Dear Readers,

It has been a while since we produced Ngong News this year. There has been a lot of happenings in the Diocese of which some will be highlighted in this edition..

The entire Diocese is grateful to His Eminence John Cardinal Njue for his Pastoral care. He is always  ready to listen to all clergy, Religious and the lay faithful. He has been able to visit a number of Parishes encouraging the Christians to be firm in their faith and to be more united. He has also been very grateful to all the Missionaries who did great work of evangelization in the Diocese and especially the Mill Hill Missionaries and the Fidei Donum Priests from Europe.  His words are all over the Diocese, we have come from far , we are far, and we are going far!

We shall continue to pray for His Eminence, so that God may continue to give him strength and good health.

Here in Kenya at the moment the talk everywhere is about the proposed constitution and the forthcoming referendum. Our Bishops have sent out a Pastral letter entitled “Choose life and you will live” in which they have given the way forward for the Catholic faithful. Previously they had issued another letter entitled “STAND UP FOR LIFE” in which they had cautioned the Kenyans on articles 26{paragraph 4} on rights to life which is paramount. Other contentious issues are: articles 169, 170 on the Kadhis courts with their inherent inequality of citizens, family life [art 53], acceptance of international law as the law of our country [art.82], reproductive healthcare [art 43, 1a] and the definition of religious freedom [art.32].

In the view of the above articles and others, our beloved Bishops have advised the people of Kenya to say a BIG NO to the proposed constitution.

Fr. Francis Mwangi

Editor

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The year of Priests came to a close on the 11^th June 2010 when the Holy Father celebrated the Holy Mass with over 15,000 priests in attendant in Rome. In his homily the Holy Father stated, “The Priesthood then is not simply ‘office’ but sacrament: God makes use of us poor men in order to be through us, present to all men and women, and to act on their behalf.”

“This audacity of God who entrusts himself to human beings who, conscious of our weakness, nonetheless considers men capable of acting and being present in his stead – the audacity of God is the true grandeur concealed in the word “Priesthood”: that God thinks that we are capable of this; that in this way he calls men to his service and thus from within binds himself to them; this is what we wanted to reflect upon and appreciate a new over the course of the past year.”

The Pope gave a summary of who a priest is and his role especially as a shepherd Psm 23. The Holy Father deplored upon the Priests to follow the examples  of St. John Mary Vianney  as  the model of priestly ministry for he excelled in human ,Christian and sacerdotal virtues and was truly a Man of God and a Man for others.

Fr. Patrick Arusey represented the Diocese in Rome and has this to share:

The year for priests was closed with colourful celebration by His holiness pope Benedict XVI together with thousands of priests from all over the world who gathered in Rome to praise the Lord and renew their commitments. The celebration of Holy Mass on the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was the closing mass of year but a new beginning for the Priests. We thank God for the privileged period of prayer and reflection on the sacrament of priesthood.

After the celebration I had the opportunity of visiting some parts of Italy. I thank the Missionary Sisters of Catechism for hosting me in their community in Rome for all that period. I thank the Diocese of Ngong for giving me this opportunity to represent all the Priests of the Diocese in Rome.

By Fr Arusey

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DIOCESE OF NGONG

At the Diocesan level, the Mass of the closing of the year of Priest was held on the 24^th June 2010. Bishop David Kamau, the Auxiliary Bishop of Nairobi Archdiocese was the main celebrant representing His Eminence John  Cardinal Njue. Bishop David asked the Christian faithful to always pray for the Priests and to assist them so that they can carry on God’s work of shepherding to the flock.

After the Mass followed a football match between the Priests and the major Seminarians, whereby the Priests thrashed the Seminarians 2-0. Later on lunch was served at the Watakatifu wote Senta.

NATIONALLY

On the 30^th June 2010, His Excellency the Pope’s representative to Kenya, Archbishop Alain Paul Lebeaupin , was the main celebrant at a colorful concelebrated mass at the Holy Family Basilica. His Eminence John Cardinal Njue, Archbishops, Bishops and many priests from all over Kenya  concelebrated with  His Excellency. After the mass the General guildelines on Priesly Discipline and Rule of Life was launched.  All in all the year of Priest has been a period of Grace for many Priests: To all our Priests, “COURAGE”.

