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A newly ordained deacon for the diocese of Garissa Deacon Leonard King’ara

December 17th, 2025

The Kairos (καιρός) of God: By Fr. Julio A. Rodriguez

A newly ordained deacon for the diocese of Garissa

Deacon Leonard King’ara

On the feast day of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr of Syracuse in Sicily, December 13th, 2025, the Universal church gave birth to a deacon- Leonard Kingara.

After twenty Three years of intense prayer, a candidate has entered into the diaconate stage.  Leonard King’ara’s  diaconate was conferred by hands of Rt. Rev. Bishop George Muthaka, OFM. Cap., the ordinary for Garissa Diocese. The celebration was colourful by the nature of the liturgy – on the third sunday of advent which is called the Gaudete (rejoicing sunday) for the christmas celebration is near. 

The charismatic and tender bishop George Muthaka OFM. Cap., stressed in his deep and reflective homily:

“Brother Leonard, God is the one who has called you to this particular mode of life, to consecrate your life for God, for the Church, to love and serve her in her people as the first reading (Acts of the apostles 6:1-7) to attend the widows, the marginalized ones – those who are forsaken. Your work is to journey with them, to sanctify them with your life. May those little ones not run thirsty and hungry – tend to them- naomba sana ndugu zangu”, stressed the ordinary. 

He continued on emphasising on leadership with a horizon of human-spiritual ministry with practical services – tria munera (received in baptism – the clergy’s ministries of teaching, sanctifying and governing, which correspond to Christ’s threefold office of Prophet, Priest and King: LG 10-13), a life of prayer and ministering the sick and youth ministry. Bishop George Muthaka finished his homily stating, “We the clergy are deacons forever. If we become priest or bishop- we remain as deacon in the service of the table of the word and the table of Eucharist forever. We are called to love with Christ’s passion”.  

Deacon Leonard King’ara was born in 1984 in Kiambu County, Kenya. He is son to the late Raphael King’ara (+2018) and the late Jane Njoki King’ara (+2016) – “May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace”. He grew up at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Kiambu where he was imbued into human and gospel values. He enjoys reading and working with youth. In 2024, he was appointed Youth Chaplain by the ordinary which he has done a wonderful job. 

The Gift of the Priestly Vocation (Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis Sacerdotalis – 2016) which gives general guidelines regarding the formation of men into the priesthood, it says:

“Since the priest-disciple comes from the Christian community, and will be sent back  to it, to serve it and to guide it as a pastor, formation is clearly missionary in character. Its goal is participation in the one mission entrusted by Christ to His Church, that is evangelisation, in all its forms”. (RFIS: 3. Characteristic Elements and Fundamental Content – Sixth paragraph). 

Are you thinking of joining our diocese? Kindly, get in touch with your parish priest and/or reach out to our vocation director, Fr. Alfred (0721547288).

Let us join hands in prayer imploring for vocations as Jesus told his disciples: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (Luke 10:2).

We wish you all a blessed Christmas and a wonderful 2026 filled with God’s presence in all your good endeavors.

“Fiat Mihi Secundum Verbum Tuum”



Blessing of the St. Francis of Assisi Church, Village 2, Bura Tana, Garissa Diocese, Kenya, Africa.

St. Jude Parish Unveils Newly Built St. Francis Catholic Church After Years of Deterioration. 

The virtues received in the sacrament of baptism yield in due time as the apostles of the gentiles remind us: “Hope do not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit which has been given to us.” (Rm. 5:5)

By Mwalimu Joseph Kariuki Gachie- Bura Tana, Garissa, Kenya, Africa – 29th November 2025 – drafted by Fr. Julio A. Rodriguez on December 1st, 2025.

The Catholic community in Garissa diocese witnessed a historic moment today for four reasons:

  1.  Blessing of the Newly built Church in Village 2, St. Francis catholic community.
  2. The celebration of the sacrament of Confirmation.
  3. Receiving a special Guest of honor, Rt. Rev. Wolfgang Pisa, OFM Cap. President of the Tanzanian Episcopal Conference- presider over the mass.
  4. The missionary community – Missionary Fraternity of Mary clergy members together with the bishops and the laity.

