Kenya. The local press took notice of the meeting, which Claretians in east Africa held to observe the bicentennial of the birth of our founder, St. Anthony Mary Claret. The gathering was preceded by three days of retreat, August 15 – 17, directed by our vicar general, Fr. Rosendo Urrabazo. The event ended with a visit to the people of Mgomongo in Shanzu, where missionaries from all over Africa gave presentations about the various cultures of Kenya.
On Saturday, August 18, the parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Shanzu, Mombasa, organized a celebration, during which Fr. Lagho, vicar general of the archdiocese of Mombasa presided at the Eucharist. Fr. Urrabazo preached the homily and Bernard John, coordinator of the Claretian mission in east Africa assisted. The Mass was very well attended. There was wonderful music as well as ceremonial dance. The Claretian seminarians, as well as other religious, were in attendance. A reception followed the Mass. Frs. Ted Osuala, superior of Kenya, and the pastor, Fr. Hilary Ekeanyanwu addressed those in attendance. The parish choir, students from the Claret child center, schools in in Shanzu and Kiembeno, Wanamaria children, mothers and a Shanzu youth band performed.
On Sunday, Archbishop Boniface Lele of Mombasas celebrated a Mass of thanksgiving, at which Fr. Urrabazo, Fr. Osuala and other Claretians from the area concelebrated.
