The Catholic Church in Kenya is set to witness a significant event as the newly appointed Bishop-Elect of the Military Ordinariate, Rt. Rev. Wallace Ng’ang’a, extends an open invitation to the faithful and well-wishers across all dioceses to join him for his Apostolic Installation on October 12, 2024.
The ceremony will take place at Ulinzi Sports Complex, Lang’ata, Nairobi, marking a pivotal moment for the Church and the Military Ordinariate.
In a message to the Christian community, Bishop Ng’ang’a reassured attendees that, despite the heightened security customary to military functions, the event would remain a sacred and joyous Church celebration.
He emphasized that everyone, regardless of whether they have their national identification cards, is welcome to participate.
“I invite all Christians from all dioceses to come and witness this ceremony, as the Military Ordinariate service cuts across every diocese in the country,” said Bishop Ng’ang’a.
Reflecting on his unexpected appointment, Rt. Rev. Ng’ang’a expressed his surprise, noting that it had only been four months since his ordination as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Nairobi.
He admitted that he was still familiarizing himself with his episcopal duties when the news came that he would now serve the Military Ordinariate.
“I was in the process of learning the norms of the episcopate, and all of a sudden, I am told that I am going to another area. However, I took it with humility, and I am ready to serve the people of God in the Military Ordinariate, even though I am going there as a civilian,” the Bishop remarked with humility.
He also acknowledged the unique challenges of this role and expressed his hope that through God’s grace, he would rise to the occasion.
“I look forward to interacting with the military personnel and learning how they operate. There are many things I still need to understand, but with God’s help, I am confident I will fulfill my calling.”
This significant appointment highlights the Church’s role in all sectors of society, including the armed forces, offering pastoral care and spiritual guidance to military personnel and their families.
The upcoming celebration promises to be a moment of unity and prayer as the Catholic faithful join in support of Bishop Ng’ang’a in this new chapter of his ministry.
Story by Rose Achiego Ande.
