Book to Inspire Youths to Embrace Peace and Shy Away from Violence Ahead of 2027 Polls

By Mbungu Harrison

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At a time when many Kenyan youths are battling unemployment, drug abuse, and feeling lost; a new book has been launched in Mombasa to give them hope and a new direction.

The book, titled _My Big Five of Faith_, authored by German Bishop Dominik Schwaderlapp from Cologne, was officially launched at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Changamwe, in a colourful ceremony graced by Mombasa Catholic Archbishop Martin Kivuva Musonde.

The author says the book is a wake-up call to young people to hold onto faith and refuse to be misused.

 “The Church is very alive to the challenges society is undergoing. This book is an inspiration and empowerment for young people to overcome challenges and remain faithful to the Church,” Bishop Schwaderlapp said.

Archbishop Kivuva did not mince his words saying the book has come at the right time when many young people are disillusioned and feel forgotten.

“Many of them are very disillusioned, many feel that no one understands them. This book is very opportune, especially when young people feel very lost. The Church is giving them an opportunity to be listened to,” the archbishop said.

According to him the book will speak to a young person struggling with rejection, drugs or hopelessness and help them navigate life.

With the country slowly heading to the 2027 General Election, the archbishop issued a stern warning to the youth against being used by politicians to cause chaos.

“Refuse to be used badly. Young people should be patient and avoid being used to kill or to maim during this period towards elections,” he warned.

The cleric called on the government and society to create meaningful jobs for youth so they could sustain themselves, and urged Kenyans to elect leaders wisely.

 “We need the wisdom of Solomon so that we can judge wisely. As Kenyans, we must know who we elect and choose wisely.”

Changamwe Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Anthony Muigai echoed the archbishop’s sentiments saying the book was a reminder to youth of their worth.

“The book is trying to call our youth to know their worth and how they can avoid being used. This book is really an inspiration. Young people have a place in the Church,” the priest said.

He urged the young people to be agents of peace in their villages, estates, and online spaces.

Published by Pauline Publishers, _My Big Five of Faith_ breaks down the Catholic faithinto five simple, powerful lessons that every young Christian can apply daily to stay strong in a world full of distractions.