Embrace Evangelical Poverty, Resist Worldliness: Kenya’s Archbishop Anyolo Urges Newly Professed Sisters

Archbishop Philip Subira Anyolo of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi urged seven newly professed sisters of the Franciscan Clarist Congregation to embrace evangelical poverty during their first profession on Thursday, October 29.

Speaking at St. Cecilia Ruai Catholic Parish, Archbishop Anyolo described poverty as a gift and a shield that protects consecrated persons from the sin of worldliness. He advised the sisters to live simple lives and avoid pursuing luxury, warning that worldliness can cause them to lose sight of their religious calling.

The archbishop encouraged the sisters to trust the support of the Christian community when facing material needs. He stated that the faithful will provide for them as they serve in apostolates such as healthcare and education. He noted that when sisters serve in hospitals, schools, and dispensaries, the people they serve will ensure their needs are met.