Shanzu: In an era where families often live in isolation, exacerbated by a rise in social media and the exigencies of work, a Catholic church in Shanzu has taken a proactive step to restore unity by hosting an eventful Family Day. The worshippers from all walks of life and age groups put their devices away to avoid disruptions from social media to reconnect through faith, fun, and games.

According to Kenya News Agency, the event-filled day began after the morning mass, where worshippers from four out stations: Bamburi, Majaoni, Maweni, and Shanzu converged at the Sacred Heart of Christ Catholic Church for praise and worship before going to the field for athletics, football, and tug-of-war games. Surprisingly, the women’s team triumphed over the men’s team one-nil in the highly dramatic football game cheered by a mammoth crowd at the church’s ground.

The men, however, claimed victory in the tug-of-war contest, winning three out of four rounds before the women clinched a single round and broke into celebratory songs. Fr Vincent Alicho, the Reverend Priest of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, stated that the day was all about family and fun, emphasizing the importance of play in the community’s spiritual and social life.

Fr. Alicho noted that the games were not about winners or losers but about play and reinvigorating the minds and bodies while showcasing and nurturing the talents of the youths. He affirmed his commitment to creating a holistic parish that nurtures not only spiritual growth but also mental and emotional well-being through co-curricular activities.

He further explained that the family is an important cog in society, referring to the church’s view of the family as a “small church” where the training and molding of children begins. Fr. Alicho emphasized the role of well-trained children in creating a better community and reducing societal issues.

Parishioner Matilda Ouma highlighted the day’s role in fostering unity and love among worshippers, while David Simwa noted the event’s coincidence with the feast of St. Paul and St. Peter, bringing happiness and togetherness to the community.