Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Reverend Pastor Eugene Kiruhura grew up as the eldest of eleven children in a humble farming family, grounded in faith, education and community. When war broke out in 1996, his family fled from village to village in search of safety. After enduring years of displacement and unimaginable loss, Eugene found refuge in Des Moines, Iowa, determined to rebuild his life through faith and service.
Welcomed by Urban Heights Covenant Church, Eugene discovered both belonging and purpose. As more Congolese refugees arrived, he recognized the need for worship and mutual support in their native language and started a fellowship group in 2010 which led to the founding of Shalom Covenant Church in 2014 where Pastor Eugene was ordained in 2016. Under his leadership, the church became a sanctuary of hope, faith and practical support for refugees and immigrants.
In December 2024, he completed his ordination as Reverend Pastor Eugene Kiruhura. For him, ministry and community leadership are both acts of love rooted in healing, belonging and service.