It was joyfully and officially opened and blessed the newly constructed St. Francis Catholic Church, an outstation of  St. Jude Thaddeus Parish, on Saturday November 29th, 2025. The colourful celebration was presided by the Most Reverend Wolfgang Pisa, president  of the Tanzanian Episcopal Conference and ordinary of the Diocese of Lindi in the southern region of Tanzania bordering the Eastern region of Mosanbique. 

He was joined by the ordinary of Garissa Diocese, Bishop George Muthaka, the parish priest of  Our Lady of Consolata – Garissa cathedral – Fr. Alfred  Njeru DD, Fr. John Mwai (OFM Cap)  assistant parish priest in Hola, Assistant parish priests in Bura- Frs. Jose Ernesto Yoc Avila and Julio Antonio Rodriguez  (MFM) along with the Bura Parish priest – Fr. Rolando Choc Matzir MFM.

The new church building replaces an old structure that had served the community for many years – since back in the 80’s-  but it had gradually  deteriorated and became unsafe for worshiping and other community activities. After  consultations with the larger community leaders, the parish priest made the decision to demolish the aging building and put up a completely new and enlarged and fitting room for the catholic community members- all this with the approval of the ordinary.

Twenty Two (22) catholic christians were conferred the grace of the Holy Spirit- sacrament of Confirmation- in a joyous celebration. This sacrament was conferred by Bishop Wolfgang Pisa OFM, Cap. The presider highlighted to the confirmation candidates, “You are to become soldiers of Christ” emphasising that they are to live and defend the catholic faith.   Bishop Pisi encouraged the newly confirmed to treasure the gifts of the Holy Spirit and urged all Christians to remain firm in their faith and committed to building a vibrant Church community engaged into the synodality of the Church.

Before the mass dismissal, Fr. Rolando who is the parish priest, gave a vote of thanks to:

  1. Propatio Fidei- Rome 
  2. Rt. Reverent Bishop George Muthaka, OFM Cap.,
  3. The Missionary Fraternity of Mary (MFM) and 
  4. Generous friends 

And to the entire community who supported it up to its completion (Pews pending). He spoke widely in  thanking  the sponsors, well-wishers, and parishioners. He especially acknowledged Fr. Julio Rodriguez, who supervised the construction work from start to finish.

Bishop Muthaka praised the dedication of the clergy serving in St. Jude Parish, noting that the new church marks a fresh chapter for a community that had endured difficult worship conditions for many years.

Two Churches Still in Need of Urgent Support

Despite the day’s celebrations, parish leadership highlighted the need for continued support for other outstations pending to construct their worshiping temple – which are Bura East (St. Thomas) and Village 3 & 4(St. Stephen).  According to parish moderator Mr. Daniel Otieno,  these communities are in great need for their worshiping temples. 

He appealed to Christians, donors, and well-wishers to help ensure that these communities also receive dignified places of worship.

A New Era for St. Jude Parish

The completion and dedication of St. Francis Catholic Church mark a new era of hope, renewal, and growth for St. Jude Parish. The Missionary Fraternity of Mary reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the spiritual life of the parish and supporting the wider community.

“For the glory of God is a living man; and the life of man consists in beholding God. For if the manifestation of God which is made by means of the creation, affords life to all living in the earth, much more does that revelation of the Father which comes through the Word, give life to those who see God”. (IV.20.7) (St. Irenaeus 130 AD – 202 AD)

Do not be ashamed of your history, you inspire many people to be Good.

 

KENYA: Catholic Bishops Warn against Repressive Laws Enacted Hastily, Call for Fair SHA Payments and Urge Youth to Register as Voters

By Paschal Norbert

NAIROBI, NOVEMBER 13, 2025 (CISA) —The Catholic Bishops have issued a passionate plea to the government to review newly enacted laws that risk undermining freedoms, ensure timely payment to hospitals under the new health scheme, and rallied the youth to register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

In a statement titled “Building a Kenya of Hope and Justice: Our Civic Duty”, the bishops said the contested Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, delayed payments to faith-based hospitals under the Social Health Authority (SHA), and low voter registration, represent urgent moral and civic challenges that demand government accountability and citizen action.

Bishops Raise Alarm over Contested Laws

The bishops raised serious concerns over the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act and the Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025, warning that they were passed hastily and could be misused to suppress civil liberties, especially freedom of expression and digital advocacy.

“We raise serious concerns about the way the law on the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, and the Land Amendment Act No. 21 of 2025, were crafted and enacted in a hurry. Kenyans have raised substantial concerns about the amendments, which were signed into law,” the bishops said.

