Bishop Simon Peter Komomoe Calls for Equity and Unity Among Kenyans During Ash Wednesday Mass

By Andrew Mbuva 

The Bishop of the Wote Catholic Diocese has called on Kenyans to embrace justice, unity, and equality as fundamental pillars in building a peaceful and cohesive nation.

Speaking during the Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Joseph’s the Worker Wote Parish, Bishop Simon Peter Komomoe urged Christians to use the Lenten season as a period of reflection, prayer, fasting, and acts of charity, while emphasizing the need for fairness in the distribution of national resources.

The Bishop noted that the commencement of Lent marks a significant spiritual journey for Christians, reminding the faithful that the 40-day season is not only about personal sacrifice but also about demonstrating compassion and solidarity with the less fortunate in society.

“Today we begin a very important spiritual journey of fasting, prayer, and helping those who are less fortunate, because charity is part of the calling of every Christian,” he said.

He emphasized that this year’s Lenten campaign theme challenges Kenyans to pray and actively participate in building a just, peaceful, and united country where every citizen is treated with dignity and respect.

“We are called as Kenyans and as Christians to build a Kenya that is just, peaceful, and united, while upholding equality and respect for every human being,” the Bishop stated.

He reminded congregants that Christianity teaches that all people are children of God, regardless of their ethnic or social background, warning that tribal divisions undermine national unity and contradict Christian teachings.

“Before God, there is no Luo, no Kamba, no Kikuyu, and no Kalenjin. Before God, we are all equal, and therefore we must treat one another with fairness and dignity,” he said.

The cleric further challenged leaders to ensure equitable distribution of resources across all regions of the country, cautioning against situations where certain areas benefit disproportionately while others remain marginalized.

“Kenya belongs to all of us. If resources are shared fairly and every region is treated equally, that is the only way we can achieve lasting peace,” he added.

The Bishop also encouraged Christians to remain actively involved in nation-building, noting that the Church has a vital role in guiding society towards justice and moral integrity.

“Christians are called to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth. We must lead by example by promoting justice, peace, and unity in our communities,” he said.

Addressing the prevailing drought affecting parts of the country, the Bishop urged Christians observing fasting to extend their sacrifice by supporting vulnerable families facing food shortages, noting that Lent offers believers an opportunity to demonstrate genuine love through acts of generosity.

“When we fast, we should also remember those who are suffering and use that opportunity to support those who cannot support themselves, especially those affected by drought,” he urged.

At the same time, he warned against the politicization of places of worship, expressing concern over early political campaigns and urging leaders to respect churches as sacred spaces meant for spiritual nourishment and unity.

“We urge politicians to respect churches and not use them as platforms to create division among the people,” he cautioned.

He concluded by calling upon Kenyans to remain steadfast in prayer and collective responsibility, noting that achieving a just and peaceful nation requires unity, mutual respect, and commitment to fairness for all citizens.