Vatican Embassy has celebrated the Second Anniversary of Pope Francis in the event that took place at the Apostolic Nunciature’s Office in Manyani West Road, in Nairobi on 13th March 2015.
The event which began after midday was attended by Government officials, Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Heads of Missions and members of the diplomatic Corps, Bishops, Priests, Religious and Laity.
Speaking to the congregation The Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya and South Sudan, His Excellency Archbishop Charles Daniel Balvo said two years have passed since the Cardinals gathered in Conclave - including the Archbishop of Nairobi, His Eminence John Cardinal Njue – and elected as the successor of Saint Peter one among them, who took the name Francis, a name which evokes the image of the man from Assisi, associated with a love for all created things as well as for simplicity in life.
“This year also marks the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the Republic of Kenya, which took place on 12 November 1965,” he said adding that “The relationship between the Holy See and Kenya is older, since a representative of the Pope, known as an Apostolic Delegate, began residence in Mombasa, in 1930, before moving to Nairobi, in October 1959. The status of the mission was changed six years later, from Apostolic Delegation to Apostolic Nunciature, with the establishment of diplomatic relations.”
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| Invited guest at the Apostolic Nunciature in Nairobi Kenya |
He said that Pope Francis has attracted his share of attention during this past year, not the least for his ‘off the cuff’ remarks, some of which have raised a few eyebrows, both within the Catholic Church as well as in society at large. “These have often been made when the Holy Father has been engaged in close interaction with people, often on the occasion of his pastoral visits,” he said adding that “The emphasis on personal contact, as a means of communicating his message - the joy of proclaiming the Good News of Jesus - is one of the most important features of the way in which Pope Francis exercises the office to which he was elected.”
Archbishop Balvo spoke of Pope Francis as a person who is very much at ease in crowds and his desire to be close to people. “I am sure, he has given not a few headaches to those responsible for his security,” he said.
The Apostolic Nuncio commended President of Kenya, His Excellency Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta, and his Deputy President, Mr. William Ruto and the people of Kenya for harmony, the gifts of peace and well-being in the country.
Speaking at the event His Eminence John Cardinal Njue said that he still have the memories of what has happened during the conclave in which he participated. He thanked the Apostolic Nuncio for organizing the event and asked him to send their best regards to the Holy Father.
Reading the Government statement from President Uhuru Kenyata, Senator Beatrice Elachi said that it was a great honour to join the Apostolic Nuncio on that auspicious occasion on behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya to celebrate the 2ndanniversary of the election of His Holiness Pope Francis to the Papacy. “As we observe this historic day, I note with satisfaction the close and fruitful relations that happily exist between Kenya and the Holy See,” read the statement from the President.
“His Holiness Pope Francis is known and respected for his humility and commitment to address the concerns of the poor and the marginalized around the world. He has provided powerful examples in this regard for others to emulate, Kenya and the Holy See, under the Pope's stewardship are indeed united in our goals of championing dialogue and peace, respect for human dignity and rights and the promotion of social justice,” read the statement adding that “We look forward to continued cooperation and stronger ties between the Government of Kenya and the Holy See.”
The president wished the Holy Father Good Health and long life.
By Fr Chrisantus Ndaga; Communication Office, AMECEA