Catholic Men Association

The Catholic Men Association (CMA) of Kenya is a lay organization within the Catholic Church that brings
together Catholic men to deepen their faith, foster fraternity, and actively contribute to the life of the
Church and society.

It provides a platform for men to grow spiritually, morally, and socially, while addressing challenges
specific to Catholic men in Kenya. St. Joseph is the Patron Saint of the CMA and a model of family life.

Motto: Good Family, Good Church, Good Society

KEY FEATURES OF CMA 

Spiritual Growth 

Faith Formation:

• Organizing Bible studies, catechesis sessions, and theological discussions to strengthen members’ understanding of Catholic teachings.
• Encouraging frequent participation in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession.

Prayer and Devotion:

• Regular prayer meetings, rosary devotions, and spiritual retreats to deepen members’ personal relationship with God.
• Promoting devotion to Catholic saints, particularly St. Joseph, the patron of families and workers.

Social and Community Engagement

Family Support:

• Promoting family values and helping men fulfill their roles as spiritual leaders within their households.
• Offering guidance on marriage, parenting, and conflict resolution.

Charity Work:

• Supporting community initiatives such as helping the less fortunate, sponsoring education for needy children, and contributing to parish development projects.

Youth Mentorship:

• Serving as mentors for young Catholics, especially boys and young men, guiding them in faith and life skills.

Leadership and Advocacy

Church Leadership:

• Members often take on leadership roles in parishes, dioceses, and Catholic institutions.
• Supporting the clergy in parish activities, decision-making, and administrative roles.

Community Advocacy:

• Addressing social justice issues such as corruption, tribalism, and poverty.
• Promoting peace and reconciliation, especially in areas affected by ethnic or political conflict.

Moral and Ethical Support

Men’s Challenges:

• Providing a safe space for members to discuss challenges like unemployment, addiction, and maintaining integrity in business and public life.
• Offering support systems for widowers, single fathers, and men facing difficulties in marriage or family life.

Ethical Guidance:

• Educating members on moral issues from a Catholic perspective, such as integrity, respect for human life, and ethical leadership.

HOW TO JOIN CMA

Membership Requirements:

• Be a practicing Catholic man aged 18 years and above who is committed to living according to Church teachings.
• Be a member of a Jumuiya.
• Participate in initiation processes, such as induction ceremonies or spiritual retreats.

One can be a CMA member by registration but it’s through commissioning that an individual becomes a
full member in the association. Recruitment is through announcements in the Church and at Jumuiya
level. Once a member accepts to join the CMA, he is required to pay membership or affiliation fee.

Members are occasionally sensitized through seminars and retreats and participation in acts of mercy.
Commissioning classes and training are arranged for those who wish to be commissioned and eventually a commissioning day is arranged for all qualifying members. Before commissioning, a member is expected to have a full CMA uniform – navy blue suit, tie, badge and a white shirt.

ACTIVITIES OF CMA 

Spiritual Events: 

• Annual pilgrimages to holy sites in Kenya or abroad. 
• Organizing parish and diocesan prayer rallies or novenas.

Charity and Community Projects:

• Building or supporting orphanages, schools, and hospitals.
• Responding to emergencies such as drought, floods, or other disasters through organized relief efforts.

Vocational Support:

• Encouraging vocations to the priesthood and religious life among their children.
• Financially supporting seminarians and religious programs.

Outreach Programs:

• Engaging with other Catholic associations and interfaith organizations for community-building initiatives.
• Participating in civic education on issues like elections, peacebuilding, and responsible citizenship.