They cautioned that unless properly reviewed, the laws could be exploited to intimidate critics and manipulate public discourse.

“We strongly recommend a necessary review lest they be abused to curtail the very freedom they ought to protect. Meaningful public participation would be necessary,” the bishops emphasized, adding “The fears Kenyans have expressed regarding these new laws should not be brushed off. They deserve to be listened to and, where necessary, corrective measures taken.”

Specifically, the bishops expressed concern that the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes law could “be used to silence government critics, to abuse the right to advocacy, or even to manipulate the electoral process.”

They called for public awareness and amendment of offending clauses to ensure the laws serve to protect rather than restrict freedoms.

“Without careful and meaningful public participation, laws will be counterproductive, eroding public trust in the government. We recommend that the offending clauses be expunged and that specificity be provided on who the law targets,” the bishops stated.

They explained, “This would instill in the public an awareness that the law is meant to protect and expand their rights, enhance public order, and not to injure their freedoms.”

The bishops also warned against any government attempt to control religion through proposed legislation.

“The same can be expressed about the Religious Organization Bill. While certain legislation is necessary, the government should never be seen as attempting to regulate religion,” they cautioned.

Hospitals on the Brink

Turning to the healthcare sector, the bishops welcomed the new Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme but decried delayed payments to hospitals, particularly faith-based institutions, which they said are struggling to operate due to unpaid government claims.

“The benefits of the new Social Health Authority (SHA) medical scheme have been greatly advertised. For sure, many people have received treatment under the new SHA coverage in many hospitals, for which we are grateful,” the bishops said, while clarifying “However, the medical scheme cannot survive if the health providers, that is, the hospitals, are not timely and sufficiently paid for the services they provide to the patients.”

They condemned allegations of incompetence and fraud directed at hospitals demanding payment, insisting that such accusations are unjustified when institutions are merely seeking their rightful dues.

“We take exception to allegations of incompetence and fraud when we ask for our rights! The lingering inefficiencies of NHIF will eventually cost us dearly,” the bishops declared.

They urged the government to fast-track payment of all pending arrears owed to Catholic, faith-based, and private hospitals across the country, warning that many are on the verge of closure.

“We, the Catholic Bishops, still await the payment of all pending arrears owed to our hospitals, any other faith-based hospital, and private hospitals across the country, which are unable to offer basic services due to unpaid or delayed payments,” they stated.

“We ask that the matter of huge uncleared NHIF dues be fast-tracked and paid by government. Many faith-based hospitals are on the brink of closing due to unpaid claims.”

The bishops’ statement comes amid rising concern among healthcare providers about operational strain and declining patient care linked to funding delays, a situation that could jeopardize access to essential medical services, especially in rural and marginalized areas.

Youth to Register as Voters

The prelates also used the occasion to issue a clarion call to the youth to embrace voter registration and participation as an act of faith and civic responsibility, describing it as a “peaceful and constructive way to shape Kenya’s future.”

“The period of the accelerated voter registration is with us. We encourage all, especially the youth, to take up the challenge to view voter registration and participation in the 2027 general election as a concrete, peaceful, and constructive way to shape Kenya’s future through the electoral process,” the bishops urged.

They said that lasting national change can only be realized through civic engagement and democratic participation, reminding young people that their votes represent hope for accountability, justice, and unity.

“Every young person’s vote is a voice of hope for a more accountable, inclusive, and compassionate nation,” they said. “We therefore strongly urge all eligible youth to register. Registering as a voter secures your voice and contribution, enabling Kenya to continue growing in justice, peace, and unity.”

The bishops further appealed to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to make voter registration more accessible by expanding its reach into rural and remote regions.

“We realize that the numbers of voter registration are still low. We encourage the IEBC to increase the number of registration stations even in the remote areas,” they stated.

MALTA: Tribute to Bishop Paul Darmanin OFMCap, Pioneer Prelate of Garissa

By Br John Cassar OFMCap

FLORIANA, AUGUST 8,2023 (CISA)- “Well done, good and trustworthy servant; you have shown you are trustworthy in small things; I will trust you with greater; come and join in your master’s happiness.” (Mt 25, 21)

On Wednesday, July 25, 2023, the good Lord called Mgr. Paul Darmanin, Bishop Emeritus of Garissa in Kenya.  Thus, the Lord gave him the righteous reward for all the good he has accomplished in his priestly ministry, as Minister Provincial and later as missionary and Bishop of the Garissa diocese in Kenya for 31 years.

