Shanzu: The Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shanzu is spearheading a weeklong campaign to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among worshippers. The initiative comes at a time when schools are on mid-term break, providing an opportunity for wider participation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the campaign's message is entrenched in love, understanding, and spiritual guidance, with the church aiming to foster stronger bonds within the community through faith-driven dialogue and engagement. Fr. Vincent Alicho, the parish priest and a Nigerian missionary, encourages Kenyans to embrace harmony and togetherness at a time when the world is facing upheavals from a raging war in the Middle East to local socio-economic pressures. He emphasised the unwavering commitment of the Church to its mission of fostering peace, as espoused in sacred scriptures.
Fr. Alicho stated, 'If you listen to the words of the Church, you will gain better direction. We have never failed in our teachings; they remain constant. The Church has always stood against societal ills and consistently preached peace and love.' He further added, 'Let me take you to the message of Easter. Jesus said, 'Peace be with you.' If you look at the preaching of the Church, it is always about peace. It is always about love.'
As part of its unity drive, the church has organised a series of activities throughout the week, including Bible quizzes, praise and worship sessions, adoration, and spiritual preparation. The events aim to foster deeper inter-generational understanding and interaction between the youth and the older generation. The week will culminate in a community feast and games next Sunday. All four church outstations will share a meal after the service, followed by fun activities such as football, volleyball, races, and tug-of-war.
Fr. Alicho remarked, 'We are celebrating oneness and togetherness. We come from different places, tribes, and communities, but here in our parish, we are one family.' He added that the initiative is designed to bridge generational gaps and encourage open dialogue among children, youth, and elders.
Church elder Mr. Hillary Muchira praised the initiative and urged other churches across the country to emulate Shanzu's example in nurturing unity among generations. Peter Munyao, the parish's men's chairman, highlighted the need for parents to understand their children and for children to listen to their parents for a harmonious coexistence. 'We are the ones who have given birth to, raised, and educated these children. So, when they come up with something, we must be ready to listen to them and try to understand them,' he said.