The Catholic faithful in Nandi are preparing for three days of prayer, ahead of the impending installation of Bishop John Kiplimo Lelei.
The cleric is the first Bishop of the newly created Kapsabet Diocese and the historic occasion has been scheduled for August 29 to 31.
The festivities will open on 29th with a grand procession and vigil prayers at the Kapsabet Catholic Church.
Choirs, youth groups, and women’s guilds will lead praise and worship sessions, as thousands gather to spiritually prepare for the ordination.
The second day, will be the highlight, when Bishop Lelei is ordained and officially installed during a solemn Holy Mass at Eliud Kipchoge Sports complex in Kapsabet town.
The mass will be presided over by the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya Hurbertus Maria van Megen alongside the Archbishop of Eldoret Rev. Dominic Kimengich and bishops from across the country.
The event is expected to attract thousands of Christians, clergy and leaders.
On August 31, the faithful will conclude the celebrations with a thanksgiving service and cultural extravaganza, featuring traditional Nandi dances, youth choirs, and musical performances at St. Peters Catholic church in Kapsabet town.
Leaders have pledged to support the new diocese both spiritually and socially.
During a fundraising Mass on Sunday at Kapsabet Catholic Church, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula called for unity ahead of the historic installation.
“The installation of Bishop Lelei is not just for Catholics; it is a blessing for the whole community. We call on everyone leaders and faithful alike to support the Diocese so that it may grow strong from the very beginning,” he said.
The national assembly speaker commended the faithful for their perseverance and commitment saying, the creation of the Kapsabet Diocese is a testimony of faith and endurance.
Nandi Governor Stephen Sang described Bishop Lelei’s appointment as a blessing for the County and vowed to fully support the church.
“This installation is a unifying milestone for our people and a moment of pride for the entire Nandi community,” he said.
Former Cabinet Minister Henry Kosgey, who was among the pioneers advocating for the creation of the new diocese, said the installation was the fruit of long prayers and persistence.
“For decades, we petitioned the Vatican for a Diocese in Kapsabet. Today, our prayers have been answered, and future generations will benefit from a stronger presence of the church,” he said.
Nandi Woman Rep Cynthia Muge lauded the moment as historic for women and youth.
“The new diocese means more opportunities for our young people and women, who are the backbone of the church. Bishop Lelei’s leadership will ensure no one is left behind,” she said.
Nandi Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Mitei echoed the same sentiments, emphasizing inclusivity.
“This Diocese will be a pillar not just of faith, but of community development. It will uplift families, empower the vulnerable, and give hope to generations,” added Mitei.
Patrick Kitur, Moderator of the Eldoret Diocese, described the incoming Bishop as a devoted servant of God.
“He has been a pillar of faith for decades, and this appointment is well deserved,” he said.
The creation of the Kapsabet Diocese marks a major milestone for Catholics in Nandi and the wider Rift Valley. Until now, the faithful in the region were under the Diocese of Eldoret, which covered a vast geographical area stretching across several counties.
The new Diocese will bring services closer to the people, ease pastoral work, and strengthen evangelization at the grassroots.
It is also expected to spur the growth of Catholic-sponsored schools, health facilities, and community development projects in Nandi.
Joseph Maiyo, a youth leader from Emgwen Sub County said, “For a long time, our Diocese was too wide, and youth programs hardly reached us. Now we will have activities closer home that will nurture our talents and faith.”
The 66 year old Bishop Lelei was born in Soy and has served the Catholic Church for over two decades. He was ordained in the early 2000s under the Diocese of Eldoret.
He holds a Doctorate in Theology, specializing in liturgy, from the University of Vienna.
He has served in various pastoral positions like Vicar in Suwerwa and Chepterit, as well as Parish Priest in Yamumbi, Tachasis, Kapcherop, Tindinyo, and Kapsabet
He Studied philosophy at St. Augustine’s Senior Seminary (Mabanga) and theology at St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary (Nairobi)
Lelei is widely respected for his pastoral approach, calm leadership style and commitment to grassroots evangelism and education
He is celebrated for his deep liturgical knowledge, service in formation and seminary governance, as well as his pastoral dedication to families and youth.
His appointment is seen as a milestone, ushering in localized spiritual leadership and growth in the Nandi region
The installation and elevation of the Kapsabet Diocese is being hailed as both a spiritual triumph and a social milestone, with thousands expected to take part in the three-day celebrations.
By Linet Wafula
