His life journey reflects deep struggles followed by a close walk with God. Apostle Masasu, the global leader of Evangelical Restoration Church (ERC), has played a significant role in building one of the most impactful churches in Rwanda and beyond. He brought hope in times of fear and took part in healing hearts after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Poverty and a Life of Trials

Born in 1960 in what was then Cyangugu (now Rusizi District), Apostle Masasu grew up in extreme poverty. As a refugee child, he endured dust, hunger, jiggers (sand fleas), and a life full of struggles. He often recounts tending goats, getting arrested, suffering from jiggers, and living with his wife who, for a whole year, had only one piece of cloth to wear. He once said:

“I herded goats, was imprisoned, suffered from jiggers, and lived with my wife who wore one piece of cloth all year.”

Despite the hardships, he never turned away from the call of the Holy Spirit. As a young man studying at university in Kinshasa, he accepted Christ in the most unexpected place, a nightclub.

Not in a church, but while partying, a man approached him with the Gospel message. Masasu was holding a bottle of alcohol when he was told about Jesus living inside a person. He accepted on the spot.

Marriage and Family Life
Apostle Masasu married Lydia Masasu in 1989.

They have walked together for over 35 years through prayer, trials, victories, and spiritual growth. They have five children: Deborah Uwamahoro Masasu, Joshua Masasu, Caleb
Masasu, Esther Masasu, and Yedidiah Masasu.

All their children are now adults, some graduated from universities abroad, and others are working in church projects and development initiatives. Deborah leads Deborah Masasu Collection and founded the popular Rwandan Gospel music group Shining Stars.

Transformation After Surrendering to God

After accepting Christ, Apostle Masasu founded Jerusalem Ministry in Kinshasa, aimed at reaching out to Rwandan refugees in Zaire. He felt a strong calling to give hope to those who had lost direction in life. That mission later evolved as he became a global preacher and church planter.

Return to Rwanda and Founding of the Church

In 1994, after the Genocide against the Tutsi, Apostle Masasu returned to Rwanda, having heard God’s voice. He founded Evangelical Restoration Church, whose purpose was to comfort a grieving nation and help rebuild broken hearts. Today, the church has over 60 branches worldwide, with more than 30,000 members.

Leadership and Principles

Apostle Masasu is known for strong values and a clear leadership style. In all ERC churches, he emphasizes cleanliness, respectful dressing, and a lifestyle that is exemplary. He focuses on raising leaders who are spiritually grounded, biblically sound, and equipped to lead in today’s rapidly changing world.

Exile Shaped His Discipline in Karate, the Word, and Prayer

A unique aspect of Apostle Masasu’s life is his black belt in Karate, which he began during exile as a way to build confidence and self-defense. Even now, he often integrates Karate movements into his sermons to captivate and connect with the youth.

He also engages in intense prayer and fasting, often spending 40 days in the wilderness alone praying for the nation and the church, followed by another 40 days with his congregation — totaling 80 days each year dedicated to intercession and spiritual renewal.

A Life Transformed by Faith

The story of Apostle Yoshuwa Ndagijimana Masasu is a testimony to how God can transform someone from the dust of poverty and rejection into a global spiritual leader. His life is an inspiration to the youth, married couples, and church leaders.

Once a young, penniless man who could only afford one outfit for his wife, he now drives a luxury V8 vehicle, a gift from the church as a symbol of honor and gratitude. Although some may question his success, his journey proves that once God has called you, there’s no going back.

Apostle Masasu stands as a witness that people born into storms can one day walk in the sunlight of honor, because of their faithfulness, perseverance, and obedience to God.

When you understand this man’s path who is also an author, you realize that God truly has a plan, and though it may delay, He will always come through for those who wait on Him.