On the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Bishop Henry Juma Odonya of the Catholic Diocese of Kitale presided over the Holy Mass for the opening and blessing of the St. Thomas the Apostle Center within Sirende Parish, during which he also administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to the faithful. The Bishop celebrated Mass alongside the Parish Priest of Sirende, Father George Bakasa and Father Cyprian Tum, with catechists and parishioners from various parts of the parish in attendance.

In his homily, Bishop Odonya emphasized the importance of listening to and acting upon the Word of God as a source of comfort and guidance in a world filled with challenges. He urged the faithful to maintain family unity by sharing meals together without the distraction of mobile phones, noting that this practice strengthens communication, love and solidarity.

Reflecting on the Gospel passage regarding the guests invited to the banquet, he warned the faithful against disregarding God’s invitation, encouraging them instead to strengthen their faith, practice humility and rely on God in all circumstances of life.

Bishop Odonya stressed that the center should serve as a house of prayer and a place for listening to the Word of God, while cautioning against introducing politics into the church. He also encouraged the faithful to pray the Rosary and to deepen their spiritual lives. Speaking about the Sacrament of Confirmation, he explained to the recipients that it marked a new beginning in their journey of faith, urging them to allow the Holy Spirit to guide them and grant them the courage to be witnesses to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

For his part, the Parish Priest of Sirende, Father George Bakasa, thanked the faithful for turning out in large numbers and all those who contributed to the success of the celebration, encouraging them to continue cooperating in strengthening the faith and the development of the parish.