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The role of the Churches

The Churches were present at the WSF and gave life to some well prepared activities. Ceremonies in Nairobi's Holy Family Roman Catholic Basilica and All Saints Anglican Cathedral, together with a procession from one to the other church, were part of events organized by the All Africa Conference of Churches and the Caritas Ecumenical Platform to mark the opening of the Forum. The Catholic Coordination presented activities covering urban livelihood - with a special interest in slum dwellers' issues; the international debt; HIV/ AIDS; nomadic people and migration; peace building and reconciliation, street life, its tents far bigger than any other groups. The Coordination membership, ranging from the Caritas Ecumenical Platform with 1000 activists present representing over 300 Christian relief and social organizations have prompted a lively debate.

In Africa, religion is recognized as a key force in social life and transformation. "Religion is important in solving social problems", said Elizabeth Jensen of Caritas International, "it gives you a platform. It commits people" quoting from Proverbs 31:9 "Speak out and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and the needy". Sr. Sheila Kinsley, a Franciscan nun found social work and spreading the Gospel compatible: "We tell the message of the Gospel in our work but there is no coercion. We just let the people know". Comboni Sister Teresita Cortes of the Philippines freely referred to the Gospel as she recounted her social work for the poor in Kenya, since there is an 'intimate connection' between the two. Sister Stephanie of St. Paul's Order, dealing with the HIV patients, said: "They know what we stand for and we help all". Her stand is to advocate fidelity in marriage, abstinence and spiritual assistance to heal the stricken. At the tent of the Franciscan Center they are selling T-shirts reading: "Behavioral Change is the Weapon for a Better World. Stick to it"