His Lordship Rt. Rev. John Mwandi has celebrated the Annual Diocesan Catholic Men Association (CMA) Mass at Holy Family Kabati Parish, where 59 CMA members have been commissioned into the St. Joseph Devotion. The 59 members include 40 from St. Patrick’s Mutune Parish, 18 from Queen of Apostles Mbondoni Parish, and one from Holy Family Kabati Parish.
In his homily, Bishop Mwandi advised Catholic men to understand Christian leadership not in terms of physical strength, power or material possessions, but as a responsibility rooted in their relationship with God. He emphasized that true strength comes not from muscles, wealth or status, but from trust in God, saying, “A man’s strength is not measured by his muscles or power, but by his faith in God.” He urged the CMA members to make their faith the foundation of their lives and families, reminding them that, as leaders of the families entrusted to them by God, their leadership should be reflected in their willingness to listen to the Word of God and in the integrity with which they care for and guide their families.
He encouraged the men to remain faithful to God even when they have little, urging them not to wait until they receive greater blessings before demonstrating their faithfulness. “Do not wait until God gives you bigger things to become faithful. Start with the little you have, and God will bless you with more,” he said.
The Bishop further called on the men to be role models to their children by cultivating good Christian values within their families. He noted that children learn by observing their parents and often imitate what they see as they grow.
Bishop Mwandi also encouraged the men to cultivate a life of prayer, humility and forgiveness. He urged them to be ready to apologize and seek forgiveness whenever they are wrong, while encouraging them to lead their families by example. “A man who prays is not weak. When you apologize, you are not weak. Failing to ask for forgiveness is the weakness,” he said.
He urged them to distance themselves from anything that could hinder the growth of their faith and to remain committed to nurturing a strong Christian life within their families. He also encouraged them to deepen their love for God and for others, especially those in need of their help as Christians.
The Bishop stressed the importance of humility over pride, noting that humble and faith-filled leadership contributes to happy, united and strong families.
Following the Mass, a Harambee was held to support CMA operations and help the association achieve its goal of self-reliance.
Also present during the celebration were Fr. Julius Muthamba ((Parish Priest, Kabati Parish), Fr. Paul Mathenge (CMA Chaplain), Fr. Antony Mutio (Parish Priest, Mutito Parish) and Deacon Augustus Wambo.