As the festive season draws closer, Catholic bishops have made a passionate appeal to Kenyans to pray that peace and unity reigns in the country. They also urged Kenyans to maintain peace and togetherness.
Speaking in Murang’a at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral grounds, during Bishop James Maria Wainaina’s 40th priestly anniversary Mass celebration, the bishops emphasized the importance of unity and collective prayer in navigating the challenges the nation is grappling with.
The celebrations were led by Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Archdiocese of Nairobi, and attended by Isiolo’s Bishop Peter Makau, Bishop Peter Kimani of Embu diocese and Archbishop emeritus Peter Kairo.
“Let us pray that our country continues to flourish in the direction that pleases God as it is a time to remember that the word of God should be born in our hearts so that we can be recreated in God’s purpose,” said Bishop Wainaina.
“At a time when political temperatures keep rising from time to time it is vital for the citizens to offer spiritual support by praying for the country and its leadership” he added and called on Kenyans to remain hopeful
“As we await to celebrate the birth of Christ, we may be tempted to focus on the challenges we are facing as a country but I urge you all to pray without ceasing,” the Prelate further emphasized.
Archbishop Philip Anyolo asked Kenyans to remain united as they come together to celebrate the birth of Christ.
“Our togetherness needs to start in our families, let us come together and seek to spread the same unity that will in turn translate into peace in the country,” he said adding,“Let us pray for our leaders so that they can be inclined to abide the will of God while upholding what makes a nation flourish”
The colorful event, attended by thousands also drew the attention of key political figures including Murang’a governor Irungu Kang’ata who commended Bishop Wainaina for his unwavering dedication to the community including his consistent collaboration with the county government to strengthen and uplift the society.
Born in 1956, Bishop Wainana was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Nyeri on December 15,1984 and was appointed Bishop of Murang’a Diocese by Pope Benedict XIV in April 2009 and ordained Bishop in June of the same year.
He has served in the Lord’s vineyard in the Archdiocese of Nyeri, the Diocese of Nyahururu and currently the Catholic Diocese of Murang’a.
By Florence Kinyua
