Six Jesuits Ordained Priests in Nairobi
On Saturday, June 20th, six Jesuit Deacons, were ordained Priests in the Pedro Arrupe community chapel, at the Mwangaza Jesuit Spirituality Centre, in Nairobi-Kenya. The six Ordinands represented three provinces of the Society of Jesus in Africa namely: Eastern Africa Province (AOR), Zimbabwe-Mozambique Province (ZIM), and North-West Africa (ANW).
The ceremony commenced at 1000hrs EAT, and was streamed on YouTube through the Jesuits Eastern Africa Province channel. As COVID-19 pandemic continues to loom, it has affected such occasions which are usually marked by colourful celebrations, and mass attendance not only by Jesuits but, families, friends and partners in mission. On this special occasion, therefore, as the six pronounced their priestly vows, the virtual space provided an opportunity to unite in prayer and to celebrate their achievement.
The ordaining prelate, Rt. Rev. Bishop Rodrigo Mejia in his homily reminded the Ordinands of the importance of the mission of the Society of Jesus at the service of others, and that this event did not mark an end to their formation as Jesuits, rather a sign of a journey in advancing the mission of the universal church. He urged them to be teachers, leaders, and shepherds sanctifying God's people through the Holy Eucharist.
The Mass was concelebrated by Father Provincial of Eastern Africa Province (AOR), Fr. Joseph Afulo SJ, and the Rector of Hekima, Fr. Deogratius Rwezaura SJ.
The ceremony concluded with a reception at the Mwangaza grounds with the cutting of a cake, followed by food and drinks.
Congratulations to the ordained priests namely:
1. Charles Lwanga SJ - Eastern Africa Province (AOR) 2. Tendai Elton SJ - Zimbabwe-Mozambique (ZIM) 3. Charles Madu SJ - North-West Africa (ANW) 4. Frank Taruwona SJ - Zimbabwe-Mozambique (ZIM) 5. Paul Umoh SJ - North-West Africa (ANW) 6. Francis Koshoffa SJ - North-West Africa (ANW)
Group photo of the newly ordained with Bishop Rt. Rev. Rodrigo Mejia
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