Kenya: Cardinal appeals to youth 'not be be manipulated by politicians'

Kenyan Cardinal John Njue has appealed to young people to stick more closely to Church teachings and not allow themselves to be misused by politicians. Presiding over a colorful Mass yesterday during a gathering for young people from all 12 deaneries of Nairobi, at Saint Mary's School Ground, Cardinal Njue pointed out that many young people had taken part in Kenya's post election violence. "Many of the young people in the country allowed themselves to be misused by politicians to cause the chaos", he said. The Cardinal told the youth groups, who were accompanied by their chaplains, that he had always looked forward for such a day to meet with the youth in the entire metropolitan archdiocese of Nairobi. "You are dear to me and that is why I have set aside today to meet you", he stressed. The Cardinal reminded the congregation that they were the hope of the family, church and the nation. "This is why the Church has a special mission among youth", he said. The Cardinal also discouraged young people from the fast-growing concept of "come we stay" in their lives. "By so doing you are blocking the necessary matrimonial blessings from God ", he pointed out. Cardinal Njue also welcomed the recent signed agreement between President Mwai Kibaki and Mr Raila Odinga on the country's political future. "As a Church we welcome this move with high hopes." The theme for the youth meeting was: 'You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witness.' During the day there was also poetry, singing and performances of plays based mainly on themes of peace, reconciliation and healing.