The Archdiocese of Nairobi has welcomed a new Auxiliary Bishop following the episcopal ordination of Rt. Rev. Obed Muriungi Karobia at the Holy Family Minor Basilica in Nairobi.
The significant ceremony attracted hundreds of faithful, clergy, religious leaders, family members, and guests from across the nation, representing an important moment in the Catholic Church’s leadership in Kenya.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, His Excellency Hubertus van Megen, presided over the ordination, calling on Christians and Church leaders to adopt humility and selfless service as the cornerstone of genuine leadership in the Church.
In his address during the celebration, the Vatican envoy emphasized that true greatness in the Church is not determined by authority or position, but by dedication to serving God’s people with compassion, integrity, and commitment.
“Genuine greatness in the Church is rooted in humble service,” he stated, urging the newly appointed bishop to guide the faithful with wisdom, love, and adherence to the Gospel.
Rt. Rev. Obed Muriungi Karobia’s ordination signifies a fresh phase for the Archdiocese of Nairobi as the Church maintains its crucial role in fostering moral values, social justice, education, and peaceful coexistence in society.
Prior to his appointment, Bishop Karobia had established a distinguished reputation within the Church through pastoral work, leadership, and scholarly pursuits. He is currently undertaking a PhD in Psychology at Daystar University, a discipline anticipated to enhance his pastoral mission and improve mental health awareness within religious communities.
The event also emphasized the connection between faith and academia, with high-ranking officials from Daystar University attending to support the new bishop. University leadership, faculty members, and fellow PhD students were among those present.
Church leaders addressing the congregation expressed strong faith in Bishop Karobia’s capacity to assist the Archbishop in serving the expanding Catholic community in Nairobi and further afield. They characterized him as a modest, disciplined, and forward-thinking spiritual leader dedicated to advancing evangelization and pastoral support.
The ordination included special prayers, hymns, scripture readings, and traditional Catholic rituals connected to the consecration of a bishop, creating an environment of happiness and spiritual contemplation in the crowded basilica.
Attendees greeted the appointment positively, noting that the new Auxiliary Bishop’s background in ministry and education would significantly benefit the Church’s purpose, particularly for young people and families confronting contemporary societal issues.
The Archdiocese of Nairobi continues to be one of the most significant Catholic jurisdictions in the area, managing numerous parishes, schools, hospitals, and charitable organizations that persistently influence communities nationwide.