This gathering was historic in two ways: it was the first held outside of Rome and many of the arrangements were planned and hosted by the Association of the Sisterhoods of Kenya (AOSK). The delegates had the experience of prayer and rituals led by sisters from local congregations as well as opportunites to visit various ministry and cultural sites in and near Nairobi. They also had opportunities to hear and discuss presentations on the political and social profile of Kenya, the presence of the Catholic Church in Africa, the history of religious life in East Africa, social issues impacting women and children and parallels between the goals set forth in the UISG Declaration of 2001 and the U N Millennium Development Goals.
In addition, the delegates had opportunities to integrate intellectual input with profound liturgical experiences enhanced by African music and dance. Local religious introduced the Assembly to a group of “street children” from Kibera, one of the largest slums of Nairobi. This troupe of talented young people presented a series of thought-provoking skits and mimes on changing relationships between women and men as well as entertaining songs and dances. The Sisterhoods of Kenya arranged visits to village markets where the delegates could see and buy local handicrafts. The delegates also visited several ministry sites in Nairobi including the Nyumbani Home for Children Living with Aids, the Huruma Home for the Destitute which is run by the Sisters of Charity of Calcutta, a parish center in Kariobangi where the Comboni sisters and priest serve, and the Don Bosco Boys’ Rehabilitation Center and a local parish, both of which are staffed by the Salesians.
The final action of the Assembly was unanimous approval of a statement crafted by the delegates during the Assembly. To read this statement, click here.
Photographs all show aspects of the Nairobi Assembly. From top left clockwise: Srs. Rita Burley and Sujita explore an authentic tribal home.
The particpants gathered at the close of the Nairobi Assembly in an open air meeting hall.
A youth choir from Kenya greeted delegates and welcomed them to the country and cultures of Kenya.