Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Muranga (Fides Service) - On Sunday 24 July over 8,000 children from 34 parishes accompanied by Holy Childhood leaders took part in a special Mass for the annual diocesan Holy Childhood Day organised by the diocese of Muranga in Kenya. The little ones came by all means of transport and many came on foot. The open air Mass celebrated in front of the cathedral started at 10.30 and ended after 2pm. The festive occasion was enhanced by the presence of the papal Nuncio Archbishop Alain Paul Lebeaupin. Fr Eugenio Ferrari, IMC, national director for Kenya of the Pontifical Mission Societies informed Fides about the event. Fr Ferrari is about to travel to Kisumu and Meru to give formation courses for mission animators from various ecclesiastical provinces
For the past three years the local Bishop Peter Kihara has worked closely with priests to promote the Pontifical Mission Societies and to increase mission awareness especially among children Fr Ferrari told Fides. Stressing the importance of Holy Childhood the Bishop made it clear that its aim was not to replace other movements but rather to imbue them with a spirit of mission. Fr Ferrari said it is above all thanks to Bishop Kihara and the diocesan director Sr. Beatrice Njeri that Holy Childhood is so popular and active in Muranga diocese. Both the Bishop and Sr Njeri are firmly convinced of children’s potential in the field of mission.
Kisumu diocese also held its Holy Childhood day on 23 July. The Mass was presided by Bishop Zaccheus Okoth. Diocesan director Sr. Grace Kombo said the children came in good numbers and took an active part with hymns and liturgical dances performed with obvious devotion for the Eucharist. In the past these events were organised by the National PMS Office but for some years now they are organised directly by the diocesan office and director. (AP) (27/7/2005 Agenzia Fides; Righe:30; Parole:336)
