Thanksgiving Mass for Pope Francis’ visit to Kenya
Kenyans have been called upon to consistently refer to Pope Francis’ messages that he gave during his visit in November last year for a deeper understanding and in order for them to put his words of wisdom into practice. The Thanksgiving Mass was held recently at the Daughters of St Paul’s chapel in Nairobi.
During the homily, Marsabit Bishop Peter Kihara, expressed gratitude to the Holy Father, Pope Francis on behalf of the entire country for the Apostolic visit. The Bishop said the Pope’s visit in November 2014 was a blessing to Christians and non-Christians alike.
“I have heard it from the Muslim brothers in Marsabit who are the majority there that, they were blessed and inspired by the messages of the Pope during his visit to Kenya. All felt honoured and uplifted by his reflections and homilies and also by the simplicity of his style and life,” Bishop Kihara said.
Bishop Kihara said he was amazed that the Holy Father, at his age, diligently followed his tight schedule. He prayed that God would continue to bless the Vicar of Christ for his generosity in accepting to visit Kenya and for all the sacrifices that he made during the visit.
The main celebrant at the Thanksgiving Mass was John Cardinal Njue, the Arcbhishop of Nairobi who concelebrated with Homa Bay Bishop Philip Anyolo. Bishop Anyolo is also the KCCB Chairman. Other concelebrants were the Bishop of Ngong Diocese, John Oballa Owaaa; Bishop Kihara himself together with several other priests. In attendance were members of the Kenya papal visit steering committee, KCCB employees, government officials and the faithful.
Marsabit Bishop Peter Kihara announced that the Pope’s messages that gave hope and uplifted many Kenyans are now available in booklets and DVDs.
Earlier in December last year, Pope Francis wrote to the KCCB through the Chairman, Bishop Anyolo. In the letter, Pope Francis commended the people of Kenya for warmly welcoming him.
“I pray that our time together may deepen the bonds of communion we share and bring forth abundant fruit for the life of the Church in Kenya. Commending you to the intercession of our Lady, Mother of Africa,” Pope Francis’ letter read in part.
(By Rose Achiego in Nairobi, Kenya)
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