A very tired deacon called me this afternoon (9 pm his time). The pilgrimage concluded with hopeful visions of carrying the experience of being bonded to the family of Christ from other tribes, from varying denominational faiths, and from distance lands back to each person's respective home. Pilgrims traveled from all over Kenya and neighboring African countries representing the tribal communities that make up this vast continent. Those who less than a year ago rioted against one another shared meals, homes, and prayers together during the time of this pilgrimage. The deep affection for their new family was profoundly and openly expressed as the 7,000 young people began their journeys back to their homes. Through the great strength of hospitality which the Kenyans are known for, barriers have been broken and a new understanding of and appreciation for one another begins to bear fruit... the same hospitality that has welcomed and cared for Frank.
Never for a minute did Frank ever encounter anything other than welcome, peace, and assistance. The people of Bomu never left his side being sure that he was always finding his way. Tonight Frank will sleep at the Apostles of Jesus house (Fr. Joseph will be arriving at this same house next week!) with Thomas, the leader of the young adults of St. Steven Bomu, who will travel back to Mombasa with him. Tomorrow they will journey to Mombasa by bus, escaping the bumpy all-night journey by matatu that the young people of Bomu are traveling by tonight.
Frank hopes to access the internet once he arrives in Mombasa and will begin entering his own journal entries and hopefully share some of his photos with us. Thank you for journeying with him through your prayers and interest!
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