“Be strong, protect your families and stand together through the challenges of marriage. Welcome God into your homes, love one another and never allow difficulties to destroy your families.”
This was the message of His Lordship Rt. Rev. John Mwandi to ten couples who solemnized their marriages at Holy Spirit Mulutu Parish during a Holy Mass he presided over.
During the celebration, three members of the Catholic Men Association (CMA) were commissioned into the St. Joseph Devotion. The occasion also provided an opportunity for parishioners to bid farewell to and express their appreciation to Bishop Mwandi for his dedicated service as their former parish priest before his appointment as Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui. The parishioners reaffirmed their continued solidarity with him in his episcopal ministry.
In his homily, Bishop Mwandi urged the couples to remain strong in their marriages, protect their families and support one another through life’s challenges. He encouraged them to resolve disagreements wisely, remain committed to each other during difficult moments and always turn to God for strength and guidance.
He further reminded parents of their responsibility to nurture their children in the faith, guide them through life and serve as good role models. He described children as gifts from God and cautioned parents against comparing them with others, encouraging them instead to appreciate and support each child’s unique gifts and potential.
Addressing the couples, Rev. Fr. John Sila congratulated them on receiving the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony and urged them to cherish it by living out the values of love, humility, equality and dedication. He also encouraged them to embrace these virtues, which he noted were among the qualities exemplified by Bishop Mwandi.
Speaking on behalf of the parish, Linus Munyao called on parishioners to continue supporting the Church and reaffirmed their continued solidarity with the Bishop.
The celebration also reflected the commitment of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui to promoting the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony through its Diocesan Pastoral Strategic Plan 2024–2028, under the theme “A Call to Mission and Self-Reliance.”
Under the pillar of Evangelization and Sacraments, the Diocese seeks to strengthen participation in the sacraments, foster vibrant faith communities and promote the spiritual growth of the faithful. The initiative also encourages simple and cost-effective weddings, making the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony accessible to couples without placing them under unnecessary financial pressure.
