Saturday, August 9, 2025, was a day of great joy and blessing for the Conventual Franciscan Province of St. Francis of Assisi in Kenya as four friars professed their solemn vows to the Lord. The celebration took place at St. Paul Catholic Parish Church in the Diocese of Nakuru, Kenya, a parish entrusted to the care of the Conventual Franciscans.
The parish community, led by its Pastor, Friar Andrew Austin MUENDO, prepared for this day with much love and dedication. Friar Andrew warmly welcomed the friars, their families and the faithful who had gathered –filling the church with joy and anticipation.
The friars who professed their solemn vows were Friars John Mutisya MUTUKU, Samuel Thiong’o KINYUA, Stanley Kioko MAKAU and Collins Olung’ee WANJALA. Each was accompanied by family members and parishioners from their home communities. The celebration was enriched by vibrant African liturgical dances, heartfelt singing, and the enthusiastic participation of the faithful, making it a truly memorable occasion.
In his homily, the Minister Provincial, Friar Hillary Omondi RADUK, invited all present to reflect deeply on the formula of profession that was used during the vows ceremony. He described it as a guide for the friars’ way of life – one rooted in gratitude, self-giving and the constant awareness of God’s generosity. He also acknowledged the invaluable role of benefactors in supporting the friars’ formation journey, and urged the newly professed to cultivate a lifelong spirit of gratitude.
As the celebration drew to a close, the skies opened and a heavy downpour swept over the parish grounds. In many Kenyan cultures, such rain is seen as a powerful sign of God’s blessing―a fitting conclusion to a day filled with faith, joy, and commitment.
Friar Paul Njuguna KIARIE
