KENYA: Hope Does Not Disappoint
By Fr. P.Y. Kiprop-Mbaaga
As countless individuals reflect on Pope Francis’s legacy of love,
Among the tributes in his honor is a poetic homage capturing
The essence of his gentle spirit and profound impact, service, and unwavering faith.
Hope Does Not Disappoint…
You arrived unexpected even by yourself,
“Habemus Papam” followed by your “Pray for me…”
Your “Good night…” with a smile came too…
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
Your Predecessor’s love with you,
Your Predecessor’s hope with you,
With light of faith, you crowned it
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
Our Common Home, you reminded us,
To care for it, you impressed on us,
Laudato Si’ (on the world) resounding to date
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
Fraternity you encouraged us into,
Social Friendship you inculcated,
Fratelli Tutti (on man) resounding to date
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
Human and divine love you immersed us in,
The Sacred Heart of Jesus the School,
Dilexit Nos (on God) resounding to date
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
Your Apostolic-Pastoral Visits were diverse,
Kenya was the first in Africa (November 2015),
You are Pilgrim-Pope of Joy –
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
You exited soon after Easter Sunday Blessings,
Urbi et Orbi remains your signature,
We embrace it in a synodal way –
From Earthly Hope to Heavenly Joy!
