Members of the society have been urged to give equal attention to the welfare of the boy child and address the growing mental health challenges facing men, amid concerns that many young men are increasingly feeling neglected and isolated.
Speaking during a Sunday Mass at Our Lady of Assumption Kathambaiconi Catholic Church in Nthagaiya Parish, Fr Patrick Mugendi said the strong focus on empowering the girl child has inadvertently left many boys and men struggling to find their place in society.
June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month.
”The society has focused heavily on empowering the girl child and has forgotten the boy child,” said Fr Mugendi, noting that the imbalance has left many men devastated and alienated.
The priest observed that economic hardships, emotional pressures and social expectations have contributed to rising mental health challenges among men, with many suffering in silence.
He urged men to seek strength and hope in Christ whenever they face difficulties, emphasizing that faith can help them overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Drawing from the biblical story of David and Goliath, Fr Mugendi said David conquered a giant not through physical strength but because of his unwavering trust in God.
He further called on men to face modern-day challenges with courage, lead their families through Christian values and become positive role models in society.
Fr Mugendi also appealed to those who have drifted away from the Church to return to the faith, reminding them that God is merciful and always ready to forgive.