As the sun rose over Kenya on March 5, marking the beginning of the Lenten season, a profound sense of reflection, hope, and purpose filled the air. The 2025 Lenten Campaign has commenced under the resounding theme “The Kenya We Desire,”a clarion call to Christians across the nation to envision and work towards a country rooted in justice, peace, and unity. This campaign is not merely about spiritual introspection but an urgent invitation to align our desires with the values of God’s Kingdom, transforming both hearts and societies.
A Vision Beyond Division and Despair
The Kenya we desire is far removed from the divisions, corruption, and despair that have marred its progress. Instead, it is a land where all citizens—especially the marginalized—can thrive; where leadership is marked by integrity; and where every individual genuinely seeks the welfare of others. Since March 5, Kenyans have been encouraged to reflect deeply on their aspirations for the nation and ask themselves whether these desires resonate with divine principles. Lent invites us to purify our intentions, fostering transformation that begins within each heart and radiates outward into the fabric of society.
In the face of persistent challenges such as political instability, economic hardship, and social injustice, the Christian mandate extends beyond prayer. It calls for active participation in healing and unifying the nation through tangible actions. As stewards of faith, we must commit ourselves to creating a Kenya that reflects the justice, peace, and compassion Christ envisions for His people.
Guidance from St. Thomas Aquinas
Navigating the complexities of modern governance and societal issues often presents moral dilemmas where decisions may yield both positive and negative outcomes. Herein lies the relevance of St. Thomas Aquinas’ Doctrine of Double Effect, which offers guidance when faced with such scenarios. Aquinas teaches that if our primary intention is good—even if unintended adverse effects arise—the action may still be morally justifiable provided the harm is proportionate and unavoidable.
For instance, enforcing laws to combat corruption might inadvertently disadvantage certain individuals or groups. However, if the ultimate goal is to protect the common good, then the decision aligns with higher moral responsibilities. This principle underscores the importance of examining our motives carefully, ensuring they are guided by wisdom, justice, and God’s will.
Five Thematic Pillars for Reflection
To help shape the collective vision of “The Kenya We Desire,” the Lenten campaign focuses on five key thematic areas, explored weekly throughout the season:
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Family Unity:
The first week emphasized the foundational role of families in building peaceful societies. Families are the primary institutions where values are instilled, making them instrumental in nurturing unity at a national level. Strengthening family bonds lays the groundwork for a cohesive and harmonious nation.
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Corruption-Free Society :
Week two tackled corruption head-on, urging Kenyans to cultivate a deep-seated aspiration for accountability and transparency. Eradicating corruption requires more than policy changes—it demands a cultural shift grounded in ethical living and shared responsibility.
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Empowering Youth:
In the third week, attention turned to the youth, who represent Kenya’s untapped potential. Investing in young people means equipping them with opportunities to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
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Holistic Education:
The fourth week highlighted the need for an education system that nurtures intellect alongside character. By prioritizing holistic learning, we prepare future generations to become responsible, empathetic leaders capable of steering the nation toward prosperity.
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Environmental Stewardship:
Finally, the fifth week underscores the critical importance of caring for our common home. Environmental degradation threatens not only present livelihoods but also those of future generations. A renewed commitment to sustainable practices ensures the preservation of God’s creation for years to come.
Each theme serves as a mirror reflecting both personal and societal shortcomings while challenging us to embrace transformative change.
Desiring the Good of All
Central to this Lenten journey is the call to consider what we want not only for ourselves but also for others. As Christians, we cannot rest contentedly in individual blessings while others suffer. True fulfillment comes from desiring the collective good—a society founded on equality, justice, and compassion. This perspective compels us to advocate for policies and practices that uplift the marginalized, empower the oppressed, and give voice to the voiceless.
Moreover, the challenge extends beyond spiritual aspirations to practical commitments. Whether in workplaces, political arenas, communities, or homes, Kenyans are tasked with embodying virtues like integrity, love, and justice. Just as salt seasons food and light dispels darkness, so too must we act as agents of change, bringing flavor and illumination to every corner of our nation.
Lessons from Scripture and Tradition
Scripture provides poignant reminders of the power of purified desires. Consider the words of the repentant thief crucified alongside Jesus: “Remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42). His plea for redemption exemplifies the humility required to acknowledge our flaws and seek alignment with God’s purposes. Similarly, during Lent, we are called to cleanse our desires, ensuring they align with the Kingdom of God and prioritize the well-being of all, especially the vulnerable.
Turning to tradition, Mother Mary stands as the epitome of surrendering one’s will to God. As the “handmaid of the Lord,” she demonstrated unwavering trust in divine plans. Her intercession now guides our prayers, inspiring us to emulate her example of selflessness and devotion. Through her maternal care, may we fully grasp God’s vision for Kenya and labor together to see it realized.
A Collective Responsibility
Building the Kenya we desire is no small feat—it requires collective effort and unwavering resolve. Leaders must govern with integrity, prioritizing the needs of the many over the interests of the few. Citizens must hold themselves accountable, rejecting apathy and embracing civic responsibility. Together, we can forge a path toward a prosperous, just, and compassionate nation.
This Lenten season, which began on March 5, serves as a sacred opportunity to recalibrate our priorities, align our desires with God’s will, and take decisive steps toward meaningful change. Let us heed the words of Rt. Rev. Simon Peter Kamomoe, Chairman of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Justice and Peace Department: “Let us remember that the Gospel challenges us to be salt and light in the world.”
As dawn breaks on another day in Kenya, let us rise with renewed determination. Let us pray fervently, act courageously, and dream boldly of a Kenya where justice reigns, peace prevails, and unity flourishes. May this Lenten journey inspire us to work hand-in-hand, trusting that God’s grace will guide us toward the Kenya we truly desire.
Have a blessed Lent. Amen.
