Kisumu, 01 September, 2023 / 9:26 pm (ACI Africa).
The Bishop of Kenya’s Homa Bay Diocese has emphasized the value of listening, and acknowledged with appreciation its role in the formation and ministry of women and men Religious.
In his homily during the Silver, Golden, and Diamond Jubilee celebration of 19 members of the Congregation of Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph (FSJ, Asumbi Sisters Kenya) at St. Theresa's Asumbi Parish of his Episcopal See, Bishop Michael Odiwa reflected on Luke’s Gospel story of Mary and Martha in the company of Jesus.
“Jesus praises Mary for choosing the better (part) because she is listening. It is only through listening that one is able to correct,” Bishop Odiwa said in his homily during the Thursday, August 31 event during which six FSJ members made their perpetual profession.
“Listening merits when there is the ability to correct,” the Kenyan Catholic Bishop said, and added, “Our sisters have been listening throughout formation, throughout community life, in persevering; and today we see the reason why they are celebrating the jubilees.”
He urged the jubilarians and those who were taking their final vows to emulate Mary in listening, saying, “Today we want to thank God who has given us the spirit of Mary to listen, to understand, and to pattern our lives.”
