The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Muranga, James Maria Wainaina, has called on all members of the public to accord respect to people with disabilities (PWDs) and the most vulnerable in society.
Speaking at St. Joseph Benedict Cottolengo Kianyaga Catholic during the parish’s centennial celebrations, the bishop observed that respecting people with disabilities is a godly and noble thing to do because Christianity reminds us of the sacredness of life from conception until death.
“Regardless of the physical outlook of any individual, we are always compelled to respect and put into consideration the innate human dignity of each person throughout their life,” he said.
Bishop Wainaina further reminded the faithful that people with disabilities have a claim to our respect because, just like ourselves, they also contribute to the development of our society.
The church, he added, must become an advocate for them because disability is not a punishment.
Amongst the congregants, the bishop spotted and recognised a lady in a wheelchair, who turned out to be the director of people living with disabilities in Kirinyaga County.
Compelling the faithful to respect and love people living with disabilities, Lady Mary Wawira gave a chilling account of how an accident in her most active years of life rendered her disabled.
“We are all candidates for disability. I was not born like this; a tree fell on my car and rendered me disabled, so let us learn to treat people with disabilities compassionately,” revealed Wawira.
The historical centenary event brought together hundreds of faithful and members of the clergy from the parish and beyond.
Others present at the event included correctional services, PS Mary Muthoni and Mwea MP Wachira Kabinga.
By Florence Kinyua