Among the many graces I have received from God throughout my life is that of meeting many people. And among them is the person of Bishop Paul Darmanin OFMCap, with whom I have worked and lived with for many years in the Garissa Mission and in recent years here in Malta.

It was on February 3, 1984, that Pope, St. John Paul II, appointed Fr. Paul Darmanin as the first Bishop of the Garissa diocese in Kenya.

Before he was appointed bishop, Mgr. Paul Darmanin was a Provincial of the Maltese Capuchin Brothers.  During his six years as a provincial, he not only visited missionaries in Kenya several times but worked hard to strengthen this mission; he encouraged more friars to go and work in the Garissa Mission.   The missionaries of those early days still remember and mention, among others, his first visit between August and October 1974 when he wanted to see and share the daily life of missionaries and their difficulties; and he foresaw the prospects for the Church, for the Order, and also for the local people. Then when he finished his six years as a provincial, after a while, he opted to go and participate in the future of the Mission.  He wanted to give his share in the development and the building of the local church there.

Mgr. Paul Darmanin dedicated his best years as a missionary and a bishop of the new diocese of Garissa with commitment, determination and courage but above all with great faith. He must have known it wasn’t such an easy mission.

I had known Bishop Paul since I became Capuchin in 1983 and I always followed and read what he wrote about the Garissa Mission.  I always had a deep admiration for him.   But I got to know him more closely when in 1993 I went on the mission myself and even more so when I worked and lived closer with him in Garissa for long years.

Bishop Paul Darmanin was adorned with uncommon humility, silence, and prudence. Although he was a bishop, he always lived the simple life of a missionary and a Capuchin Franciscan missionary.   And that was noticed by all those who met him; everyone confessed the same about him. Not only bishops, priests and religious, but also the civil authorities. The closer I was to him, the more I confirmed this truth.    During the years I lived with Bishop Paul, I was lucky enough to accompany him on his various pastoral visits to the diocese to be close to the missionaries. I travelled with him to the most remote parish in the diocese, that of Mandera, located almost a thousand kilometres from Garissa and situated between two international borders; Ethiopia and Somalia.   Long journeys never end!

During these trips, Mgr. Darmanin always thought well about what to take with him for the missionaries; not only, but he also kept in mind the needs of the people he would meet along the way; he carried several jerrycans with water so that when we were stopped by someone asking for water, we would have something ready to give him.  In the words of Pope Francis, he always “used to have the smell of sheep” because as the Pope said: A good shepherd must carry with him the scent of the flock. He always did so, and thus we knew him!

What has always struck me in Bishop Paul is also his great availability. He was a bishop willing to speak and listen to everyone. He was one who not only had the ability to hear and understand who was speaking to him but also who would put all his attention on the person with whom he was speaking. That’s how you would have considered him at that moment: it seemed that only the person who was in front of him existed in the whole world.  These beautiful qualities attracted also the attention and admiration of other Christians and even the Muslims around.

They also called him Baba Askofu (our father, the bishop) because they admired a father’s qualities in him.  Bishop Paul was a man of few words; but his few words were considered encouragement and full of wisdom, especially in difficult moments that, in a Mission like Garissa, they never fail and sometimes they would also be frequent!  He always kept calm and knew wholeheartedly to do what St. Paul said to Bishop Timothy: “Preach the Word in season and out of season, reprove, rebuke and exhort with complete patience and teaching” (2 Tim,4,2).4

During his thirty-two years as bishop of Garissa, Bishop Paul remained a missionary, a Capuchin Franciscan missionary as he always has been.   He was instrumental in establishing new parishes and encouraging all charitable projects despite all the difficulties Garissa offered during all those years.  Several new schools were opened and other clinics have been added to continue and strengthen the health and education programmes. All this is the fruit of his silent and quiet work and the enthusiasm with which he inspired missionaries and the seriousness with which he managed all funds as many personnel of the Agencies confirmed.

In this spirit, Bishop Paul worked hard to see the establishment of the new diocese of Malindi, a large part of which was the southern part of Garissa.  And no better leader could be found than Fr Francis Baldacchino OFMCap who was one of the pioneer missionaries since 1974.