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There have been a number of appointments which have been made and effected as follows:-

1. Fr. Antony F. Ndungu - Rector at  O.S.A.S
2. Fr. Paul Kibet -Vice Rector  at O.S.A.S
3. Fr. Joseph Nkalami - Assistant Priest at Loitokitok
4. Fr. Justus Mainga - Assistant Priest at  Kajiado
5. Fr. Geofrey Muhuri - Assistant Priest at Kiserian
6. Fr. Thomas Chepkwony - Assistant Priest at Matasia
7. Fr. Edward Tajeu -Fr .in charge at Ololulunga

FR.PAUL NAIKISI

Fr.Paul Naikisi arrived for his vacation in the begining of July. He says that he is enjoying his studies in the U.K. He will be be completing  his degree course in December 2010.

Welcome Father!

SR.  ELIZA FERNANDES

Sr. Eliza the Assistant Diocesan Education Secretary had gone for her holidays in India. She looks rejuvenated and ready to continue with her work.

Karibu sana Sister!

Fr. Karl Oberprantacher:  Has gone for his well derserved home leave overseas.  He left on 14th June and he will be with us on 18th August 2010

Fr. Eddy Karhof: He has also gone for a one-month leave. He left on 1st July and comes back on 31st July 2010.

To both Fathers, enjoy your well deserved holidays!

GREETINGS FROM AMERICA! FR.JOHN ORENGE

Fr. Orenge sends his salaams to all . He is about to complete his stay in the Diocese of Rochester. He will be doing three appeals for the Diocese in August and he is also expected back in September 2010.

His Eminence John Cardinal Njue has sent out banns with intention of ordaining the following candidates to the Order of Diaconate:

1. Chridas Mogaka Moseti - Ololulunga
2. Edward Mashua Kamau - Rombo
3. Gabriel Matata Makali            - Nonkopir
4. Gilbert Kangiri Sepaiyan - Rombo
5. Samuel Kipyegon Serem - Mulot

The ordination is scheduled for Friday 3^rd September 2010 at  Our lady of Fatima Church, Ongata Rongai starting at 10.00 a.m.

On vocations, we are all kindly requested to pray for vocations in the Diocese.  At the moment we have the following number of Seminarins:-

2----At St.Marys Molo- Spititual Year

5----At St Augustines , Mabanga -Philosophy

3----At St.Mathias Mulumba - Theology

4----At St.Thomas Aquinas - Theology

1----At Apostles of Jesus - Theology

2----In Pastoral Year

Narok Parish celebrated its Golden Jubilee on the 4^th July 2010. His Eminence John Cardinal Njue, together with Bishop Emeritus Colin Davies and a number of priests concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration. The Parish compound was full to capacity. There was a lot of joy during  the  Mass. About 100 candidates received the sacrament of confirmation. His Eminence had this to say...

It is time to celebrate and be happy for what God has done to us. Fr. V. Pinxteren started the fire of faith when he was sent to Narok in June 1960 and since that time we can look back and see how God can work wonders. As Apostolic Administrator I cannot hesitate to use the words of St. Paul which says “I never stop thanking God for all the graces you have received through Jesus Christ. I thank him that you have been enriched in so many ways, especially in your teachers and preachers; the witness to Christ has indeed been strong among you so that you will not be without any gifts of the spirit while you are waiting for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed; and he will keep you steady and without blame until last day, of our Lord Jesus Christ, because God by calling you has joined you to his Son, Jesus Christ; and God is faithful” {1 Cor1 1:3-9} .

I am happy I am coming to your Parish for the first time during this great jubilee and I feel blessed as I bring my blessing to you as a parish. I encourage you to be strong in faith by working hard to learn the word of God and the teaching of the Church. Support your  parish and the diocese. Be united with your Priests and encourage them as they serve you and I am sure by working together the parish will continue to grow even more. I would like to thank Bishop Emeritus Colin Davies and Cornelius Schilder for their dedication to the Diocese of Ngong. It is through their good work and support that we are able to celebrate today’s jubilee.

