Bishop Henry Juma Odonya today presided over a Holy Mass dedicated to families and marriage life for the Trans Nzoia Pastoral Area within the Diocese. The Mass was held at Christ the King Mitume Parish.

In his homily, the Bishop emphasized that the family is a vital pillar of society and that strong family foundations are built primarily through faith in Christ, the Word of God and the Eucharist. The Bishop also urged married couples to entrust their families to God through prayer, seeking His protection, blessings and strength to face life’s various challenges.

Reflecting on the Apostle Paul’s teachings regarding the resurrection, the Bishop explained that new life requires letting go of the old. He used the analogy of a seed planted in the ground that must die in order to sprout and bear fruit. Similarly, referencing the Parable of the Sower from the Gospel, the Bishop explained that the Word of God must be received into a well-prepared heart to bear fruit.

The Bishop reminded parents of their duty to love, teach and guide their children in the faith and to reveal Christ to them through their own lives and actions. He encouraged families to participate in the Eucharist and to strengthen spiritual formation at home, noting that the Word of God and the Eucharist are sources of strength and healing for the family.

Furthermore, he urged the faithful to pray for families facing challenges, to support them with love and to encourage them to place their trust in Jesus Christ. This annual diocesan Mass aims to pray for families, particularly the lives of married couples. It was organized by the Family Life office under the co-ordination of Mr. Edward Shibanda.

The Mass was attended by priests, including the Parish Priest, Father Daniel Nakameti, and the Diocesan Pastoral Coordinator, Father James Ndombi.