By Wesley Omondi
MARSABIT, NOVEMBER 29, 2024 (CISA)—The Catholic Diocese of Marsabit celebrated its 60th anniversary with a grand Thanksgiving Mass on Saturday, November 23, 2024, marking six decades of evangelization and human development in Kenya’s northeastern region. The event also unveiled two landmark developments: the launch of a diocesan secretariat and the inauguration of a new bishop’s residence.
“We are proud to celebrate the fruits of evangelization over the last 60 years and to unveil these two critical facilities that will enhance the diocese’s operations and leadership,” said Rt Rev Peter Kihara, IMC, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Marsabit, reflecting on the diocese’s journey since its establishment in 1964.
The diocese, founded by the Consolata Missionary, Bishop Carlo Maria Cavallera, began its mission in a challenging environment without any Christian presence, churches, or priests. Early evangelization efforts were spearheaded by ‘Fidei Donum’ priests from Italy, Germany, and Romania.
“At the beginning, there were no Christians, no churches, and no priests. The first missionaries laid the foundation for the Church in this remote region,” Bishop Kihara recalled.
The growth of the diocese has been remarkable, with significant contributions from missionary congregations such as the Consolata Missionaries, Salesians of Don Bosco, Benedictines, and Comboni Missionaries. The diocese now has 17 diocesan priests, 12 Fidei Donum priests, and 13 other missionaries, complemented by 44 nuns and five religious brothers.
“These numbers may seem modest, but they reflect solid foundations for the Church here,” he added, underscoring the vital role of collaboration in the diocese’s progress.
With over 50,000 Catholics and 17 parishes, the Diocese of Marsabit has also prioritized education, building over 80 institutions, including preschools, primary schools, and technical institutions. Education remains a central focus of the diocese’s mission, despite challenges like drought, poverty, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Education is key to success, but many families face difficulties due to the region’s arid conditions and economic hardships. We call on the government to provide free education at all levels to ensure hope and a brighter future for the younger generation,” urged Bishop Kihara.
The diocese’s contributions extend beyond education to human development, fostering social progress among the largely nomadic pastoralist population of its semi-arid territory. The new facilities launched during the celebrations symbolize the diocese’s commitment to improving administrative efficiency and pastoral care.
“The establishment of the diocesan secretariat and the new bishop’s residence are critical milestones, ensuring that we can better serve the faithful and the community,” noted Bishop Kihara.
The anniversary celebrations offered an opportunity for reflection and gratitude for the diocese’s rich history and achievements. Bishop Kihara acknowledged the resilience and dedication of all those who have supported the diocese’s mission over the decades.
The Catholic Diocese of Marsabit, spanning 78,078 square kilometers, was erected in 1964 and carved out of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nyeri .It remains a beacon of hope and development in Kenya’s northeastern region, serving as a testament to the enduring impact of faith and community effort in the region.
