According to the itinerary made public by Vatican Radio, the Pope’s arrival is scheduled for Wednesday, November 25.
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 22 – Pope Francis is looking forward to holding mass in Kenya according to a Kenyan delegation that met him at the Vatican this week.
Representing the County government of Nairobi when he met the Pope, Communications Director Walter Mongare said his enthusiasm was evident.
“I look forward to joining you for the mass in Kenya, those were his words. That is not only confidence but excitement.”
An excitement the delegation brought back with them to Kenya where they testified to his amiable nature.
“I’ve not washed my hand since I shook the Pope’s hand. Until I go and shake my mom who’s a very strong and religious person; we had a wonderful time and he’s looking forward to coming to Kenya,” Mongare enthused.
David Omwoyo who is handling communication for the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops says the Vatican has expressed confidence in Kenya’s handling of his security.
“Unlike other cases where the Holy Father visited the other countries, he has trusted the Government of Kenya and the Catholic Church or rather the people of Kenya to plan his visit without having to send a lot of logistical and material support.
“He has sent a message that he entirely trusts the Government and the Church in Kenya to plan and host him entirely,” Omwoyo informed waiting journalists on their return at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
He also said the Pope’s visit will be built around reconciliation and co-operation and will include a meeting with leaders from across the religious divide.
According to the itinerary made public by Vatican Radio, the Pope’s arrival is scheduled for Wednesday, November 25.
He will then make his way to State House Nairobi where he will, jointly with President Uhuru Kenyatta, address the Kenyan people in a televised broadcast.
A meeting with the civil authorities and the diplomatic corp is scheduled thereafter.
On Thursday he will hold an interreligious and ecumenical meeting at the Apostolic Nunicature in Nairobi, lead a mass at the University of Nairobi and meet Seminarians at the St. Mary’s school before visiting the United Nations offices in Nairobi.
He will wind up his visit to Kenya on Friday when he will visit a slum in Kangemi and meet youths and Bishops at the Kasarani Stadium.
