Bishop Says Murder of Kenyan Priest Will Be ‘a Seed for New Life’

Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett, a Kenyan priest, was murdered in an apparent ambush, raising concerns about safety in his community. Bishop Dominic Kimengich connects the violence to broader issues in the region, urging for reflection and change, while local schools shut down due to fears of insecurity. The ongoing trend of targeting priests signifies a serious call for safer measures in the area.

The recent murder of Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett, a Kenyan priest from the Diocese of Eldoret, has left a significant impact on a community already grappling with poverty and violence. Fr. Bett was fatally ambushed on May 22, shortly after concluding Mass in Kakbiken village, where he was struck by bullets fired by gunmen, dying on the scene. Locals speculate that the attackers believed he was collaborating with law enforcement, having seen detectives visit his residence just days prior.

This tragic event occurred on the same day as the funeral for another priest, Fr. John Maina Ndegwa, who succumbed to injuries from a previous attack. In response to Fr. Bett’s death, Bishop Dominic Kimengich expressed hope that these violent incidents might inspire local change and spur a call for peace across Kerio Valley. During a requiem held on May 25, he emphasized the potential for Fr. Bett’s death to become “a seed for new life.”

Bishop Kimengich articulated that every calamity has a purpose, hinting at a divine message behind the murder. He stated, “Fr. Allois’ blood, which was spilt innocently, will not go for nothing. Just as Jesus spilled his blood to save us, we believe that the blood of all those who give their lives becomes the seed for new life.” The bishop further stressed the importance of accountability and urged security agencies to enhance their responses to local insecurity.

The killing has raised serious concerns among local clergy about safety in the region, which is already marred by insecurity. Bishop Kimengich noted, “Right now, chances are no priest wants to go to the region because they don’t feel safe.” In his view, this alarming situation might deter future priests from serving in similar parishes. He made it clear that if clergy members felt unsafe, he would not hesitate to advise them to leave.

The response to this violence has been severe, with schools shutting down due to threats, leaving students without education. A total of 54 primary and 19 secondary schools in the area have closed, supported by local educators’ unions calling for a halt to classes until it is safe. John Cheberi, the Branch Secretary General of KNUT, aired his grievances, highlighting the fears of teachers who might be targeted next, especially non-locals.

“If a priest, a symbol of peace, can be targeted and killed for preaching peace, what will happen to teachers, the majority who come from other regions?” he questioned. Cheberi also voiced concerns over possible ethnic conflicts exacerbated by such violence, urging all to work toward peaceful coexistence.

Despite the unrest, police officials like Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat assure residents that measures are in place to enhance security around schools and public services. Lagat expressed, “We want to assure everyone, including our teachers and school children, that we have provided adequate security, and learning should go on.”

Finally, the increasing frequency of attacks on clergy in Kenya indicates a worrying trend. High-profile murders of priests over the years indicate a systematic targeting, often by bandits eager to eliminate perceived threats. The call for enhanced safety and prevention measures appears more urgent than ever as communities mourn their lost leaders and work for a resolution to the persistent violence.

The murder of Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett underscores the ongoing violence facing clergy in Kenya and raises questions about safety in conflict-ridden regions. Bishop Dominic Kimengich’s remarks suggest a desire for transformation and a plea for justice. The alarming trend of violence against priests indicates a critical situation that requires urgent attention from both the Church and security forces to ensure safety and peace for local communities moving forward.

Original Source: www.catholicworldreport.com