Former President Uhuru Kenyatta Joins Catholic Faithful Mark Ash Wednesday and the Start of Lent
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta participated in the Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Nyali, Mombasa, this morning, joining hundreds of Catholic faithful to observe the solemn occasion that signals the beginning of the Lenten season.
Ash Wednesday, a key day in the Christian liturgical calendar, marks the start of the 40-day period of prayer, fasting, penance, and spiritual reflection leading up to Easter Sunday. During the service, congregants—including the former head of state—received the traditional imposition of ashes on their foreheads in the shape of a cross, symbolizing mortality, repentance, and a call to turn away from sin.
Kenyatta, a known devout Catholic, actively took part in the rituals alongside ordinary worshippers, demonstrating humility and solidarity with the community. The event drew attention across social media and news outlets, with photos and videos circulating widely showing him seated among the faithful in the coastal parish. His presence in Mombasa, a region with a significant Catholic population, underscored personal faith commitments even after leaving office. Sources from his office highlighted that the former president used the moment to reflect on themes of compassion, renewal, and service to others.
In a gesture of interfaith harmony, Kenyatta extended warm wishes to the Muslim community, who are currently observing the holy month of Ramadan—a period of fasting, prayer, and charity that overlaps with Lent this year. He encouraged Christians to embrace the Lenten season with renewed dedication to prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness, while calling for unity across faiths in promoting peace and goodwill. The low-key yet meaningful appearance has been praised by many as a reminder of shared spiritual values in Kenya's diverse society.
