The Catholic Diocese of Kitui today has celebrated its Annual Diocesan Family Day at St. John Paul II Institute School, beginning with a Holy Mass presided over by Rt. Rev. Joseph Mwongela. The event aimed at raising funds in aid of various Diocesan Pastoral Projects and expressing gratitude for the blessings of growth and unity within the diocese.
In his homily, Bishop Mwongela urged the faithful to remain hopeful, united, and grateful for the progress made in the diocese. “Always rejoice in what we have done and move forward,” he said, calling on Christians to celebrate achievements while continuing to work together in faith and determination.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by the region, Bishop Mwongela noted that although Kitui experiences harsh and dry conditions, its people have shown remarkable resilience and creativity. “We may lack rain, but we have brains,” he remarked, praising the innovation and determination of the faithful. He emphasized the importance of networking, innovation, and collaboration in driving growth and self-reliance within the diocese.
Bishop Mwongela further stressed accountability, transparency, and prudent utilization of Church resources, reminding the faithful that responsible stewardship is a sign of true faith. “Invest well and utilize the resources wisely. Let us do what is right and be content with what we have,” he said. He also encouraged ethical business practices, urging Christians to live out their faith daily: “Sanctify the world in your daily work. Do clean business, and you will be rewarded for ethical entrepreneurship.”
Immediately after the Mass, Bishop Mwongela officially launched the Kikamba Lectionary, Kamba Rites, and new Mass Wine, marking a significant moment for the Diocese of Kitui in its ongoing efforts to enrich liturgical life and pastoral ministry.
Through the generosity of the faithful, the Diocese of Kitui raised an impressive Ksh 77 million in support of pastoral work and diocesan development.
To recognize exceptional performance, parishes that surpassed their fundraising targets were each awarded a motorbike for evangelization, a tool meant to enhance pastoral outreach and mobility. The awarded parishes were:
1. Class E: Mathuki Parish
2. Class D: Mbitini Parish
3. Class C: Ikanga Parish
4. Class B: Mulutu Parish
5. Class A: Kabati Parish
6. Class A Special: Boma Parish
The most improved Church organ, the Pontifical Missionary Childhood (PMC), was also honored with a motorbike in recognition of its outstanding growth and contribution to evangelization.
The Family Day was attended by clergy, religious men and women, lay faithful, and guests from within and outside the diocese, making it a remarkable testament to unity, generosity, and faith driven commitment to the mission of the Church in the Diocese of Kitui.