Finally at this time we are preparing for a new constitution in our country I encourage you to choose a constitution that protects the sanctity of human life and values the family as a basic unit of the society. Let us not choose a constitution that goes against the will of God and what the Church teaches.

I wish you blessings as you celebrate this day. Let it be a moment of renewal for all of us.

God bless you all.

John Cardinal Njue

Apostolic Administrator

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Fr. V. Pinxteren was the first resident Priest at Narok, he arrived there in June 1960. Since that time Narok as a Parish has grown very fast with other Parishes, coming out of Narok, like Oloikirikirai, Lemek, N/Enkare, Enosupukia, Ololunga, Mulot, Entasekera and Narosura. It is hoped that another parish will be established to cater for the Narok university and its surroundings.

Many thanks to all the Priests who have worked in this parish, the past and the present. In a special way we pray for those who have gone before us.

BRAVO NAROK PARISH!

HOLY SPIRIT SISTERS

The Holy Spirit Sisters left Narok Parish in May 2010. They have been there for  twenty two years. They have done alot to the Christians of Narok. His Eminence the Cardinal , the Clergy, Religious and the faithful are grateful to the Sisters for their dedication and hard work.

We shall continue to pray for the Sisters.

Kwa heri ya kuonana

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His Eminence Cardinal John Njue offcially opened and Consecrated the Church of Our Lady of Fatima  at Ongata Rongai on the 9th May 2010. Bishop, Emeritus Colin Davies also graced the occassion. The 1200 capacity costed over 28,000,000, with 98% collected through fund raising.

In his homily the Cardinal emphasized the need of self governance, self propagating and self reliance in building up the Church today. He thanked many Missionaries who came to Kenya to bring the Good news.

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MR. GEOFREY KARIUKI

After serving the Diocese as the Diocesan Development Co-odinator, for a long time Mr.Kariuki left the Diocese in the beginging of this year. He did great work in the Diocese and we are wishing him well.

MR. SIMEL SANKEI

Mr. Simel Sankei has been appointed as the new Diocesan Development Co-odinator. He is known to many as he has been very active in Narok and N/Enkare Parishes respectively.

Welcome Mr. Sankei!

SR. ELIZA FERNANDES- CARMELITE MISSIONARIES

Sr. Eliza joined the Secretariat in February 2010. She is the Assistant Diocesan Education Secretary.

Sr. Eliza had been working in Noonkopir Parish as the Religious Education Advisor (REA). The Diocese as well wishes to thank her for the work she did in Noonkopir.

Karibu sana Sr. Eliza to the Secretariat!

SR. SARA CLAUDIA

Sr. Sara has been appointed as the new Principal for St. Clare’s Girl’s Secondary school in Rombo, with effect from 1^st July 2010.

Sr. Sara, welcome to the Diocese!

RELIGIOUS IN THE DIOCESE

The short report must begin with a sincere expression of sympathy with the Sisters of the Catechism who suffered the sudden death of their Sister Helen Too. Sr. Hellen was a highly qualified nurse in the Mulot Dispensary. She was ill for only a few days. Her sudden death was a painful and severe blow to both her Congregation and the people of Mulot. She was buried behind the church and will be gratefully remembered for the great work she had been doing in the Mulot area.

Progress was made by communities of Sisters who came into the Diocese in recent years. The Sisters of the Congregation of Carmelite Religious (CCR) have begun building in Olkeri. Right opposite the dispensary, where one of the Sisters is already working, a school and a convent are under construction. The Diocese was present at both the groundbreaking ceremony and the laying of the first stone.

The Nirmala Sisters have begun moving into the Kitengela area. There was a groundbreaking ceremony some weeks ago for the construction of a building that will be both a home for poor and elderly women and the convent for the sisters. The convent was given the name Bethsaida. We wish the Sisters every success in their efforts to build their homes so that they can effectively begin and develop their spiritual and pastoral mission.

The Little Sisters of St. Joseph celebrated 1 Final Profession on 19^th March, having had 4 Temporary Professions in October last year, They opened a new house in the area at Kiserian Parish, called the community of St. Mary Magdalene. It will be the home for their students – sisters.

