Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa Archbishop Martin Kivuva has urged Christians to use the Christmas season not only as a time of celebration, but also as a moment for reflection, responsibility and renewed commitment to the nation.
In his Christmas message delivered from his residence, the Archbishop drew lessons from the biblical journey of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem, linking it to the civic duty of believers today. He encouraged Christians to actively participate in national affairs, particularly through voter registration, saying meaningful decision-making begins with being counted.
“When Jesus was born, his parents had gone to Bethlehem to be counted for census, I’m appealing to all christians, it’s time for us to be counted on important matters in our country, lets get involved especially by getting registered as voters, for all planning and decision making commences from that point.” Said Kivuva.
The Archbishop also cautioned families against excess during the festive season, urging moderation and financial prudence. While acknowledging Christmas as a time of joy, he warned that careless spending could lead to hardship once the celebrations end.
“As we celebrate, let’s not forget that eating and drinking isn’t just for now, it’s forever, so let’s celebrate with limits, let’s understand that January isn’t far away, let’s know that school fees is just about to start calling.” Kivuva said.
Calling for compassion and generosity, Archbishop Kivuva urged those with more to remember the less fortunate, saying the true meaning of Christmas is found in sharing and caring for the vulnerable in society.
“Let’s also care for those that are not able to fend for themselves. Amongst us, we have poor people, orphans, street children, let’s be ready to invite them, or gift them.” Kivuva appealed.
Expressing concern over rising road accidents during the festive period, the Archbishop issued a special appeal to motorists to exercise caution as families travel to celebrate Christmas.
“We’re praying for all those traveling. To drivers, I included, let’s be keen, recently we’ve seen strange number of accidents on our roads that claimed even entire families, let’s be careful when driving.” The bishop urged.
The Archbishop further called on Christians to pray for peace in countries affected by conflict, including Sudan, Gaza, Ukraine and Russia, noting that Christmas should inspire reconciliation and justice across the world.
“There are war stricken countries, like our neighbors Sudan, it’s time to pray for peace in those countries, pray that justice may prevail, and that their refugees may find peace and get back home safely. I pray that we put a stop to all wars, especially during this festive season, so that everyone can find joy in celebrating.” Kivuva stated.
He also challenged Kenyans to use the festive season to promote unity and peaceful coexistence across tribal, religious and racial lines, saying national cohesion remains essential for social stability and development.
“As we celebrate, let’s use that opportunity to keep us close to God, and most importantly, close to one another, let’s break the walls that divide us, from tribalism to religion, to social status, let’s live as one family in unity.” He said.
