On the occasion of the centennial of the birth of Don Alvaro (11 March 1914 to 11 March 2015) a flurry of activities, including his beatification in Madrid on 27 September 2014, have taken place.  Here in Strathmore University, we closed the centennial with a solemn Mass celebrated by the Pro-Chancellor, Rev. Dr. Sivlano Ochuodho on Saturday 14 March 2015 at 11:00 am.  The very well attended Mass highlighted the deep feeling of friendship that many faithful’s have developed towards the new Blessed.

 

 

During the homily, Fr. Ochuodho quoted Pope Francis’ letter to Bishop Javier Echevarría, Prelate of Opus Dei, on the occasion of the beatification of Don Alvaro:

 

 

I like to recall the aspiration that the Servant of God would often repeat, especially for personal celebrations and anniversaries: “Thank you; forgive me; help me more!” These words bring us closer to the reality of his interior life and his relationship with the Lord, and can also help to give a new impulse to our own Christian life.

 

This aspiration, commented Fr. Ochuodho, brings forth the virtue that most characterized the new Blessed: humility.  Everyone who came into contact with him agrees that this was the virtue that most aptly defined his character.  That is perhaps why struggle for sanctity is somewhat challenging! He encouraged us to imitate him in this.