Kenyan Bishops pray for victims of terror attacks

English Africa Service – Vatican City

Reacting to the terror attacks suspected to have been carried out by the Somali-based al-Shabaab militants, Archbishop Philip Anyolo, the newly inaugurated Kisumu prelate and President of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has praised Kenya’ security agencies.

Kenya's security agencies praised

“We commend our National Police Service and all security agencies for their effective response, tireless efforts to ensure the safety of affected persons in the DusitD2 Hotel incident and quick restoration of order. We pray that the almighty God protects and gives them strength to soldier on with dedication in providing their much-needed services for a safe and secure Kenya,” Archbishop Anyolo said.

Health care workers, volunteers, parishioners exhibited patriotism

The Archbishop also paid tribute to volunteers and health care workers who provided vital First Aid and urgent medical attention to save the lives of the affected persons. The Archbishop is further encouraged by the spirit of patriotism that Kenyans exhibited by spreading messages of hope on social media and for the overwhelming response to calls for blood donations.

“As the Catholic Church, we appreciate our local parishes located near the scene of the incident, namely Holy Trinity-Kileleshwa, St. Austin and Consolata Shrine, who mobilised Christians to provide food, soft drinks and water to the rescue teams,” the Archbishop said.

Bishops saddened by young people who embrace violence

Nevertheless, Archbishop Anyolo said the Kenyan Bishops are saddened that some young people have turned to violence and killing. He said the Church will continue to collaborate with the government in encouraging the youth to shun violence.

Spiritual support for the wounded and traumatised

“Aware that healing takes a long time, we call upon all religious leaders and citizens to continue providing spiritual support to those affected and their families. We affirm our commitment to work with the Government to preserve the common good, support the innocent and promote peaceful co-existence,” said the Kisumu prelate.