The Daughters of St. Joseph opened a Nursery School last January in their compound, where already many activities for youth and children take place on Sundays and during the school holidays.

The Evangelizing Sisters of Mary celebrated 12 Silver Jubilees and 8 final Professions on 6^th January and 8 1^st Professions on 19^th March. Congratulations and prayerful wishes to all members of the ESM Congregation.

There are further plans of sisters’ communities moving into our Diocese. However, those plans are still in their initial stages and as yet no definite steps have been taken. Ngong News will in subsequent issues keep all of you informed about the activities of the Religious in our Diocese.

We wish all of them every success in their much-valued work and thank them for their presense among us.

(By Fr. Eddie Karhof)

On the same note the Claretian Missionaries will open their Noviate at Kibiko on the 16th July 2010. His Eminence John Cardinal Njue  will be the main celebrant.

The Order of the Carmelites in Kenya will be celebrating the Feast of our Lady of Mt.Carmel on Friday 16th July 2010, at Nkoroi Monastery. During that occassion the kenyan Mission will be elevated to a General Delegation.

THE DIOCESAN LIASON COMMITTEE

The following are the members of the Diocesan Liason Committee.

1. Representing Men religious:- Frs. Eddie Karhof, Mhm and Reginald Nwachukwu, SMA.
2. Representing Women Religious:- Sister Veronica Wavinya, E.S.M, Sister Eunice Kemunto, LSSJ.
3. Representing the Diocesan Priests:-  Frs. John Kariuki and Ambrose Thuku.

The Association Sisterhood of Kenya, Ngong branch had a meeting after a long time on 12th June 2010 at the Watakatifu Wote Senta Ngong. It was attended by 8 Sisters. Fr. Eddie, the Vicar for Religious opened the meeting. The Sisters resolved to be more vibrant in the work of evangelization and promise to revive the Association in the Diocese. The following were elected as the leaders of the AOSK Ngong unit.

1. Sister Tressie D. Ccruz  CCR as the Chairperson
2. Sister Jane Wanjiru , ESM as the Vice Chair
3. Sister Shanta George- Daughters of Charity, as the Secretary
4. Sister Florida Tesot---MSC –Treasurer
5. Members are:- Sr.Jane Wainoi, Sr. Ann Lucia, Sr.Carla Bonga.

The next meeting was fixed for 11th September 2010 at the Watakatifu Wote Senta

CONGRATULATIONS TO AOSK  NGONG BRANCH!

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FR.  JOHN NTISEYIA V.G.

Fr. John  Ntiseyia left for USA on the16th June 2010 to do Mission appeals. The Diocese got 17 parishes this year in Baltimore, Texas, Rochester, La Crosse, Omaha, and Chicago. Fr. John is doing well so far. He was excited to be in Washington D.C!  He is expected back in the Diocese on 3rd September 2010.

Wish you well Fr. John!

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FR. JACK  DILLON

Fr. Jack Dillon has left the Diocese for GOOD! The story of Fr. Jack is very facinating. He was ordained in June 1972 for the Diocese of Southwark in London. He worked for 14 years in inner city parishes. At the request of the Emeritus Bishop Colin Davies he came to work in the Diocese of Ngong for a period of 5 years.  He arrived in June 1994 and was appointed to Olooikirikirai. 5 years became 8 years! He worked like a buffallo in Olooikirikirai, where he opened and built many churches. He came back to Ngong again after 8 years. Even when he went back his mind was always in Ngong Diocese. A certain fund called St. Martha was opened with some money from his friends which was used to buy kitchen items for poor parishes like cookers, fridges, etc.

He came back in 2001 and was appointed to Ololulunga where he has been for the last nine years.

On the 27th July 2010 His Eminence the Cardinal was the main celebrant at Fr. Jack’s farewell Mass at Olululuga. He praised Fr. Jack for his good work at Olullulnga Parish also as the Chairman of Olchekut Supat school. Bishop Davies too had very kind words to say about him as well as many diocesan priests who attended. The Christians of Ololulunga were also greatful for his good work. They said that they had been nourished spiritually and together they have been able to make the parish what it is today.

