Kenyan archbishop recommends Eucharistic ban for participants in violence

Mombasa, Kenya, Feb 3, 2008 / 11:20 am

In a diocesan newsletter, Archbishop Boniface Lele of Mombasa, Kenya suggested that Catholics known to have participated in the on-going political violence should refrain, or be barred, from Holy Communion until they seek forgiveness.

He continued by stating that they should realize that their actions were sinful and contradictory to God’s will, the commandments and against brotherly and sisterly love.

The archbishop also emphasized that even those who “openly and publicly insulted others should do likewise.” 

“They should seek penance, reconcile and do some restitution,” he said.
 
He appealed “to the conscience of those with whom we share the Catholic faith and [who] were involved in looting, destruction of property, raping women, girls and killings, to ask for forgiveness.”

Reiterating the recent call of the bishops of Kenya to embrace healing and reconciliation, the archbishop added that each person should preach love and peace among the different ethnic groups by encouraging dialogue and offering a listening ear. “Make an effort to console each other and with all humility in the pain and difficulties and avoid blame.”

Archbishop Lele urged the faithful to be good neighbors and to strengthen the section- or village-based xmall Christian communities as a haven for all ethnic groups and cultural diversity.