On December 8, 2015, Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Bishop Darmanin and Mgr Joe Alessandro OFMCap was appointed his successor.

Dear Bishop Paul, I give you thanks… for the encouragement you have always given to me, for the beautiful and not-so-beautiful moments we lived together (when the Mission was attacked by armed bandits) … for the personal sacrifices you have made to be close to me in the most difficult moments I have passed… and for all those moments you have been there for me. To me, you were not only Bishop but a father, a brother and a friend. You were an inspiration. I feel not only lucky to have lived with you for many years but also privileged. Now that death has separated us I assure you that for my entire life, I will continue to cherish these beautiful memories that we lived together and pray for you.

Until we meet again at the Father’s House, Kwaheri na kuonana…!   (We salute you until we see each other again).

KENYA: Bishop Wallace Nganga Calls on Catholic Communicators to Reassert Church Identity in the Digital Age

By Paschal Norbert

NAIROBI, NOVEMBER 20, 2025 (CISA) – Catholic media practitioners have been challenged to reclaim the Church’s prophetic voice, deepen collaboration, and uphold doctrinal integrity in a rapidly changing digital landscape. The call was made by Rt. Rev. Bishop Wallace Nganga, Chairman of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) Commission for Social Communications, as he officially opened the weeklong annual gathering of national diocesan communication coordinators and media directors.

In his keynote address, which set the tone for the national consultative meeting, Bishop Nganga warned that the mission of Catholic communicators is being tested by “rapid technological change, moral confusion, and widespread disinformation,” insisting that the Church must respond with renewed fidelity to its identity and mission.

The bishop opened his address by expressing his joy at meeting Catholic media professionals from across the country, stating “It gives me great joy to address you at this important consultative meeting organized by the Commission for Social Communications. This gathering comes at a providential moment, a time when the Church is called to renew her mission of evangelization in an age marked by rapid technological change, moral confusion, and widespread disinformation.”

He noted that this year’s theme, “Deepening Collaboration and Building Capacity for Effective Evangelization and Ethical Media Engagement,” is both timely and prophetic, saying it invites the Church to “rediscover communication as a sacred ministry” rooted in Christ, the Word made flesh.

Bishop Nganga stressed that Catholic media must remain firmly anchored in its identity, reminding communicators that they serve not merely as disseminators of information but as evangelizers and stewards of truth.

He emphasized this responsibility by declaring: “The work of Catholic media is not merely to inform but to form minds and transform hearts. As communicators of faith, we are called to be witnesses of truth, instruments of peace, and custodians of moral integrity in the digital age.”

He insisted that all Catholic radio stations, television channels, and publications must preserve and reflect the richness of the Catholic faith, “Maintaining Catholic identity in all our communications is essential. Programs, music, and content must reflect the fullness of the Church’s teaching, the beauty of the sacraments, and the richness of our spiritual tradition.”

The bishop gave a strong reminder that audiences depend on Catholic media for sound doctrine and genuine spiritual nourishment.

“The faithful turn to our media for intellectual, moral, and spiritual nourishment, and it is our responsibility to ensure that what they receive is doctrinally sound, culturally relevant, and uplifting,” he stated.

Addressing Catholic content creators, he posed a critical pastoral question: “What will make our Christians switch to our radios, television, or even read our publications?”

He then outlined the guiding principles for programming, anchored on Catholicity, doctrinal soundness, evangelizing music, and authentic storytelling. He urged communicators to ensure that their work becomes “a pulpit of hope, a mirror of truth, and a bridge of communion among peoples.”

With artificial intelligence reshaping global communication, Bishop Nganga warned that technology devoid of moral grounding can become destructive.

He explained, “Artificial Intelligence, while a powerful tool, must serve human dignity and truth. Technology without ethics becomes manipulation. Catholic media’s response must always uphold life, freedom, and moral conscience.”

He urged media houses to strengthen collaboration and reject competition, stating,
“We are not competitors; we are co-workers in God’s field (1 Corinthians 3:9). Sharing information, resources, and training opportunities will strengthen our collective voice and witness.”

Calling for unity among Catholic communicators, Bishop Nganga described collaboration not merely as teamwork but as a theological expression of the Church’s identity.

“Collaboration in our Catholic media is not simply working together for efficiency or convenience, it is a sacramental expression of communion,” he said.

