On May 1, 2026, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitale, Henry Juma Odonya, presided over a Holy Mass to mark the Feast of Saint Joseph the Worker together with the parents of priests and religious men and women of the diocese. The celebration took place at the Bishop’s residence in Milimani and brought together priests, religious, deacons, and their families in a spirit of joy, gratitude, and communion. The day’s events began with the blessing of the Grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a moment that beautifully reflected the deep faith and devotion of the faithful to Mary, Mother of the Church.

In his homily, Bishop Odonya emphasized the vital role of the family in nurturing vocations to the priesthood and religious life. He described the family as the first school of faith and a foundational pillar in the call to serve God. He warmly commended parents for the care, values, and guidance they have instilled in their children, many of whom now serve faithfully as priests and religious. He noted that their dedication has borne lasting fruit in the life of the Church through committed and selfless servants.

In his pastoral message, the Bishop offered a special blessing to all the parents present and assured them of his continued prayers. He also invited them to keep praying for the Church’s shepherds, that they may carry out their mission with wisdom, humility, and unwavering fidelity. Extending his message beyond the gathering, he conveyed heartfelt wishes to all workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day, encouraging them to fulfill their responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and generosity of spirit, inspired by the example of Saint Joseph the Worker.

Following the celebration, the parents shared a meal with the Bishop, priests, and religious in an atmosphere of love, unity, and fellowship an expression of the strong bond between the Church’s leadership and the families who so generously support its mission.