Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nairobi (Agenzia Fides)- “ It is with great shock and disbelief that we, together with the rest of the world, witnessed the ugly scenes that befell our Christian sisters and brothers on the evening of Sunday the 13th 2010, at the Uhuru Park grounds in the Central Business District of Nairobi.” The Catholic Bishops of Kenya said in a statement signed by His Eminence Cardinal John Njue, Archbishop of Nairobi and President of the Bishops' Conference of Kenya. The statement, a copy was sent to Fides, condemned an attack which killed 6 people while people were praying during a demonstration of support for voting 'no' in a referendum on the new Constitution (see Fides 14/6/2010). On 4 August Kenyans will be called to approve or reject the country's new Constitution which has been criticised by the Churches because of an article which in fact opens the way to the legalisation of abortion.
“ We condemn in the strongest words possible the atrocious crimes that were meted out on innocent Kenyans while conducting a prayer service. We extend solidarity with the Bishops and Pastors who organised this successful prayer meeting.” The statement affirms.
“ We pray for the deceased and urge all Kenyans to pray for the souls of these our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives while expressing their democratic right in “defense of life.” We are, however, surprised and shocked that someone decided to exonerate the government from this barbaric act without first waiting for the findings of the investigation of the police.” the document continues
The Bishops also denounce acts of defilement committed the day after the attack on 13 June. “ We also wish to condemn the cowardly acts of vandalism, defilement and irreverent that was witnessed at the Holy Family Basilica on the morning of Monday the 14th of June 2010. This attack was directed against “The Most Blessed Sacrament” which all Catholics hold most Sacred. We deeply protest against this sort of vandalism and condemn categorically the action of the instigators.”.
“ We wish to categorically state that we shall not be intimidated; neither shall our resolve to oppose this flawed draft be dented. Indeed, we express our concern against the personal attacks that have been made through the media and in public against our church leaders simply because they in good conscience have chosen to oppose the draft constitution and urge Kenyans to reject it as a document that is not good for our country.” The Bishops' Conference underlines.
“ We as a country have already witnessed firsthand where this slippery road of violence and intolerance can lead us. We call upon all Kenyans to join hands and resist any elements amongst us that are bent on dividing the country or taking us back to the dark days of violence.. The Catholic Church in Kenya calls on all Kenyans to be united and to speak with one voice of love, respect and understanding regardless of colour, religion, tribe, race or creed, or even position taken on the proposed constitution. ” the Bishops conclude. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 22/6/2010)
