The serene coastal city of Mombasa became a beacon of faith and national reflection on Friday as thousands of Catholic faithful gathered at Mama Ngina Waterfront for the grand launch of the 2025 National Lenten Campaign. Under the theme “The Kenya We Desire”, the campaign seeks to ignite a spirit of peace, justice, and unity in a country grappling with economic hardships, corruption, and political divisions.
Led by the Archbishop of Mombasa, Most Rev. Martin Kivuva Musonde, the event began with a symbolic procession from Star of the Sea School to Mama Ngina Waterfront, echoing the biblical journey of repentance and renewal. The presence of a formidable delegation of bishops, including Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba (Archbishop of Kisumu), Most Rev. Antony Muheria (Archbishop of Nyeri), Rt. Rev. Simon Peter Kamomoe (Auxiliary Bishop of Nairobi), and Rt. Rev. John Oballa Owaa (Bishop of Ngong), underscored the gravity of this year’s Lenten call.
A Nation Called to Repentance and Renewal
Delivering a powerful homily, Rt. Rev. Henry Juma Odonya (Bishop of Kitale) urged Kenyans to embrace personal and national transformation. He reminded the faithful that Lent is not just a ritual but a call to sincere repentance, self-examination, and intercession for Kenya’s well-being.
“We must turn back to God, as individuals and as a nation. Kenya is yearning for justice, peace, and true leadership. It is our duty, as believers, to pray in secret and act with sincerity, knowing that God sees all,” Bishop Odonya preached, referencing the Gospel of Matthew.
He further challenged Kenyans to reject corruption, dishonesty, and political intolerance, noting that “The Kenya We Desire” can only be built through moral integrity, servant leadership, and selfless charity.
The Bishops’ Bold Message to the Nation
As the campaign was unveiled, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) issued a strong press statement addressing the current socio-political and economic challenges facing the country. While the details of their statement remain undisclosed, sources indicate that the bishops called out government inefficiencies, corruption, and the deepening economic crisis that has left millions struggling to afford basic necessities.
The bishops are expected to intensify their advocacy during the Lenten season, using the campaign to challenge leaders and citizens alike to embrace righteousness, truth, and justice in governance.
The Five-Week Spiritual Journey
Faithful across Kenya will engage in weekly reflections based on five key pillars crucial to nation-building:
- Family – The foundation of both the Church and society.
- Corruption – A call to eradicate the vice that continues to cripple Kenya’s progress.
- Youth – Recognizing young people as an untapped resource for transformation.
- Holistic Education – Advocating for an education system that nurtures morals, skills, and national values.
- Care for Our Common Home – Encouraging environmental conservation and responsible stewardship of resources.
Kitui Diocese Prepares for its Own Lenten Launch
As part of the nationwide rollout, the Catholic Diocese of Kitui will hold its official Lenten launch on 9th March 2025 at St. Andrew’s Kwa Vonza. The event is expected to draw thousands from across the region, further amplifying the campaign’s message.
A Call to Action: Will Kenyans Heed the Message?
As Kenya navigates turbulent times, the Catholic Church’s 2025 National Lenten Campaign offers a spiritual and moral compass for a divided nation. But beyond the grand speeches and processions, the real question remains: Will Kenyans, from the ordinary citizen to the highest office, take up the challenge and work toward “The Kenya We Desire”? Only time will tell.
