Pope Francis celebrated mass with thousands of Catholic faithful’s in Nairobi, calling for peaceful co-existence, harmony and strong family values.

The University of Nairobi was parked since early morning as Kenyans streamed in singing hymns, while braving the rains in readiness to celebrate the papal Mass.

Those who could not make it to the university grounds opted to join others at Uhuru and Central parks, where they followed the mass on huge mounted television screens.

In his message, the pontiff asked the youth to be at the forefront in promoting peace, concern for the poor, while rejecting things that leads to prejudice and discrimination.

“Here, in the heart of this university, where the minds and hearts of new generations are being shaped, I appeal to the young people of the nation to the great values of Africa’s traditions, the wisdom and truth of God’s Word, and the generous idealism of your youth guide you in working to shape a society, which is ever more just, inclusive and respectful of human dignity,” he said.  

The Pope also called on Kenyans to continue embracing strong family values based on the Word of God and African traditions adding that the Kenyan society has long been blessed with strong family life, a deep respect for the wisdom of the elderly and love for children.  

“The health of any society depends on the health of its families. Our faith in God’s Word calls us to support families in their mission in society, to accept children as a blessing for our world, and to defend the dignity of each man and woman,” he said.

The pontiff also urged Christians to foster respect for one another in order to live in harmony among themselves.

“In obedience to God’s Word, we should resist practices which foster arrogance in men, hurt or demean women, and threaten the life of the innocent unborn. We are called to respect and encourage one another, and to reach out to all those in need,” Pope Francis said.

The pontiff also stressed that Christian families have the special mission to radiate God’s love, and to spread the life-giving waters of his spirit. This, according to Pope Francis is important today, because of the rise in the culture of materialism and indifference to others.

The mass was graced by President Uhuru Kenyatta, former President Mwai Kibaki and former Prime Minister and opposition leader Raila Odinga. Archbishop of Nairobi John Cardinal Njue expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for visiting Kenya and conducting the public mass.

“We are greatly indebted to you for this gesture, your visit here has been a source of strength and spiritual nourishment. We are also grateful to President Kenyatta for ensuring the success of the Pope’s visit and constantly monitoring preparations” Cardinal Njue said.