Bishop Henry Juma Odonya presided over the Funeral Mass for the late Mama Pauline Jeptoo LeLei, Mother to Father Josephat Kipngetich Busieney of St. Paul’s Centre, Waitaluk (Sirende Parish) within the Catholic Diocese of Kitale.
The Mass was attended by Bishop Emeritus Maurice Anthony Crawley, Vicar General Father Peter Nyamache, as well as priests, religious men and women, deacons, catechists, relatives, friends and the faithful from various parts of the Diocese, all gathered to pay their final respects to the deceased and offer comfort to her family.
In his homily, Bishop Odonya reminded the faithful that every human being has an appointed time to depart from this world, emphasizing that death is an inevitable part of life’s journey. He noted that while people often face challenges and questions regarding the afterlife, believers should continue to live with hope rooted in their faith in God.
Bishop Odonya urged the faithful to open their hearts to God so that His Word might find a place in their lives, while striving to live in accordance with His will. He emphasized the importance of remaining spiritually prepared at all times, as no one knows the day or hour of their encounter with the Lord or the moment of their death. He called upon the faithful to lead holy lives and to persevere in the faith. Furthermore, he offered comfort to the family of Father Josephat Kipngetich Busieney and commended them to God, praying that He grants them solace, peace and strength during this difficult time of mourning. He urged them to continue relying on God and to seek His help in enduring the pain of losing their loved one.
Reflecting on the hope of the resurrection, Bishop Odonya pointed the faithful to the example of Jesus Christ, who suffered, died, was buried and rose again for the salvation of humanity. He emphasized that through Christ, believers find the hope of eternal life and true rest once their earthly journey concludes. He also prayed that God would welcome the soul of the late Mama Pauline into His heavenly kingdom.
On behalf of the Catholic Diocese of Kitale and on his own behalf, the Bishop extended condolences to the family of the deceased, praying that the God of peace would comfort them, strengthen their faith and grant them peace of heart throughout the mourning period.
The late Mama Pauline Jeptoo LeLei was blessed with six children: Edwin Kibwambok, Henry Kosgei, Father Josephat Kipngetich Busienei, Julia Chebet, Jackline Chepkemboi and Eldad Kiprop. She was remembered as a mother dedicated to raising her family, a devotion that bore fruit in the calling of one of her children to the priesthood. Furthermore, she was a woman of prayer. She once led the Catholic Women’s Association (CWA) for three years and was a dedicated choir member.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her; may she rest in peace. Amen.