On a bright Saturday morning, March 1, 2025, Hekima University College witnessed a momentous occasion at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Nairobi. In a historic ceremony presided over by Bishop Rodrigo Mejía Saldarriaga, SJ, Vicar Apostolic Emeritus of Soddo, Ethiopia, 26 candidates were ordained to the diaconate and priesthood. Clergy, religious communities, formation delegates, and the faithful from across the continent gathered to celebrate this sacred milestone, with the event streamed live on Hekima University College’s YouTube channel.
Bishop Rodrigo emphasized that priesthood is not a pursuit of status but a vocation of service. Quoting scripture, he proclaimed, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” He reminded the ordinands and congregation alike that the call to priestly and diaconal service is a divine initiative, not a personal ambition.
Among the ordinands, 15 belonged to the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), while 10 hailed from partnering congregations, including the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI), the Missionaries of the Holy Cross (MXY), and the Society of African Missions (SME). Notably, only two from MXY were ordained priests, while the others embraced the diaconate. Representing diverse regions of the African continent, including Madagascar, their ordination signified a deep commitment to the Church’s mission and their transformative journey of formation.
Bishop Rodrigo explained that the sacrament of Holy Orders consists of three degrees—the diaconate, priesthood, and episcopate—each with distinct responsibilities but all sharing the essence of service. He stressed that deacons are not merely transitioning to the priesthood but have an essential mission rooted in charity and justice, particularly in serving the marginalized. Reflecting on the significance of the event, he noted that this ordination—the largest ever held in Kenya on a single day—was a remarkable milestone. However, he urged the faithful to rejoice not in the numbers but in accordance with the Gospel, praying that the names of the newly ordained be written in the Book of Life.
A sacred and historic moment unfolded when Bishop Rodrigo, in an unusual but meaningful gesture, delivered his homily while seated. With a warm smile, he justified his choice by referencing the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus preached from a mountainside while seated, saying, “So I follow His example.” This unexpected moment infused the solemn occasion with a touch of humility and humor, drawing smiles from the congregation while reinforcing the spiritual depth of the event.
The formation of a priest is a rigorous and transformative journey that requires years of philosophical and theological studies, pastoral training, and spiritual exercises. Candidates cultivate an intimate relationship with God through prayer, retreats, and guidance from spiritual directors. Alongside their academic pursuits, they engage in ministries that shape them as compassionate shepherds. The ordination ceremony itself is a sacred rite, beginning with the calling and presentation of the candidates to the bishop. After the homily, the ordinands prostrate themselves as the congregation chants the Litany of Saints, symbolizing their surrender to God’s will. The bishop then lays hands on each candidate, invoking the Holy Spirit to consecrate them for their mission. The newly ordained receive their vestments and anointing with sacred chrism, signifying their full integration into ordained ministry.
As deacons, they assume a threefold mission: to govern, sanctify, and teach. They become pillars of support within their communities, offering pastoral care, preaching the Gospel, and assisting in the sacraments. Through their ministry, they guide the faithful, teach catechism, and lead initiatives that extend the Church’s reach to those most in need. As priests, they take on an even greater role, celebrating the Eucharist, administering the sacraments, shepherding their congregations, and serving as spiritual leaders. They provide counsel, promote social justice, and uphold the teachings of the Church, ensuring that faith remains a living and transformative force in the lives of the faithful.
Amid the joy of the ordination, a heartfelt moment of gratitude was expressed by Rev. Deacon Josky Odhiambo Okumu and Rev. Fr. Alphonse Kitheka Kimilu, MXY, on behalf of the newly ordained. They acknowledged the many hands that had guided them—family members, catechists, teachers, lecturers, and formators—who had nurtured their vocations from the very beginning. Citing St. Paul’s words in Romans 10:14, they reflected on the privilege of having received the Gospel through those who came before them. Special thanks were extended to the faculty and community of Hekima University College, whose unwavering support had made the ordination possible. With the encouragement of St. Ignatius of Loyola’s famous words to St. Francis Xavier—”Go forth and set the world on fire”—they embraced their mission with renewed zeal.
As the ordination drew to a close, a profound sense of purpose filled the air as the newly ordained stood ready to embark on their sacred mission. Entrusted with the duty of shepherding souls, they stepped forward to illuminate the world with Christ’s grace. This moment at Hekima University College was more than a celebration of numbers—it was a testament to faith, dedication, and unwavering commitment. The Society of Jesus and its partner congregations rejoiced, confident that these young men would be steadfast servants in their respective ministries. Their journey was only beginning, but with Christ as their guide, they moved forward in faith and service.
For those who feel called to this path of service and wish to explore a vocation with the Jesuits, we invite you to learn more at Jesuit Vocations. The journey of faith and service is open to all who seek to dedicate their lives to God’s mission.
By Geoffrey Obatsa
Jesuit Historical Institute in Africa