Church Leaders urged to accompany young people in faith formation following AMECEA call

Catholic Church leaders and communities have been urged to respond to the call by the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) to walk closely with young people and nurture them in the Catholic faith in order to build stronger and faith-filled communities.

The appeal was made by Sr. Mourine Acquinos of the Assumption Sisters of Eldoret, who serves at Moyale Parish. Speaking to Radio Jangwani during an ongoing Catholic youth festival at St. George Laisamis Parish, Sr. Mourine emphasized the need for both Church and community leaders to accompany young people, guide them and help them grow spiritually.

She observed that while significant attention has been given to supporting girls, many young men are increasingly being left behind, a trend she said is reflected in the declining number of male participants in some youth gatherings. Sr. Mourine stressed that nurturing young people in faith requires a joint effort between religious leaders, parents and the wider community.

Her remarks were echoed by Marsabit Cathedral Youth Coordinator Hawo Guyo and Cathedral Catechist John Timado, who called on parents to spend more time with their children, listen to their concerns and provide guidance rooted in Christian values.

The two leaders noted that open communication within families is essential in helping young people overcome challenges while remaining connected to the Church and its teachings.

Meanwhile, Fr. Daniel Lelerai of Laisamis Parish praised the youth rally, describing it as a unique opportunity for young Catholics from different parishes to interact, share experiences and learn how to serve the Church faithfully and with integrity.

According to Fr. Lelerai, such gatherings strengthen the faith of young people and encourage them to become active participants in the life and mission of the Church.

The rally comes just weeks after the 21st AMECEA Plenary Assembly held in Kenya, where bishops from Eastern Africa reaffirmed the importance of accompanying young people in their faith journey. The bishops called on the Church to help young people discover their dignity, understand their rights and responsibilities, and discern their vocation in life.

The AMECEA Assembly, held under the theme of journeying with young people, emphasized youth accompaniment as a pastoral priority and encouraged dioceses, parishes, families and Catholic institutions to work together in forming a generation grounded in faith, hope and Christian values.