These are Fr .Jack’s parting words:

"Let's get the bad out of the way", the total unnecessary suffering surrounding elec­tions especially in 1992 and 2007. These like the sacrament of baptism have left an indelible mark on my soul. Also the multiplication of " Christian churches" which has made a nonsense to the gospel of Jesus Christ whose dying prayer was that "all should be one" " Father may they be one in you as you are in me and I in you so that the world may know that you sent me and that I have loved them as much as you loved me and the world may know that it's you who sent me." The good is the beauty, power and the potential of the people when they work together for good of others. Since I arrived in Ololulung'a I have been at home because of your welcome. Asanteni sana. People say "'Ukirudi nyumbani 'usisahau sisi." Let it be known that," Ololulung'a ni nyumbani, sina hata kuku ulaya." These and million memories of love and support will be with me milele. Those who are real know what we mean to each other. Keep the memories alive. " Fanyeni hivi kwa kunikumbukai mimi."  Asanteni na kwa herini!

Fr. Jack has been an inspiration to many people. He has been to many priests a good example, prayerful person, a hard working priest, welcoming, generous in many ways, joyful and always ready to listen and defend the poor and the oppressed.

Fr. Jack,  we shall miss you but you never know what will happen after 5 years or 8 years! East or west home is best and Ngong is home!

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TEN YEARS SINCE FR. JOHN KAISER’S DEATH

On 24th August 2000, the body of the late Fr. John Kaiser was found dumped at Naivasha. It is going to be 10 years since that time on the same date this year, and the mystery of his death has never been found. The case was taken over by the Attorney General and nothing seems to come out of it! When shall we know the truth?

There will be a commemoration mass for the late Father at Lolgorian Church on the 29th August 2010. The Mass will start at 10 a.m.

Meanwhile, preparations are on for a national celebration of the 10th anniversary of Fr. Kaiser on 19th August 2010.  It is expected that the late Fr. Kaiser’s relatives will be present for the commemoration.

2010 Y.C.S WALK REPORT

The walk kicked off at 8:30am, with a brief speech and blessings from the Vicar General Rev. Fr. Francis Mwangi who flagged off the walk.  This walk brought together 550 students from 10 secondary schools, 25 teachers and one Priest.

The theme of the walk was from 2010 world youth theme message “GOOD TEACHER, WHAT MUST I DO TO INHERIT THE ETERNAL LIFE MK 10:17“. This guided them throughout the day. We walked from Bishop mazzoldi secondary school Ongata Rongai to Enoomatasian girls secondary school Matasia. We had two water points where walkers were given water and glucose at (Nkoroi catholic mission and Kiserian shopping centre).After a successful walk; we had our late lunch and culminated with final prayers and blessings from the Diocesan youth Chaplain. Our entire walk covered 22kms; we thank God because we did not experience any bad incidence.

The current strategic plan for CDON 2006 – 2010 comes to an end this year.  To achieve the desired results and mitigation efforts, CDON brought together heads of programmes, the Clergy, Management representatives and the Laity professionals within its development board and pastoral council to review the ending strategic plan and chart a way forward.    The 2nd workshop took place from 7^th – 11^th June 2010.  The workshop was to develop an integrated diocesan strategic plan running from 2011 to 2015. The process of strategic plan is expected to end by August 2010.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS 2010

1. The Major Seminarians will have their annual get together as from Monday 2nd to 6th August at the Watakatifu wote Senta.
2. Diocesan Pastoral Council will take place from 24th – 28th August 2010. Details will be sent out to Parishes from the Pastroral office.
3. Deanery meeting: 16^th September

Deans Meeting:22^nd September (Secretariat)

Diocesan Priests Meeting: 27^th September

Presbyteral Council: 28^th September

Diocesan Retreat: 22nd – 26th November at the Resurrection Garden

OLCHEKUT SUPAT APOSTOLIC SCHOOL - A HOME

When Fr. Ng'eno requested the outgoing Rector of OSAS to read the Gospel of the day

John 16:29-33 during the mass on May 17^th 2010, little did he know that was an address of Jesus expressing his departure living the disciples scattered but exhorting them to be courageous. He stammered a bit allowing those words to sink into the audience ears and hearts.

