PHOTOS: How Kenyans braved the rain at Uhuru Park to attend Pope Francis mass

Thousands of Christian faithful who did not manage to get accreditation to physically attend the historic mass which was presided over by Pope Francis at the University of Nairobi on Thursday, November 26, congregated at Uhuru and Central Park squares to follow the live proceedings.

The rain could not deter them from hearing God’s word as ministered by the Pontiff.

As early as 3 a.m. hundreds of Christians began flocking either squares to at least get the closest spot to the big screens which were set strategically.

Singing and dancing at the top of their voices, the Christians keenly participated virtually in the proceedings.

In his message the Pope called for unity, tolerance and strengthening of family values for a better society.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President William Ruto and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta joined the Catholic faithful in celebrating the Mass at the University of Nairobi sports ground.

In his homily, Pope Francis called on Kenyans to continue embracing strong family values based on the word of God and African traditions.

He said couples need to cherish one another to build an environment of stable families saying God’s desire is to have strong families built on the foundation of his holy word.

“God wants all of us to build our lives in the foundation of his word, that is the charge the Lord gives to each of us,” said Pope Francis.

He also challenged Kenyans to show concern for the poor and learn to live in harmony and respect with one another.

“May God bless all Kenyans with His peace, stand strong in faith. Do not be afraid, for you belong to the Lord. Mungu awabariki. Mungu abariki Kenya,” he said.

The Pope also urged the youth to build a just society that is inclusive.

“Here in the heart of this university where the minds and hearts of the young are being shaped, I appeal to the young people of this generation to build a society that is more just and inclusive. May you always be concerned for the welfare of the poor,” he said. “In obedience to the Word, we are called to resist practices which foster arrogance in men, and hurt or demean women.”

The pontiff denounced abortion and corruption among other vices in the society.