The righteous person will live by his faith. These are strong words that God speaks to the Israelites through the prophet Habakkuk. The prophet had cried to God despairingly because of the state of Jerusalem where injustice and oppression prevailed. The prophet wonders why God has allowed this misery and violence to continue. Is this not our experience today? We pray for peace yet war seems to prevail. We pray for unity yet we see divisions. It is in such moments when like Timothy, we are called to stand by our faith and witness Christ through the Holy Spirit. Lastly Christ reminds us that we need not pride on what we achieve because we are only serving our master. O Lord increase our faith.

28^th Sunday of the Year

2 Ki 5.14-17, 2 TIM 2.8-13; Lk 17.11-19

“Thank you.” These two words seem simple but they mean a lot in human life. When we appreciate what has been done to us by others, we actually acknowledge the Word incarnate and the work of the Holy Spirit in humanity. In the first reading, Naman appreciated that he had been healed and in return, professed his faith in one God. In the Gospel reading, those who were healed were ten. Only the Samaritan came back to thank Jesus. Today, we are filled by concepts of Justice and human rights that we are not ready to say thank you. To some it even sounds like a weakness to say thank you. How often do we remember to say thanks to those who serve us: parents, spouses, our superiors, civil servants, etc?

29^th Sunday of the Year

Ex.17.8-13; 2 Tim 3.14-4.2 Lk 18.1-8

The Word of God is an inevitable tool of evangelization. Saint Paul vividly defines what is Scripture and its purpose. He says: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living, so that the person who serves God may be fully qualified and equipped to do every kind of good deed”. It is sure that we can not preach the one we have not known. We are challenged today to be real witnesses of Christ by reading his words so that we may know what he wants of us. The first reading reminds us of our duty to pray and the assistance we ought to give to our brethren at moments when they are desperate. Let us lift up our hands in prayer.

30^th Sunday of the Year

Sir 35.12-14, 16-18; 2 Tim 4.6-8, 16-18; Lk 18.9-14

This poor man called, the Lord heard him. Prayer is a humble non conditional submission to the will of the Divine. Our God is omniscience hence we can not hide or play him tricks. The readings remind us that we ought to be humble in prayer. Christ himself is our best example who humbled himself before the Father. It is unfortunate that sometimes we play the role of the Pharisee. We feel that we are closer to God than others. Even if this is the case, we are called to pray for sinners and not to condemn them. Saint Paul was open to the will of God and this is why he says his life is like a libation. He recounts his sufferings and success and commits all to the Divine will. The reward that Paul anticipates to receive is also reserved for us if we humble ourselves before the Lord.

By Fr F Maundu (Urbaniana-Roma)

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FEAST OF THE MONTH - ST. LUKE THE EVANGELIST

The harvest is rich, but the labourers are few”. Luke was born of a pagan family but later converted to Christianity, a Doctor who accompanied Paul on his second and third Missionary journeys. He stayed with him in Rome while Paul was in captivity. Luke wrote his Gospel in accordance with the Apostle’s preaching and also wrote the account of the early days of the church, up to the time of Paul’s First sojourn in Rome, in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. From the preface to the Gospel, it indicates that Luke was not an eye witness or immediate disciple of the Lord; He himself states that he had carried out an extensive research and had written an orderly account about Jesus.

The extra – ordinary feature of Luke’s work is the presence of Acts, which conveys the distinctive and comprehensive perspectives of Luke – which is the actual fulfilling of the prophecies of Isaiah in the proclamation of the Gospel to the ends of the earth. This inclusion of the gentiles is often referred to as Luke’s Universalism or concern for all humanity. (Lk: 2: 14, 24:47)

The Gospel according to St. Luke displays a keen interest in individuals, social out casts, women, children and social relationships especially situations involving poverty or wealth. The Gospel has special stress on prayer and the Holy Spirit which results in a striking note of Joyfulness and praise. These features tell us something about Luke as a person and his understanding of Christianity. Being a companion to Paul tells us that Luke was in Philippi (his home town) and that he joined Paul on his way to Jerusalem and stayed with Philip at Caesarea (Acts 21: 1-18), then after Paul’s two years imprisonment in Caesarea, Luke sailed with him to Rome (Acts 27: 1 – 28: 16). Luke died at the age of 84 Years.

REFLECTIONS

From Luke’s Gospel, it is very clear that he valued those rejected, out casts and considered of low class. Do we value them in our society and come close to them like Jesus to assist them in their need?

