“SPEAK IN A UNIFIED VOICE,” PRIESTS IN THE ARCHDIOCESE CHALLENGED DURING THE ELECTIONEERING PERIOD

The Clergy of the Archdiocese of Nairobi have been challenged to carry out their prophetic call of delivering God’s message by speaking in one voice ahead of the August 2022 general elections. This was said during a seminar held at Queen of Apostles Ruaraka Parish for all the clergy working in the Archdiocese.

The talk under the theme: ‘priest’s voice amidst other voices in the current political environment’ was conducted by Emeritus Prof. Amb. Judith Mbula Bahemuka who is a former permanent representative of Kenya to the United Nations, a renowned lecturer at the University of Nairobi, a researcher and a diplomat.

Among the key areas elucidated by the octogenarian was on the clergy being the conscience of the nation by confronting the injustices taking place in the society. Prof Judith called on them to speak in one prophetic unified voice that that carries God’s message. She said, “You are the conscience of this Nation. If you limp we also limp.”

She further asked in concern, “Do you confront and condemn the injustices in our country? Does the message you deliver to the flock reflect your personal conflicts or the message that Christ has for His people? Are you compromised or do you have that prophetic voice to speak and challenge the political elites or in your own preferences do you stay silent? Let Kenya be your preference.”

Noting the disunity in the ongoing campaigns in the country and misleading information circulating in the online space she nudged, “you have the opportunity to make a difference by speaking in one unifying voice. We have broken leaders, be healers. Act as the anointed who carry the message sent by God of ‘Go and tell my people’ Do not let Kenya down.”

The vibrant session saw the priests reflect on the current challenges they are facing their pastoral work as they sought for solutions.

Archbishop Philip Anyolo reminded the clergy of their responsibility in taking care of the flock entrusted to them. Embracing the spirit of synodality and with steadfast love and duty he claimed, is what will move the Archdiocese to reach its optimum in fulfilling the Mission of Christ. Amidst those present was the Auxiliary Bishop, David Kamau and slightly over 200 priests.