Bishops call for environmental conservation

Bishops during 2022 National Prayer Day

By Rose Achiego Ande

On 1^st October 2022, the National Prayer Day celebration took place at the Marian Shrine in Subukia, Nakuru, under the theme: ‘God’s family journeying together in a united and environmentally sustainable Kenya.’

The bishops urged Kenyans to take care of the environment. “Conserve the environment, take care of trees and grow trees, do not cut them to burn charcoal,” the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kisumu Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia said in his Homily.

Bishop Muhatia called on the pilgrims who thronged the Shrine to be responsible and pray for the conservation of the environment. “Through the intercession of Mary, we pray that we may conserve the environment,” he said. 

Tens of thousands of Christian faithful drawn from different Dioceses congregated to give thanks for peaceful general elections in Kenya and pray for various national, family, and individual needs. 

Speaking during the same function, the Chairman of the KCCB – Commission for Pastoral and Lay Apostolate and Bishop of Kitui, Rt. Rev Joseph Mwongela, thanked God for the prevailing peace while applauding Kenyans for maintaining peace before, during, and after the General Elections.

Bishop Mwongela called on Christians to walk together in Christ and to continue the fight against corruption, reminding the congregation that the war on graft begins with self-conscience and examination. “Pray that corruption may come to an end. Remember that the fight begins with you!” he said.

He, however, expressed happiness that this year’s National Prayer Day was well attended due to relaxed Government rules on Covid-19, unlike the past two years when attendance was law. The celebration was attended by more than 20 bishops including his Eminence John Cardinal Njue. The next national prayer day is slated for 7^th October 2023 and will be animated by Nairobi Metropolitan.