In a vibrant atmosphere filled with jubilation and dance, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops launched the National 2024 Lenten Campaign in the Catholic Diocese of Embu on Friday, 9th February, 2024.
The event commenced with a spirited 3km procession to Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral Grounds, which was flagged off by the Chairman of the Catholic Justice and Peace Department, Rt. Rev. John Oballa Owaa, in the company of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wote, Rt. Rev. Paul Kariuki Njiru.
The solemnity of the occasion was elevated by Holy Mass, presided over by Most Rev. Anthony Muheria and concelebrated by Bishop Oballa and Bishop Kariuki.
In his moving homily, Archbishop Muheria urged Kenyans to embark on a personal journey of combating corruption, embracing the Lenten spirit as a catalyst for enduring change. Further, he passionately implored all Kenyans to look beyond ethnic and political divides, fostering unity as a collective people of God.
Archbishop Muheria gave a compelling analogy to drive his point home: “When faced with illness and in need of a life-saving blood transfusion, we relinquish control over the donor’s identity.
Regardless of political affiliations or social status, the blood that sustains us may emanate from the humblest of villagers. In that critical moment, distinctions of party or class dissolve. Let us, therefore, treat one another with respect, shunning divisive tendencies based on superficial differences of tribe or political allegiance.”
Through his impassioned words, Archbishop Muheria underscored the imperative of solidarity and empathy, urging all to embody the essence of Lent by fostering a society rooted in justice, compassion, unity and integrity.
