Kenyans await Pope’s message of peace and reconciliation
(Vatican Radio) “It is quite an exciting moment for us. The Holy Father is coming for the first time to Africa, and he chose Kenya as his entrance door.” Ahead of Pope Francis’ arrival in Nairobi on Wednesday, Kenyans shared their hopes and expectations for the papal visit.
Lily Mugombozi is a journalist working for New City Africa, the magazine of the Focolare movement, and will be following every moment of the Pope’s journey. Just like any other person in this country, I really feel blessed and privileged. She spoke with Vatican Radio’s Linda Bordoni.
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“I think God has great things for us,” she said. “First of all, we see Pope Francis as a leader of the world, not only for Catholics, and this is really striking. Last Saturday I participated in a radio program, where some youth were introducing what they are doing, what their preparations for the Holy Father entail. And during the call-in program I was very struck by non-Catholics who were calling in the studio to assure their support for the Holy Father, their joy, and some were saying the Holy Father is a Father to everyone, not only to Catholics.”
Another issue, she said is reconciliation. Mugombozi noted that Pope Francis emphasized the message of reconciliation in his video message to the people of Kenya and Uganda. “I watched his message on Youtube, and he really stresses this, that he hopes that his presence among us will also be a sign of reconciliation. He will speak of reconciliation, and we really do need this in Kenya.” She said she expects the Pope’s message of reconciliation and peace will remain even after Pope Francis concludes his visit.