AFRICA/KENYA - Thousands attend funeral of assassinated Italian missionary Bishop. “There is no need to preach because the life of Bishop Locati speaks for itself ” says apostolic administrator at the funeral homily

Nairobi (Fides Service)- “There is no need to preach because the life of Bishop Locati speaks for itself” said Mgr John Ngue, Amministratore Apostolic administrator of Isiolo (north-east Kenya) in his homily during the funeral Mass this morning 20 July in Isiolo cathedral for Bishop Luigi Locati, Vicar Apostolic of Isiolo murdered in an ambush on 14 July. “The entire life of Bishop Locati was devoted to loving his people and it remains as a teaching of peace for all of us” Mgr Ngue said recalling Bishop Locati’s 42 years of missionary service in Isiolo where he opened parishes, schools and healthcare centes. “May the example of Bishop Locati guide us all on the road of peace and harmony” he concluded.
“A vast crowd of mourners has gathered inside and outside Isolo cathedral. There is an atmosphere of quiet devotion” Consolata missionary Fr. Gigi Anataloni in Kenya for 17 years told Fides as the funeral was about to begin.
“The President of Kenya Mwai Kibaki, members of parliament and the Italian ambassador are among those present” the missionary said. “The Mass is presided by the papal nuncio in Kenya, Archbishop Alain Paul Lebaupin and concelebrated by 17 bishops. There are about 250 men and women religious and about 2,000 faithful inside the cathedral while at least another 5,000 people have gathered in the cathedral compound outside to follow the funeral”. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 20/7/2005 righe 24 parole 294)