In a major development for the Catholic Church in Kenya, Pope Leo XIV has officially named Reverend Father Obed Muriungi Karobia as the new Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Nairobi.
This appointment marks an important moment for the Church, especially at a time when leadership and guidance remain crucial for the growing Catholic community in the country.
The announcement was formally made on Thursday, March 26, during the 1 pm Mass held at the iconic Holy Family Minor Basilica in Nairobi.
The declaration was delivered by the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Bert van Megen, in front of a congregation of faithful who responded with joy and celebration upon hearing the news.
As Auxiliary Bishop, Bishop-elect Muriungi will play a key role in supporting the Archbishop in both spiritual and administrative duties within the Archdiocese.
The Archdiocese of Nairobi is one of the most influential Catholic institutions in East Africa, serving a large and diverse population, and his appointment is expected to strengthen its leadership structure.
Born on June 29, 1979, in Meru County, Obed Muriungi Karobia has devoted most of his life to serving the Church. His journey in religious life has been marked by commitment and discipline.
He made his solemn vows in 2010 under the Order of Friars Minor Conventual, a global Catholic religious order known for its missionary and pastoral work. Two years later, in 2012, he was ordained as a priest, officially beginning his pastoral ministry.
Throughout his years of service, Bishop-elect Muriungi has taken on several important leadership roles that have shaped his experience.
Notably, he served as the first Minister Provincial of the newly established Province of St. Francis of Assisi in Kenya, a position that placed him at the center of guiding and organizing the Franciscan mission in the country.
In addition to that, he worked as a parish priest at St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in South C, Nairobi, where he was actively involved in community service and spiritual guidance.
He also served as a Vocations Promoter for the Conventual Franciscan Friars in Kenya, helping to mentor and inspire young men considering religious life.
In an official statement, the Archdiocese of Nairobi confirmed the appointment, noting that Pope Leo XIV had selected Rev. Fr. Obed Muriungi Karobia, O.F.M Conventual, to serve as Auxiliary Bishop.
The Church also highlighted that he becomes the first Conventual Franciscan friar and missionary to be elevated to the position of bishop in Kenya, describing this as a historic and inspiring milestone for the Franciscan community in the country.
This appointment reflects the Vatican’s continued commitment to strengthening Church leadership in Kenya.
By bringing in experienced and dedicated clergy, the Church aims to remain active and responsive to the spiritual, social, and pastoral needs of its followers across the region.
Interestingly, this development comes just a day after another episcopal appointment by the Pope. Reverend Simon Peter Kamomoe was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of Wote in Makueni County.
This followed the resignation of Reverend Paul Kariuki, who stepped down due to ongoing health challenges that had made it difficult for him to fully carry out his duties as a bishop.
The resignation of Bishop Kariuki was first announced in Rome on Wednesday, March 25, and the information was later communicated to members of the Kenyan episcopate through Archbishop Bert van Megen.
His departure marks the end of a period of service, while also opening the way for new leadership to continue guiding the faithful in that region.
Overall, these recent changes highlight an active period of transition and renewal within the Catholic Church in Kenya, as it continues to strengthen its leadership and respond to the needs of its growing community.
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