By Paschal Norbert
MOMBASA, JULY 22, 2025 (CISA) — As Consolata Parish Likoni marked its Golden Jubilee on June 21, 2025, Archbishop Martin Kivuva Musonde of Mombasa praised the Consolata Missionaries for their sustained presence, unique approach to evangelization, and transformative witness to the Gospel over the past 50 years.
Speaking on the sidelines of the celebration, the Archbishop described their legacy as a model of Christ-like service grounded in humility, community engagement, and continuity.
“Fifty years means maturity, you’re well beyond adulthood,” Archbishop Kivuva said. “It’s a major milestone. Take for example the Consolata Missionaries: they have established schools like Allamano and Consolata, and other facilities like health centers. This shows their deep service to the community over time.”
Reflecting on the missionary charism of the Consolatas, Archbishop Kivuva emphasized that their model of evangelization is holistic and responsive to real human needs, complementing state efforts in education, healthcare, and development.
“As a Church, we complement the government in delivering essential services to the people. We don’t argue over identities. If you walk into a Church and ask, ‘Where are you from?’ people will respond with openness and welcome. That is our spirit,” he said.
For Archbishop Kivuva, this style of ministry is deeply rooted in the example of Christ: “We are proud to emulate Christ, not with conflict, but with humility. Christ never argued unnecessarily. He asked for help when needed. He was filled with compassion and brought light to those in darkness. That, to me, is the true meaning of 50 years of mission: bringing light, being present, and making a lasting impact.”
The Archbishop also spoke about the broader contribution of the Consolata Missionaries in Kenya, applauding their long-standing commitment to human development.
“They have been instrumental in setting up schools, hospitals, and development projects. They engage in service delivery in a very unique and effective way, especially in fundraising and mobilizing communities,” he noted.
He further highlighted the significance of the 2024 canonization of their founder, St. Joseph Allamano, calling it a proud moment for the Church in Kenya.
“I was in Rome for the celebration, and it was a deeply spiritual experience. In fact, I now have two relics from some of the churches associated with the Consolata Missionaries,” he shared.
Archbishop Kivuva underlined how the Consolata legacy has expanded beyond its Italian origins, deeply embedding itself in the African Church: “Their missionary efforts are no longer limited to Italian clergy. They have successfully nurtured vocations across Africa. Today, we have five or six bishops in Kenya who are Consolata Missionaries. That infusion of missionary identity into local leadership is a significant strength in evangelization.”
Crucially, the Archbishop applauded the Consolata approach to sustainability and succession. “They do not just ‘drop and go.’ They ensure continuity. Some remain and join the bishops’ conference. Others from different nationalities continue the mission. It is a beautiful model.”
Drawing from his own experience in Church communications, Archbishop Kivuva also commended the Consolatas’ long-standing involvement in Catholic media.
“Communication has always been close to my heart,” he recalled. “I was blessed to work with great people during my time at Ukweli Video Productions—people like Consolata Fathers Gigi and Mkado. We shared a vision of using media to evangelize and empower.”
In particular, he singled out Fr. George Omondi IMC, the current parish priest of Consolata Parish Likoni, as an example of the missionary legacy at work, stating “He now sits on the county board of education and also serves on a local communication board. He is alert, dedicated, and very pleasant to work with.”
As the Consolata Missionaries continue to mark milestones across Kenya and beyond, Archbishop Kivuva’s reflections reaffirm their impact not only as evangelizers but as builders of communities, nurturers of leadership, and torchbearers of Christ’s compassion.
