The Catholic Church in Kenya witnessed a joyous and historic occasion as 6 novices made their first vows, and seven junior sisters became perpetual members of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mary of Kakamega (SMK), during a moving Holy Mass. The Mass was presided over by His Excellency Archbishop Hubertus Matheus Maria van Megen, the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, who expressed his deep joy at the growth of the congregation and the dedication of the women committing their lives to God.
The congregation, founded in 1932 by the late Bishop Bandsma, a Mill Hill Missionary, has a rich history rooted in the diocese of Kakamega, where it continues to flourish as a beacon of faith and service. Bishop Bandsma requested the assistance of the Ursuline Sisters from Bergen-Holland to help train African girls who aspired to become religious sisters. These women were empowered through religious formation and skills training, enabling them to teach and assist other girls and women in becoming self-sufficient and improving their living standards.
The ceremony was particularly significant for the local church, as Sr. Martha, from Kipini Sub-Parish in the Catholic Diocese of Malindi, made her first vows. Sr. Martha is the very first woman from her sub-parish to take this momentous step, marking a new chapter in the history of religious vocations in the region. Her commitment to God and the congregation has inspired many in her community, demonstrating the widespread reach and growing importance of religious life among women in Kenya.
In his homily, Archbishop van Megen commended the six new novices for their deep faith and courage in responding to God's call. He also highlighted the importance of religious congregations like the Sisters of Mary of Kakamega in not only fostering spiritual growth but also uplifting communities through education, healthcare, and service to the poor.
Among those who made their perpetual vows were seven junior sisters who have completed their formation and are now fully integrated into the life of the congregation. Their commitment to living the charism of the congregation, rooted in faith and service, marks a new milestone in the ongoing mission of the SMK congregation.
As the congregation rejoices in this momentous occasion, the Catholic Church extends its congratulations to Sr. Martha and her fellow sisters, affirming their courageous decision to say "yes" to God's call. The growth of the Sisters of Mary of Kakamega stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and vocation, and it is hoped that many more young women will continue to be inspired to follow in their footsteps.
we congratulate Sr. Martha and her sisters for saying yes to God's call.