He expanded the vision of unity by reminding participants that each media house has a unique contribution, “No voice is insignificant; every effort, when united, amplifies the message of Christ.” He encouraged radio stations, diocesan offices, publications, clergy, and religious to share skills, break down barriers, and uphold one another, especially during moments of moral or ethical challenge.

Inspiring Progress: Updates from St. Mary’s School and Caritas Garissa

Making a Difference

We’re thrilled to share the latest updates from St. Mary’s School and Caritas Garissa under the patronage of His Lordshib Bishop George Muthaka.

Construction Progress. The construction of the new junior secondary school classrooms at St. Mary’s School is nearing completion. This expansion will provide more educational opportunities for students in the Garissa region.

Environmental Initiatives. The church’s YACA team is making a significant impact on the environment. Their tree-planting efforts are contributing to a greener and more sustainable community.

Caritas Garissa’s Growth. Caritas Garissa continues to expand its reach and services. They have been actively building partnerships with organizations worldwide to enhance their ability to support the community.

Get Involved. We encourage you to learn more about the incredible work being done by Catholic Diocese of Garissa. Consider making a donation or volunteering your time to support these important initiatives.

Enhancing the OCA Process: A Collaborative Approach

The Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCA) conducted in partnership with the dioceses was instrumental in identifying the strengths and gaps within Caritas Garissa. With the Bishop’s full endorsement, the process laid a solid foundation for targeted capacity development.

Key Elements of the OCA Process:

 

  • Diocesan Engagement: The active participation of dioceses was essential in providing valuable insights into local contexts and priorities. Their ownership of the process ensured the relevance and sustainability of the subsequent actions.
  • Comprehensive Assessment: A thorough evaluation of human resources, financial management, organizational structure, and partnerships enabled a comprehensive understanding of Caritas Garissa’s capabilities.
  • Strategic Action Planning: The OCA findings informed the development of tailored action plans for each diocese, addressing specific capacity gaps and leveraging existing strengths.

Benefits of Bishop’s Endorsement: The Bishop’s support was pivotal in galvanizing commitment and resources for capacity development initiatives. It strengthened the organization’s position within the community and facilitated collaboration with key stakeholders.

Next Steps:To maximize the impact of the OCA, Caritas Garissa should prioritize the following:

  • Implementation of Action Plans: Allocate necessary resources and establish clear timelines for executing capacity building activities.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Track progress, measure outcomes, and make adjustments as needed.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Document and disseminate lessons learned to inform future initiatives and strengthen organizational learning.

Expanding Horizons: Updates from the Catholic Diocese of Garissa

Exciting Expansion at St. Mary’s Primary School

We’re thrilled to unveil the exciting expansion of St. Mary’s Primary School, nestled within our cathedral grounds. This project is a testament to our commitment to providing top-tier education and nurturing the potential of our youth.

Empowering Sustainability with CEI’s Solar Initiative

Thanks to the generous support of the Conferenza Episcopale Italiana (CEI), we’ve successfully launched a transformative solar installation project. Not only does this initiative enhance energy efficiency, but it also champions sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

Transforming Communities through STAWI Mashinani and MWA

Our partnership in the STAWI Mashinani program, alongside the Millennium Water Alliance (MWA), underscores our dedication to revolutionizing water resource management and uplifting community livelihoods. Recently, Caritas Garissa officials joined us in reaffirming our collaborative efforts during a visit with our Bishop.

Harmony and Talent Shine at Church Choir Competitions – July 13, 2024

We’re excited to share the resounding success of our Church Choir Competitions held on July 13, 2024, at our Cathedral Parish. It was a jubilant celebration of musical prowess and spiritual unity, uniting choirs from local congregations and forging stronger community ties.

Thank you for visiting our blog. Stay tuned for more updates and stories highlighting our dynamic initiatives, community triumphs, and the unwavering spirit of faith and service that defines the Catholic Diocese of Garissa. Together, we continue to thrive and serve with passion and dedication.

Caritas Garissa Community engagement

Caritas Garissa is actively engaging the community in Balambala Subcounty in the development of a sub-catchment management plan. This initiative is part of the broader community development efforts led by the Catholic Diocese of Garissa. These efforts aim to enhance sustainable resource management and improve the quality of life for the local community. The collaboration emphasizes the importance of involving local stakeholders in the planning and implementation process to ensure that the solutions are tailored to the specific needs and challenges of the area.

