MOMBASA County-Jan 1, 2026-As the city slowly woke from the celebrations of New Year, Mombasa Catholic Archdiocese Archbishop Martin Kivuva led a congregation of faithful in a solemn Holy Mass at the Holy Ghost Cathedral, calling on Kenyans to embrace love, peace, and unity in 2026.
The cathedral was filled with worshipers of all ages—some still carrying the gentle weariness of a long night, others arriving bright-eyed and eager to start the year in prayer. The air was thick with incense and the soft hum of hymns, a calm contrast to the fireworks and New Year revelry that had lit Mombasa’s skyline just hours before.
Reflecting on 2025, Archbishop Kivuva acknowledged that the past year had been challenging for many Kenyans, citing economic hardships and societal strains. Yet he offered hope for the year ahead. “God will ease the burdens of the nation in 2026,” he said. “Let this be a year where love, peace, and unity guide our actions, our families, and our nation.”
He encouraged citizens to pray for the country, especially as preparations for the 2027 political campaigns begin. “Let us avoid divisive politics and support leaders with vision and integrity,” the Archbishop said, his voice resonating through the cathedral. “Unity and harmony are our greatest strength as a nation.”
Drawing inspiration from the life of Christ, Archbishop Kivuva reminded the faithful that love is the greatest gift anyone can offer. He urged Kenyans to act with compassion, generosity, and care for the marginalised—visiting the sick, helping the poor, and extending a hand to those in need.
Among the congregation, there were smiles, quiet nods, and a few gentle chuckles as children curiously peeked at the ornate altar, while elders reflected on the year past. Some families quietly exchanged whispered resolutions, promising to begin 2026 with patience, forgiveness, and renewed faith.
As the Mass drew to a close, the Archbishop extended his blessings to all Kenyans. “May 2026 be a year filled with hope, renewed faith, and a commitment to live in love, peace, and unity,” he said. “Let us carry these principles into our homes, our communities, and our nation at large.”
Outside the cathedral, the city was stirring—street vendors preparing for the day, early-morning joggers passing by, and the echoes of distant laughter and lingering fireworks reminding everyone that the New Year had truly arrived. Inside, however, the Archbishop’s words left a quieter but lasting mark—a gentle nudge for hearts to lead the year with compassion, wisdom, and togetherness.
