CATHOLIC JUSTICE AND PEACE MEMBERS CHALLENGED TO BE OF ARDENT SPIRIT
Catholic Justice and Peace Members in the Archdiocese of Nairobi have been told to be bold, eloquent speakers and of ardent spirit for the work they do to be effective. This was vehemently spoken on during the celebrations of the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) held at Consolata Shrine, Westlands. The theme was, “We stand for Peace, Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for all”
Dr. Bernard Mogesa, Chief Executive Officer of Kenya National Commission on Human Rights emphasized on the need for a collaboration of the Church to work together with KNCHR to amplify the voices and work towards creating an environment where the right holders are aware of their rights and the duty bearers can deliver on their mandate.
‘Let us renew our pledge to stand together, to build bridges instead of walls, and to champion the cause of human rights as a pathway to sustainable peace. In the church we not only have the congregation, but amongst you are resilient individuals with unique experiences, stories, dreams, and aspirations,” he said.
Echoing his words, Rev Fr. Peter Mbaro, director of the Centre for Social Justice and Ethics at CUEA reminded the members of their roles as custodians of the church with their primary function being peacemakers and evangelizers with the message of peace. He said, “For you not to fall behind in your roles, there is a need to understand what human rights are to be able to understand and implement them in the context of and for the community.”
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted and proclaimed by the United Nations in 1948, consists of a broad range of fundamental rights and freedoms to which all humans are entitled. These include rights to freedom of expression, equality before the law, and the right to live free from discrimination. The Church has long supported these principles, viewing them as inherent to the teachings of Christ about love, respect, and justice for every person.
