NAIROBI HOSTS AMECEA 21ST PLENARY AS ARCHBISHOP ANYOLO CALLS YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE PILGRIMS OF HOPE
The Metropolitan Archbishop of Nairobi, Most Rev. Philip Anyolo, has welcomed the delegates attending the 21st AMECEA Plenary Assembly at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) describing hosting the event as “a great blessing and honor” for the Archdiocese of Nairobi. The Archbishop said this in his speech to delegates who include more than 140 Catholic bishops, religious men and women, delegates, and lay faithful Kenya during the official opening of the Plenary which will end on Sunday 26th July 2026 with a Holy Mass at St. Mary’s Msongari, Nairobi.
This opening Eucharistic celebration brought together Church leaders from across the AMECEA region, led by His Eminence, Michael Cardinal Czerny, SJ, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and representative of the Holy Father, alongside Bishop Charles Kasonde, Chairperson of AMECEA and Bishop of Solwezi Diocese in Zambia.
H.E Michael Cardinal Czerny, SJ 
In his welcoming remarks, Archbishop Anyolo said, “We are truly humbled to have all of you present, and we hope that this week gives you an experience of faith, warmth, and the energy and vibrancy of the Church in Kenya, the Church in Nairobi.”
Welcoming the large number of young people attending the celebration from across east Africa, Archbishop Anyolo emphasized that the assembly’s focus on youth presents an opportunity for the Church to journey together in hope and prayer. He encouraged them to embrace the spirit of synodality, drawing inspiration from the Gospel account of the disciples on the road to Emmaus.
Reflecting on the message delivered on behalf of the Holy Father by Cardinal Czerny, Archbishop Anyolo urged the faithful not to lose hope, reminding them that Christ remains close to those who feel lost, discouraged, or exhausted.
He also reiterated Pope Francis’ message that young people are not merely the future of the Church but an active presence of God in the world today. Quoting St. Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, he challenged them to become good examples to emulate both in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity while courageously witnessing to the Gospel.
“Do not be afraid to live your faith to the full. Allow the Holy Spirit to inspire you and guide you to joyful and courageous witness,” Archbishop Anyolo urged.
The week-long AMECEA Plenary Assembly brings together Cardinals, bishops and delegates from across Eastern Africa to reflect on the role of young people in the life and mission of the Church under the theme: “AMECEA’s Synodal Journey with Young People: Building Bridges of Communion, Hope, Justice, and Good Governance.
