Pilgrims Journey of Hope and Connection
By Ms. Maureen Obare
A group of US pilgrims led by Fr. Paul Kalenzi, SJ, embarked on a transformative journey to Nairobi, eager to explore the local culture and forge new connections. Their adventure began with a visit to the Proposed Hekima University (PHU) directorate, Hekima University College, and the Hekima Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations. Here, they delved into discussions on the different projects and experienced the vibrancy of the local community.
Their next stop was Saint Aloysius Secondary School in Kibera, a beacon of hope nestled in Kibra. The journey continued with a visit to Kangemi Parish, where the pilgrims joined the community for Mass. The parish’s projects focused on uplifting and empowering the local population, offered a powerful example of faith in action. The pilgrims were inspired by the tangible impact of these initiatives, transforming lives and building a stronger community.
Seeking to understand Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, the group spent time at the National Museum of Kenya, immersed in the nation’s history and traditions. This visit deepened their appreciation for the country’s diverse cultures and complex past. In the afternoon, they had lunch at the Utalii Hotel.
One of the most anticipated moments of the pilgrimage was the visit to the PHU main campus site in Baraka-Molo. As they stood on the land where the university would rise, each of the pilgrims planted different tree species. This experience underscored the transformative power of education and its potential to uplift entire communities. Their journey also led them to the breathtaking landscapes of the Masai Mara, where they marvelled at the wildlife and natural beauty that make Kenya unique.
On the evening of 26th July, the pilgrims shared meals and a memorable supper at the Carnivore grounds with the Provincial being present and the PHU Directorate team too. As their pilgrimage drew to a close, the group spent a day shopping in Nairobi, choosing local crafts and souvenirs to take back home. But more than physical mementos, they carried with them the experiences, insights, and connections forged on this journey, a journey that opened their eyes to a broader world community and renewed their focus on making a positive impact on the PHU project. This pilgrimage was not just about traveling to new places but about seeing the world, and themselves, through a divine lens, ensuring they would never be the same again.
