NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 22 – President Mwai Kibaki on Monday joined the family of the late founding father of the nation, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta for a memorial service at the Holy Family to mark the 33rd Anniversary since his demise.
On arrival at the venue, the President was received by Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka, Speaker of the National Assembly Kenneth Marende, Chief of Defense Forces Gen Julius Karangi, Mama Ngina Kenyatta and Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura.
During the memorial service celebrated by Bishop James Wainaina, the bishop noted that leadership and legitimate authority comes from God and equated leaders with shepherds.
Bishop Wainana noted that although shepherding is mainly associated with preachers and religious leaders in general, he emphasised that it is a kingly function aimed at protecting God’s flock which is also performed by leaders.
The Bishop, however, noted that rulers should lead as servant leaders as exemplified by Jesus Christ and to mainly focus on creating opportunities for other people develop, add value and benefits to their lives.
Citing the example of Mary the Mother of Jesus, Bishop Wainaina stressed that God raised her status among other women and was honored to become the King’s mother.
He emphasized that humility and selfless service to mankind is not a weakness but an understanding of the great responsibility bestowed upon the leader.
The sermon was drawn from the first letter of St Paul to the Thessalonians (Thess 1:1-5, 8-10) and from the letter of St Paul to the Romans (Romans 5:5-11) Earlier President Kibaki laid a wreath on the first President’s mausoleum next to the Parliament buildings.
In attendance were Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka, Speaker of the National Assembly Kenneth Marende, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Julius Karangi, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta’s family led by Mama Ngina Kenyatta, cabinet ministers Beth Mugo, Prof Sam Ongeri and Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura.
Others who graced the occasion included the Mayor of Nairobi Cllr George Aladwa, and senior government officials.
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