- Bishop Joseph Okemwa Mairura urged parents to model values their children can emulate.
- He linked rising cases of school unrest to drug and substance abuse among learners.
- The bishop called for stronger collaboration to protect children and restore discipline.
Christians have been asked to live exemplary lives both at home and in public so that their children can emulate them, saying children learn best by observing and imitating those around them.
Kisii Catholic Diocese Bishop Joseph Okemwa Mairura made the remarks on Saturday during the opening and consecration of the new St. Joseph’s Amasago Parish in Nyaribari Chache Constituency.
He was accompanied by the Parish Priest, Fr. Isaac Omaticha, who praised the Bishop and the Church for nurturing young people both spiritually and academically.
Bishop Mairura urged parents to be role models at home, saying children closely observe the behaviour of adults and often imitate both their good and bad habits.
He said families that uphold Christian values are more likely to raise children with discipline, respect and a sense of purpose.
Bishop condemns school unrest
The Bishop condemned the increasing incidents of school unrest across the country, including the burning of school property.
He attributed the problem to the erosion of respect for parents at home, arguing that children who fail to respect their parents often extend the same behaviour to teachers and school authorities.
Bishop Mairura said such conduct goes against God’s commandment that calls upon children to honour and obey their parents.
The Bishop linked indiscipline in learning institutions to drug and substance abuse among learners.
He expressed concern over the ease with which some students access alcohol and other drugs and urged the government to take firm action against anyone found selling alcoholic drinks to underage children and students.
He warned that alcohol and other intoxicating substances are destroying the future of many young people.
According to the Bishop, alcohol impairs brain function and memory, making it difficult for learners to concentrate in class, retain what they have learned and perform well in examinations. He added that prolonged substance abuse can lead to school dropout, addiction and poor health.
He also said alcohol contributes to aggressive behaviour, destruction of school property, violence, disrespect for teachers and school leaders, and other forms of indiscipline that undermine the learning environment.
Church pledges continued support
Fr. Omaticha echoed the Bishop’s sentiments, saying the Church has a responsibility to guide and mentor young people.
He said St. Joseph’s Amasago Parish will continue implementing programmes aimed at nurturing youth spiritually, morally and academically so they become responsible members of society.
Bishop Mairura called on churches, schools, parents and government agencies to work together to protect children from drug abuse and restore discipline in learning institutions.
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He said strengthening Christian values within families remains one of the most effective ways of raising a generation that fears God, respects authority and contributes positively to society.
By Enock Okong’o
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