“The diaconate means service”: Spiritans Provincial Superior Tells 16 at Ordination in Kenya

Sixteen men were ordained to the diaconate on September 18 at St. John the Evangelist Holy Ghost Parish in the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi, Kenya. The group includes thirteen members of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit and three members of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.

Fr. Fredrick Elima Wafula, the Spiritan Provincial Superior for Kenya and South Sudan, addressed the new deacons during the ceremony. He told the men that their ministry is rooted in service to the world, the altar, and the people of God. Fr. Wafula advised the deacons to prioritize readiness, collaboration, and service as they begin their work in the Church.

Fr. Wafula encouraged the deacons to remain open to learning and to adapt to their assignments. He told them to be ready to listen and to respond generously to whatever tasks they encounter rather than waiting for perfect conditions to serve. He noted that the success of their ministry would be measured by how many people experience Christ through their service rather than by personal recognition.