By L, KNA
Jubilant scenes filled St Peter’s Catholic Church in Kapsabet, as newly installed Bishop John Lelei presided over his first Mass, a day after his historic installation.
The Saturday ceremony, graced by President William Ruto at Eliud Kipchoge Stadium marked a new chapter for the Catholic faithful in Nandi.
For thousands in the region, the diocese is not only a spiritual home but also a vital force in education, healthcare, and social development. From running schools to championing hospitals and community projects, the Catholic Church is deeply woven into the fabric of local life.
On Sunday, worshippers thronged the church to celebrate with their new bishop. Leaders in attendance pledged to support him in strengthening the church and uplifting the community.
Governor Stephen Sang congratulated the bishop, describing his elevation as a blessing for Nandi. “We are proud that one of our own has been entrusted with this responsibility. As leaders, we will support Bishop Lelei in fostering unity, strengthening families, and growing the parish,” he said.
Other leaders echoed similar sentiments, noting that the installation comes at a time when the church continues to stand as a moral compass and development partner in the society.
During Saturday’s installation, President Ruto lauded the Catholic Church for its enduring role in nation-building and urged leaders to emulate Bishop Lelei’s humility and service.
“The Catholic Church has been a pillar of education, health, and peace in our country. Bishop Lelei’s installation is not just a win for Nandi but for Kenya as a whole. I urge all of us, especially leaders, to work with the church in building a society founded on integrity, compassion, and unity,” the President said.
In his homily, Bishop Lelei urged the faithful to safeguard peace, unity, and family values. “The diocese belongs to all of us. It is where we are nourished in faith, where our children learn, and where the community finds hope. I call upon all of us to be instruments of unity, to strengthen families, and to serve with humility,” he said.
He added, “This is not my work alone, it is the work of the people, and I will serve alongside the priests and the faithful,” he said, drawing applause from the congregation.
The Bishop outlined his vision for the diocese, calling for both spiritual renewal and practical growth. “We need to enhance and deepen the faith of our people. At the same time, we will build vital infrastructure, a secretariat, a cathedral, a training centre, among others. Expansion is key,” he affirmed.
Mary Jepchumba, a parishioner from Kapsabet, said, “Bishop Lelei understands our culture, our families, and our struggles. We know he will walk with us in faith and development.”
Bishop Lelei, 66, was born in Soy, Nandi County, and has served the Catholic Church for over two decades.
He holds a Doctorate in Theology, specializing in liturgy, from the University of Vienna. He is widely respected for his pastoral approach, calm leadership style, and commitment to grassroots evangelism and education.
Lelei is celebrated for his deep liturgical knowledge, his service in formation and seminary governance, and his dedication to families and youth.
His appointment is seen as a milestone ushering in localized spiritual leadership and growth in the Nandi region, and marking a moment of pride for Catholics who view him as both a shepherd and a son of their soil.
The weekend’s events not only cemented his new role but also signaled renewed commitment among leaders and the faithful to ensure the Diocese of Kapsabet thrives in its mission of spiritual and social transformation.
The newly formed diocese (28 in the country) has been carved out of Catholic Diocese of Eldoret and it will serve the faithful across Nandi County
Bishop Lelei, was officially appointed by Pope Leo XIV on July 10, 2025, to take up the mantle of guiding a growing diocese with deep roots in faith and community life.
As the first shepherd of Kapsabet Diocese, Lelei steps into a historic role, carrying both the hopes of the faithful and the weight of building lasting foundations for the Church’s future in Nandi County.