Ongoing Developments in the Catholic Diocese of Garissa: Guided by the Leadership of His Lordship Bishop Rev. George Muthaka

Exciting Times Ahead: Ongoing Developments in the Catholic Diocese of Garissa

Hello everyone,

I hope this message finds you well. I am thrilled to share some wonderful updates about the exciting developments happening in our beloved Catholic Diocese of Garissa. Our community is vibrant and growing, and we have several initiatives underway that I believe will make a significant impact on our spiritual and communal life.

Building Our Faith Community: New Church Construction

First and foremost, we are witnessing the construction of new churches across our diocese. These projects are not just about building structures; they are about creating sacred spaces where we can come together to worship, pray, and support one another. Notable progress includes:

  • St. Joseph Masalani, Wenje Parish: With the foundation laid, we are now moving forward with the construction of the walls. The community’s enthusiasm and participation in this project are truly heartwarming.
  • Our Lady of Peace outstation in Dadaab: The Construction progress of the the church is quite motivating and the willingness of members gives us hope and faith to keep going and continue building the Church and sprending the gospel.

Continued Expansion of St. Mary’s School at the Cathedral

St. Mary’s School, a significant part of our cathedral community, is undergoing major expansion and improvement:

  • New Classrooms: Construction of new classrooms is well underway, providing more space and better facilities for our growing student body.
  • Enhanced Facilities: Upgrades to the school’s infrastructure include improved laboratories, a modern library, and new sports facilities, ensuring a holistic education for our students.

Commissioning of the Pastoral Center

We are excited to announce the commissioning of our Pastoral Center in the diocese. This center serves as a hub for various pastoral activities, training programs, and community gatherings:

  • Training and Retreats: The center will host workshops, retreats, and pastoral training sessions to strengthen our clergy and lay leaders.
  • Community Engagement: It will also serve as a space for fostering community spirit, organizing outreach programs, and promoting spiritual growth among parishioners.

Commissioning of the Caritas Office

We are excited to announce the commissioning of the new Caritas Office in our diocese. Caritas plays a crucial role in our mission of social outreach and development. The new office will:

  • Coordinate Relief Efforts: Enhance our ability to respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies and provide aid to those in need.
  • Support Development Programs: Oversee various development programs, including education, healthcare, and food security projects, ensuring they are well-managed and impactful.

Empowering Through Education

Education is a cornerstone of our mission, and we are expanding our programs to reach more children and adults:

  • Scholarship Program: This year, we are proud to provide scholarships to high school students, ensuring they have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
  • Adult Literacy Classes: New classes have started in three additional parishes, offering adults the chance to improve their literacy skills and open up new opportunities.

Enhancing Healthcare Services

Access to healthcare is crucial, and we are making strides in this area:

  • Mobile Clinics: Two new mobile clinics will soon begin serving our remote communities, providing essential healthcare services where they are needed most.
  • St. Joseph Health Center: Renovations are nearly complete, and we will soon offer expanded services, including specialized maternal and child health care, which is a vital need in our community.

Strengthening Our Community

Our outreach programs continue to grow, addressing critical needs and fostering resilience:

  • Food Security Projects: Through community gardens and sustainable farming workshops, we are helping families improve their food security and self-sufficiency.
  • Water Access Programs: Borehole drilling projects are underway in some of our driest areas, bringing the precious gift of clean water to more people.

Inspiring and Engaging Our Youth

Youth engagement is essential for the future of our community. We are investing in their growth and development through:

  • Youth Leadership Workshops: These workshops are nurturing the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the skills and confidence to make a difference.
  • Sports and Recreational Programs: We are developing new sports facilities to encourage teamwork, physical health, and a sense of community among our youth.

These developments are a testament to what we can achieve together with faith, dedication, and the unwavering support of our community members, donors, and volunteers. Each project reflects our commitment to serving God and our neighbors, fostering a sense of unity and purpose.

I invite you all to join us in prayer for the success of these initiatives. If you would like to get involved or support our projects, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the diocesan office or visit our website.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we are making a difference!

Blessings,

Communications Director
Catholic Diocese of Garissa

Call or visit us.

+254.707052668

Catholic Diocese Of Garissa
P.O.Box 7 – 70100, Garissa – Kenya

info@garissacatholic.org 

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