KENYA: Bishop Calls for Daily Love and Forgiveness in Families, Acknowledges Challenges of Covid-19

NAIROBI, JUNE 12, 2020 (CISA)– Bishop Norman King’oo Wambua of Machakos and Chairman, of the commission for Family Life National Office of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops has called on Kenyans to reflect on the family as a gift from God,  and the pillar of strength during good and bad times.

“As Catholic bishops we are aware of the challenges that have emerged due to Covid-19 pandemic. We note with great pastoral concern that emotions are running high and arguments are exploding frequently within our families. Worries of food, money, rent and job security have characterized the lives of Kenyans, deepening the anxiety of what the future holds for us,” he said June 7 after a televised Mass on Holy Trinity Sunday.

In the bishops’ message of hope to the country during this time of Covid-19, Bishop King’oo urged Kenyans to take this time to rethink and reflect on the meaning and the values of a family and fruits of marriage and to remember that daily love and forgiveness are the pillars of every family.

“We appeal to the parents and other household care-givers to continue with the noble responsibility of protecting their families and providing for their needs,” he added insisting on unity, cooperation, constructive communication, empathy, forgiveness, mutual understanding, appreciation and sheer enjoyment of one another’s company as the keys to maintaining healthy and happy relationships.

As the government continues to put and enforce measures to slow the spread of Covid-19 the bishops encouraged Kenyans to be law abiding citizens and avoid conflicting circumstances with security agents. They however condemned brutality exhibited by police officers during curfew enforcement.

“We reiterate our commitment to continue working with the State and Non-state actors for the common good during these difficult times,” he said.

The bishops encouraged citizens to pray and support the sick, the poor, the elderly, the vulnerable and persons with special needs within the society during the pandemic.