On Saturday, 15th February 2025, the Redemptorist Mission of Kenya was graced with a momentous occasion, as two of our confreres, Fr. Frederick Omondi Oyoko C.Ss.R. and Fr. Pius Juma Owino C.Ss.R., were ordained as priests at Our Lady of Sorrows Kinungi Parish. The ordination was presided over by His Grace, Philip Anyolo, Archbishop of Nairobi Archdiocese, marking a day filled with joy, grace, and deep spiritual significance.
This ordination comes after a four-year wait, with the last ordination in 2021. For the Redemptorist family in Kenya, this was a long-awaited moment that brought much celebration and hope for the future of the Congregation. The ceremony united not only the Redemptorist family but also friends, parishioners from Iruma and Kinungi Parishes, as well as members of Langata Women Prison, where the Redemptorists also minister. The families of the newly ordained priests, Fr. Frederick and Fr. Pius, were present to witness this blessed occasion.
Fr. Raphael Kambela C.Ss.R., standing in as Provincial Delegate, represented our Mission Superior, Fr. Titus Mutiku C.Ss.R., who is currently in India attending the Provincial Chapter. In his homily, His Grace Archbishop Philip Anyolo encouraged the newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in their commitment to serve God’s people with unwavering faith and dedication. His words served as a reminder of the deep responsibility that comes with the priesthood and the power of prayer in sustaining their vocation.
As part of the celebration, Thanksgiving Masses are planned for both Fr. Frederick and Fr. Pius. Fr. Pius will celebrate his Thanksgiving Mass on 23rd February at St. Stephen Sio-Port Parish, followed by the Holy Eucharist at home on 24th February in the Catholic Diocese of Bungoma. Fr. Frederick will celebrate his Thanksgiving Mass on 2nd March at Mirogi Parish, with the Holy Eucharist at Home on 24th April in the Catholic Diocese of Homabay.
This day of ordination serves as a powerful reminder of the gift of priesthood and the importance of prayer and support for those called to serve. As we keep Fr. Frederick and Fr. Pius in our prayers, we wish them all the best in their ministry, trusting that they will continue to bring blessings to the Redemptorist Mission and the people they serve.
Br. George Sifuna