According to St. Luke, prayer and the presence of the Holy Spirit in oneself results into Joyfulness and praise. What attitude do we have for prayer and does the Holy Spirit dwell in us such that we are moved to do good?

Luke fulfilled the will of God in his life, then what is my purpose here on earth and what does God want me to do?

Like St. Luke, let us move out and preach the Gospel for the conversion of heart since the Kingdom of God is close at hand and more so, “The harvest is rich and the labourers are few”. May the prayer of St. Luke strengthen us in our mission.

Rev. Fr. Alphonse K. Muema

Daystar University

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CONGRATULATIONS!

We wish to congratulate Fr. Boniface Nzomo and Fr. Domnic Malai, for taking the bold step to venture into a first world country as the first Missionaries from Machakos Diocese. We wish you a fruitful ministry in the Diocese of Santa Rosa, California. May you be the leaven of faith, to every one you meet and interact. Be assured of our prayers and support in your ministry. Thank you!

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“YES LORD”

It was a great day on 21^st August when a team of seven people from Caritas Japan from the National office – Caritas Kenya visited our Diocese. Their objectives were to see the progress of YES LORD PROJECT which targets women living with HIV/AIDS, Orphaned children and widows. We visited three women groups based at Katoloni Parish. It was good to see how the lives of these women have been changed through small businesses like agriculture, chicken rearing, and production of home made detergents among others. They also witnessed the impact of food for work in that area. Thank you National Team from Caritas Office Kenya for honoring us with such a visit and above all for bringing us visitors.

Prepared by

Regina Muthama

PDC – KATOLONI PARISH

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WATER IS LIFE

“Yes Water is life”. The chairlady of Kasikeu Parish Mrs. Agnes Kamuye also a committee member of CDF at Kasikeu division in collaboration with the local government leaders and the Father incharge Rev.Fr. Muthoka have worked tirelessly to ensure that the institutions around the area benefit from Constituency Development Fund. The DO officially launches the flow of water at Kasikeu dispensary which came through CDF money. Thanks to the area MP and other local Government leaders for that support.

Sr. Bernadette Munyao

Women/Men Co - ordinator

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CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF KITALE VISIT MACHAKOS DIOCESE

A group of 23 CWA members led by their co-ordinator Mrs. Pauline Ngina Olando and Sr. Cheptoo arrived at Machakos Cathedral on 17/8/07at 5.15pm and were received by our Vicar General, Mons. Alfons Mondiu, DDS Staff led by their co-ordinator – Francis Kikolya and the CWA/CMA Secretariat led by their Co-ordinator – Sr. Bernadette Munyao. The group came to learn the successes of CWA and CMA members in our Diocese on evangelization and development strategies and to exchange ideas. On 18/8/07 they visited our Media Centre and proceeded to Komarock Parish – Thanks to Fr. Dean of Kanzalu Deanery – Fr. Boniface Nzomo, Fr. Thomas Vadassery – Fr. In-Charge of the shrine and all the priests and sisters, leaders and the laity for their warm welcome.

We highly appreciate the Kamuthanga Women Self – Help Group for the warm welcome you accorded our visitors. After the worship Fr. Boniface Nzomo encouraged the faithful to remain united as brothers and sisters of both Dioceses in proclaiming the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ. The visit of Kitale Diocese is a living evidence of the solidarity of the Holy spirit in our church and the echoing of the universal nature of our church by working together SO THAT ALL MAY BE ONE. We highly thank our Bishops in the two Dioceses for making such interactions a success (“NUNDU TWI MA KIAMBA”) Komarock shrine is a place where one can communicate to God intimately and experience a healing atmosphere, a place to share our faith with others. It is a beautiful place where we meet our loving mother who is ready to receive us, listen to us and pray for us.

On 19/8/07 the group attended mass at the Cathedral and interacted with the Christians. Later in the evening the Kitale group and the hosts visited the martyrs of Uganda children home at Kimutwa where they presented gifts of foodstuffs to the orphans. Thanks to the Administration for taking good care of these children.

During our evaluation, we recommended that, exchange visit programmes to be encouraged and to involve all the groups in the Diocese. This would help the CMA/CWA to succeed in evangelization and avoid imbalance in Spiritual Development in our church. Lastly we thank the Bishop of Kitale Diocese and all the Christians for the food they donated to us during the period of drought last year.