This was a great day, marking an end of the five years' term of service for Fr. Nkalami Joseph as the Rector of OSAS and ushering in a new team of Fr. Anthony Ndung'u (Rector) and Fr. Paul Ng'eno (Vice Rector). The solemnity was graced by His Eminence John Cardinal Njue, Fr. Jack Dillon, Dean and chairman of the B.O.G., some parishioners and the community of OSAS.

It all started with Mass, animated by songs and dances by the school choir, good reading and the beautiful homily by the Cardinal. He stressed much on the love of service through obedience to the will of God and trying the best in all circumstances.

After the mass, followed entertainment with great admiration on the creativity of the scouts and the choir's special and artistic composition dedicated to the Cardinal's visit. Various gifts were presented to the Cardinal, Fr. Jack and Fr. Nkalami.

Like any good occasion, speeches were a recipe of the day. Mr. Kahenya gave a moving speech expressing his admiration on the good work in the school and praised the Cardinal's support since he became the Apostolic Administrator of Ngong Diocese and urged him to continue with the same spirit.

The outgoing Rector, recalled with great passion his very first day in OSAS as the Rector. The abundant support he got from Mr. Kahenya and the entire staff in moments of strife and duress as clear testimony of their love to the institution which they hold dear even today. His desire and dream was to make the school a home built in its motto of prayer and hard work with a vision of having responsible leaders for the church and the country. This has been achieved as witnessed in the spirit in the school. He also commented on the good discipline and assured the incoming Rector not to worry, due to this tradition enhanced by the students.

Finally he encouraged the students to love the school, own it and support the new team for through peace there is development.

Fr. Anthony, the new Rector, expressed his happiness in taking over and journeying with the students to levels of growth. He thanked the Cardinal for his support and assured the school community of his love and dedication to work.

The chairman of B.O.G. expressed his love for the school and of course the students as being priority in everything good done for the school. He was very certain of the fact that all the development in this short time was achieved because of the presence of peace in the school and prayed that the same spirit may prevail. He also asserted that the glory of the school is in the hands of the students and it is only them who can build or destroy it. The Cardinal's speech was short as usual. Being his third visit to the school manifest his special love for the institution. He commented on   the good work with glowing attributes to Frs. Joseph Nkalami and Dominic Waweru, the entire staff and the students’ body. He appealed for co-operation and real dedication to work.

He noted that, it was his wish to make the necessary changes to which every priest is bound to accept with humility through obedience, a virtue that strengthens ones' love to serve the people of God. He was grateful for the gifts given to him. He finally challenged the students in maintaining the discipline and urged them to seek dialogue in every dispute and avoid any violent behaviour that contradict their dignity and integrity.

Since lunch was ready as planned, the Cardinal had an opportunity to share a meal with the school community. This was a real home set-up where the high table was alien and every body is treated equally. By 4.30. p.m., the Cardinal so attested was in Nairobi for another official duty.

GOD BLESS OSAS AND OUR DIOCESE!

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FROM OLTEPESI CULTURE INSTITUE

The INKISOMAT OO POOKI MAMPILI of Year A, B, and C in three separate Booklets are now on sale in the Watakatifu Wote Senta Bookshop.

Cost per book is Shs. 150/-

In Oltepesi we shall also have a smaller number of these books for sale.

Wootu pooki?

Fr. Karl Oberprantacher

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PRAYER FOR A GOOD CONSTITUTION

“Choose Life”

God our Father, In your infinite wisdom, you established that all people be guided by your law.

You designed that your Son should be conceived in the womb of the Virgin Mary, be born among us and live with us as Emmanuel, full of grace and truth.

In this way you exalted the value of our human life and the gift of motherhood.

Grant, we earnestly pray, that all Kenyans may desire and choose a Constitution  that upholds the sacredness of life, gives value to human motherhood and provides for true justice and peace.

Give us the courage to act according to your divine will, and reject anything that is contrary to this will.

We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord, Amen.

V/         Mary, Mother of infant Jesus,

R/        Protect all the unborn children.