A Moment of Unity and Renewal: UoN Annual Prayer day 2025
The University of Nairobi began the new year with an inspiring and spiritually uplifting event, the Annual Interdenominational Prayer Day, held at the Chandaria Auditorium onF Friday, January 24, 2025. This gathering aimed to seek divine blessings, guidance, and foster a positive mindset for the year ahead.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Jesang Hutchinson, expressed her gratitude to God and the Chaplaincy for guiding the university throughout the year. She emphasized the importance of spiritual growth alongside academic excellence, urging students and staff to turn to God for wisdom in navigating challenges such as the funding model and the implementation of the Collective bargaining agreement.
Prof. Hutchinson encouraged students to envision a bright future, walk in faith and hope, and strive to become champions in their respective fields. She quoted Philippians 4:6-7, reminding the congregation: “Do not be anxious about anything but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Prof. Ayub Gitau, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, welcomed everyone to the prayer day and highlighted the significance of such gatherings as acts of service to God. He underscored the importance of spiritual unity in fostering a supportive and thriving university community.
The university chaplain, Rev. Hosea Mitei, challenged the audience to embrace honesty and humility. He called upon the congregation to pray for the nation and the university’s management, while also encouraging staff to join the University Choir or the SDA Choir for those of the Seventh-day Adventist faith. The University Choir led the audience in soulful congregational hymns, enriching the day’s spiritual atmosphere.
Abdulkadir Adnan delivered a moving recitation of the Quran and a sermon emphasizing gratitude and reliance on God. He reminded the audience of the omniscience of God, stating, “Whether you speak secretly or openly, He surely knows best what is hidden in the heart.”
Imam Mohammed Swaleh elaborated on Quranic teachings, urging obedience to God and His messengers. He recounted stories of Abraham, Noah, and the barrenness of Maryam, drawing lessons about faith, gratitude, and motherhood. Imam Swaleh emphasized:
- Be grateful to Almighty God and always pray to Him.
- Show appreciation to your mother, followed by your father.
- Be content with what you have.
- Trust in the power of prayer without doubt.
- Listen to and obey prophets as messengers of God.
Rev. Fr. Peter Kaigua shared the story of Jonah, urging the audience to embrace truth and authenticity. He highlighted the value of silence, explaining that God reveals Himself in moments of quiet reflection. “In silence, we can communicate deeply with God,” he noted.
The Annual Interdenominational Prayer Day was more than a spiritual gathering; it was a powerful reminder of the shared values and collective aspirations that define the University of Nairobi. The event reinforced the institution’s unity, academic ambitions, and commitment to positive growth.
The words of the Vice-Chancellor, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and the religious leaders resonated with hope and determination, setting a promising tone for a year of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and shared success.