Patrick Mutungi — Vice — Chairman Diocesan CMA Secretariat & Secretary Diocesan Lay Council

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OPENING OF DIVINE MERCY SHRINE AT KALIMANI – KYUMBI PARISH

On the Feast of the Triumph of the cross, the faithful – mainly from Kyumbi Parish gathered at St. Theresa’s outstation Church resolute in their mood for prayer as they began the special day of prayer and blessing of the Divine Mercy Shrine up the hill. Reflections on the meaning of the Cross of Jesus in our lives were given by Rev. Vincent of Kyumbi Parish. Then followed by silent personal reflections and confession in order to have close communion with God by recalling (Is 59/1-2) “See, the arm of Yahweh is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear, but your guilty deeds have made a gulf between you and your God. Your sins have made him hide his face from you so as not to hear you.” The faithful began the way of the cross and Divine Mercy Chaplet as they made their way up to the top of the hill where a beautiful shade, altar and cement seats have already been constructed (Thanks to Fr. Battista and Team).

The sight is reminiscent of the Komarock shrine and overlooks Kyumbi area and Mombasa Highway. No doubt it will be a sight to behold for all and Sunday when the plans for its future development and enthroning of the statue of the Divine Mercy image of Jesus are put in place. Monsignor Alphonce Mondiu the Vicar General blessed the shrine and celebrated Mass. Rev. Fr. Chrles Kyallo gave the homily. He recommended that the faithful get a copy of Pope John Paul II’s Encyclical on the Mercy of God – on certain aspects of the Celebration of the sacrament of Penance (2002).

He also recommended that they read the Diary of Sr. Faustina on Divine Mercy and Revelation of Jesus. He distributed booklets and handouts as well as the Divine Mercy Picture of Jesus with Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

He urged the faithful to learn to confess well by mentioning the commandment, the sin, circumstances and how many times – e.g. “I broke the first commandment by going to the witch doctor three times…..etc”. Diary No. 1448: Says “Tell souls to go for confession …. My mercy ….. Many miracles will happen.

He drew attention to Diary No 327 – which refers to the Divine Mercy picture with the inscription (Signature) “Jesus, I trust in You”. Diary No 754 talks of God as the merciful Father now but he will be a judge after our death.

Diary No 1441 says encourage souls to say the Chaplet of Divine Mercy; they will be granted every thing they ask for.

The 9 day Novena of Divine Mercy is to begin on Good Friday and end on Holy Saturday

Diary No 300 – Celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday on the 2^nd Sunday of Easter .Diary No 1109 – says “The soul that goes for confession and receives Holy communion on this 2^nd Sunday of Easter is granted complete pardon and punishment for sin is removed provided one fulfils the conditions.

Be Apostles of Divine Mercy, by doing the following.
Tell others about God’s Mercy
Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy
Observe the Divine Mercy Sunday on the 2^nd Sunday of Easter
Enthrone the picture of Divine Mercy in Your house/home/institutions.
Observe the hour of mercy at 3 O’clock.

It is our prayer and wish, that the beautiful plans we have for this shrine may be fulfilled very soon. May our dear loving Mother Mary intercede for us as we make these preparations and look forward to the “doors” of the shrine opening to the entire Diocese and indeed the world, “That all may be one”. May the soul of Maximo, who made the contribution towards the construction of the Shrine, rest in eternal peace. Uw’o Congratulate many Christians who made the efforts to obtain this hill for the worship of God. Some have gone to the Lord, others are with us.

Compiled By

Mrs. Jane Mandina (Machakos Teachers College)

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PREISTS RETREAT

All Diocesan Priests Retreat will begin on the 22nd of October in the evening and end on 25th. May you have an inner awakening and a deeper experience of the Lord!

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PASTORAL LETTER OF THE CATHOLIC BISHOPS IN KENYA ON THE FORTHCOMING GENERAL ELECTIONS 2007

LOVE GOD AND LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR

Elections in Kenya 2007

INTRODUCTION

Our dear Catholics and all people of good will, we are approaching the important moment of general Elections in our country. We will be called to elect leaders at all levels: Councilors, Members of Parliament and the President. The time for decision is now. The future of our country is at stake.

Kenya is a democracy. We the people of Kenya are going to decide on our fate through this democratic process. In the first place, all registered voters have the right and the obligation to vote. Not to vote will only leave more space for wrong leaders to be elected. We therefore urge every one who is eligible to vote to do so.

