by John Sorce
john.sorce@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A unique Catholic cultural event is coming here this year.
The Kenyan Catholic Community in America (KCCA) will be hosting its annual convention from July 17 – 19 at Savior Pastoral Center.
The convention offers an opportunity to experience the richness of African Catholic spirituality. Swahili-speaking communities from across the country will be in attendance, bringing together diverse voices in worship and fellowship.
Father Leonard Gicheru, pastor of St. Monica Church in Kansas City, Missouri, said this year he wants to see a conversion for those who attend.
“This year, I would like to incorporate the togetherness and oneness of fellow Christians in search of God during the whole convention,” he said. “The inner healing that I have witnessed in myself and in others through eucharistic adoration and the healing Mass have been outstanding. I hope all attending will experience conversion and a newness of heart and growth in holiness.”
Bishop James Maria Wainaina from the Diocese of Murang’a, Kenya, will be in attendance. He will offer spiritual guidance and insight throughout the convention, and will kick off the event with a fundraising dinner the evening of July 17 from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Most of the festivities will take place on July 18. Check-in and breakfast will run from 6 – 8 a.m. before opening remarks and a rosary are said the following hour.
One of Kansas City’s own will be the keynote speaker. Joe Heschmeyer, a Kansas City native and leading apologist with Catholic Answers, will speak from 9 – 11:30 a.m. Renowned for his engaging and intellectually grounded approach, Heschmeyer will explore pressing questions of faith and reason, drawing from Scripture and Catholic tradition to illuminate the truths of the faith.
That afternoon will feature a dynamic catechesis program with several distinguished speakers, all centered around the theme of the Jubilee Year of Hope, proclaimed by the late Pope Francis. The day will conclude with a healing Mass, inviting all to encounter Christ’s peace and renewal.
The convention will conclude on July 19 with a joyous Swahili Mass — a powerful expression of cultural faith and unity that stands as the spiritual high point of the event. All events are free of charge and everyone is welcome. However, registration is required to help better serve attendees.
Those who would like to support but are unable to attend can do so by hosting a visiting priest or clergy member, or sponsor a meal for a guest priest or bishop for the Bishop’s Fundraising Dinner for $85.
Father Richard Storey, pastor of Curé of Ars in Leawood, supports the cause as one of the families have been parishioners of the parish for over a decade. He said their faith is palpable.
“If anyone were to come and witness their excitement, you would certainly see why the church is growing rapidly in Africa,” he said. “Their faith, joy and excitement are truly inspiring.”
Father Gicheru wants to encourage those to come with an open heart.
“The convention and KCCA creates a community that welcomes back those who have walked away from their Catholic faith,” he said. “The convention is, above all, a spiritual and faith-filled experience. Come with an open heart and you will not return home the same person because you will have an encounter with God.”
The deadline for registration is June 30; register online by visiting this link: stfrancisafricancommunit.flocknote.com/signup/205047.
