Thousands of Catholic faithful across Kenya gathered on Friday to commemorate Good Friday, a deeply significant day in the Christian calendar marking the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
From urban centers to rural parishes, worshippers participated in solemn Way of the Cross processions, reflecting on the 14 Stations of the Cross that trace Jesus’ journey to Calvary.
In Nairobi, hundreds assembled at the Holy Family Minor Basilica, where Nairobi Archbishop Philip Anyolo led the faithful in prayer and reflection. Delivering a powerful message, Archbishop Anyolo urged both leaders and citizens to uphold moral integrity and reject societal vices such as corruption. “Christ’s life was a model of selflessness and integrity. As Christians and leaders, we must emulate these values and lead by example,” he emphasized.
At Consolata Shrine in Westlands, Fr. Joseph Mzito highlighted the need for justice and a deeper relationship with God. Similar sentiments were echoed in Mombasa, where Archbishop Martin Kivuva of the Holy Ghost Cathedral appealed for peace and political tolerance, urging young people not to fall prey to incitement.
In Kiambu County, faithful from St. Anne and St. Joachim of Riara Parish took part in processions led by Fr. Gabriel Kiranga, reenacting the Passion of Christ. In Embu, worshippers from Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church walked through the streets of Embu town, stopping to pray at each station.
Other counties including Bungoma and Kakamega also held similar processions, with recurring themes of faith, justice, and moral renewal resonating throughout the country.
Good Friday, observed globally on the Friday before Easter, is part of Holy Week—the final and most sacred week of Lent. It culminates in Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the Christian message of hope and redemption.