KENYA AS A UNIFIED NATION

“May They All Be One” (John 17: 21). These words of Jesus Christ inspire us because they are valid for us, and for all time. He commanded that we love one another. It is the will of God that we appreciate our diversity and promote unity in our country. Genuine love for our neighbour is the true foundation of a united Nation. We must therefore reject any leader who preachers hatred or who indulges in divisive politics. We must be truly proud to be Kenyan. Genuine patriotism is when all can say sincerely. “My Country is Kenya; I am a Kenyan”. This is the ideal that we as wananchi must desire and work for; that we must teach our children and that our leaders must promote. Our National Anthem contains this rich message, when we sing …. “Let all with one accord in common bond united. Build this nation together and the glory of Kenya, the fruits of our labour. Fill every heart with thanksgiving”. Indeed, the whole national anthem is a great prayer, which needs to be said in all institutions of learning, places of work, in parliament, gatherings and functions.

CORRUPTION

One of the main factors that hinder our progress is corruption. In Kenya today it seems that in some cases it is not who you are that matters but whom you know. There have been many complaints that when looking for employment it is not how qualified you are but whom you know and the ethnic group to which you belong.

Our main roads are being destroyed by over loaded trucks, who break the law. Why? Some people think they are above the law and break it with impunity. Why? We strongly condemn the practice of buying the Youth to engage in poll violence. This is indeed a form of corruption. We must demand from the political and civic that they be above reproach in matters of corruption. Only honest, upright and credible leaders should be elected. We need value driven leaders.

To be continued in the next issue….

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CONDOLENCES

The Diocese wishes to pass our heart felt condolences to Fr. Francis Kioko who lost his brother James Munyao and to Fr. Patrick Muoka who lost his brother Victor Mutisya . Feel our support. We pray that may God in His eternal love hear your every prayer and strengthen and sustain you through the sorrow that you bear. May your beloved brothers enjoy the beatific vision in Heaven. Pole Sana and take courage.

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BISHOP’S DIARY

OCTOBER

2-5th Caritas A.G.M (Nairobi)

5-6th Kitui Diocese

13th Kitui Diocese

16th Deans Meeting Mks

19th Mua Hills Girls Secondary

20th Teresa D’Lima Girls Kyumbi

21st Makindu Parish (Consecration and blessing of New Church)

22nd Diocesan Priests Meeting

22-25^th Retreat (Pastoral Centre)

25th Caritas Partners Nairobi

27-28th Kithangaini Parish (Confirmation)

NOVEMBER

3rd Thanksgiving Mass towards the Diocesan Support (Muvothi)

At Cathedral 10.00 AM

10th Makueni Parish (Profession)

11th Cathedral (RNDM’s Thanks Giving mass for 40 years of their service in Kenya)

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FINAL PROFESSION - MATUU PARISH

On the 15^th of august 2007, the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions were privileged to have Sisters Josephine, Lucia and Felistus make their final commitment, which was held in St. Paul’s Catholic Church Matuu where the sisters have worked in this parish in various ministries. Monsignor Alfonse Mondiu the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Machakos was the main celebrant assisted by a number of priests the mass. In his homily, the Vicar General put emphasis on the simplicity of a missionary and the value of obedience among others virtues. He commented on the services offered by the sisters to the people of Matuu and Kenya at large and encouraged the sisters to keep up the good work. We express our gratitude to the Matuu parish who hosted us and all who participated in preparation and for all who made the day as colorful as it was. Finally we thank the three sisters for their generosity and encourage them to be women with a heart for the missions. Congratulations and thanks to all.

Faith and Nancy (R.N.D.M Novices)

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HEARTY WELCOME!

We wish to welcome The Assumption Sisters of Eldoret to Mwala Parish for the teaching Apostolate and The Assisi Sisters of Mary Immaculate to Mlolongo Parish for Health ministry. We pray that your vision and Mission of witnessing Christ in our Diocese and the entire humanity may be fulfilled. Wish you all the best!

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Youth is the reason of hope, enterprise and energy to a Nation

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Catholic Diocese of Machakos

P.O. Box - 344 -90100 Machakos

Tel. +254-44-20484; Fax. +254-44-21308

E-mail: bishopsomks@wananchi.com

Website: http/www.machakosdiocese.org