Catholic Bishops from across Kenya have begun their Plenary Assembly sessions in the Catholic Diocese of Embu, marking a historic milestone for the Diocese, which is hosting the gathering for the first time in its 40-year history.
The Bishops, led by the Chairman of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and Archbishop of Kisumu, Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba, arrived in Embu on Monday for the plenary, during which they are expected to deliberate on matters concerning the Catholic Church, the pastoral life of the faithful and the social, economic and political wellbeing of Kenyans.
The Assembly will also provide an opportunity for the Bishops to address issues affecting the country, with a press briefing expected during their stay to communicate the Church’s position on matters of national importance and issues touching on the lives and dignity of ordinary Kenyans.
Welcoming the Bishops to the Diocese, the Bishop of Embu, Rt. Rev. Peter Kimani Ndung’u, described the opportunity to host the Plenary Assembly as a great grace and blessing for the local Church.
He noted that this is the first time the Diocese has hosted the Bishops’ Plenary Assembly since its establishment 40 years ago, describing the occasion as a significant moment in the history of the Diocese.
He explained that the Plenary Assembly is an important consultative forum through which the Bishops collectively reflect on and deliberate on matters affecting the individual dioceses, the universal Church and the country at large.
Bishop Kimani called on the faithful to accompany the Bishops in prayer as they undertake their deliberations, emphasising the importance of spiritual support for the Church’s leadership.
He also invited Christians and people of goodwill to join the Bishops for a solemn Eucharistic celebration on Thursday at Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral, Karurina, Embu. The Mass, to be concelebrated by the Bishops, will offer an opportunity to pray for the Church, the faithful and the nation.
