renowned for his impactful preaching style, a unique blend of brutality and humor, Mpyisi carved out a reputation as a straightforward preacher. <\/p>\n
His distinctive approach involved skillfully juxtaposing real-life situations with spiritual insights, creating a powerful and engaging connection between the tangible and the divine.<\/p>\n
Pastor Ezra Mpyisi leaves behind a rich legacy as a trailblazer in the field of theology, a dedicated missionary, and an influential figure in Rwanda’s spiritual landscape.<\/p>\n