Malindi: Malindi Interfaith Council leaders Friday joined Catholic faithful in a solemn mass at St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral to honor the late Pope Francis. The gathering, led by Malindi Catholic Bishop Willybard Lagho, brought together representatives from Protestant, Muslim, and Traditional African Religion, including Kaya elders, in a rare display of unity.
According to Kenya News Agency, the leaders eulogized Pope Francis as a beacon of humility, humanity, and environmental stewardship. Bishop Lagho highlighted the pontiff's advocacy for immigrants, reminding leaders that nations were built by immigrants, often under the harsh realities of slavery. He urged Kenyan leaders to emulate Pope Francis's commitment to the downtrodden, especially as the gap between the rich and poor continues to widen in the country.
Rev. Paul Mutunga, Chairman of the Interfaith Council in Malindi, praised the gathering of diverse faiths to mourn a leader of great integrity. He emphasized the importance of humility in leadership, urging leaders to fulfill their divine purpose without oppressing those they serve.
Joseph Karisa Mwarandu, representing the Traditional African Religion, lauded Pope Francis's efforts to unite humanity and uplift the marginalized. He recalled the pontiff's visit to Kenya, where he gave hope to those in low-income communities, affirming their worth.
Sheikh Farhan Abdikadir Mohamed, Programmes Secretary in the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), Malindi, described the loss as profound for society and religious leaders worldwide. On his part, Sheikh Masoud Omar Masoud, Secretary of CIPK Malindi, expressed gratitude to Bishop Lagho for fostering unity among religious leaders in the diocese.
The leaders concluded the mass by signing a condolence book placed at the cathedral entrance, marking their collective respect for a leader who transcended religious boundaries to serve humanity.