As we arrived in Kenya late last night, we were greeted by friends old and new at the airport: the Holy Cross Dandora parish greeted the travelers with flowers, hugs, and kind words. 

Our first day today was a soft landing...but a powerful one. After a quick breakfast at the hotel, we packed our bus to wind through the streets of Nairobi towards the Holy Cross Formation House. On the way, trip leaders and our guide, Paul, briefed us on the history of Kenya and the St. Monica Africa Ministry. 

We were welcomed to the formation house with open arms and were honored to celebrate Mass with our longtime friend, Rev. Tom Eckert, CSC. Focusing on Holy Trinity Sunday, Fr. Tom told us to “approach moments of mystery by quieting your heart. Put yourself aside for a moment...and just listen.” It was a reminder to move through this pilgrimage with hope, openness, and peace—and not necessarily answers. 

We toured the grounds and had a traditional Kenyan lunch while exchanging stories with the residents of the formation house—brothers and seminarians in training. 

A short day, but powerful one: our first Sunday in Nairobi allowed us to open our eyes and ears and hearts for what might come on this sacred journey.