On October 12, 2024, a significant ceremony was held at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata, marking the installation of Rt. Rev. Wallace Ng’ang’a as the new Bishop of the Military Ordinariate of Kenya.
The event was attended by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the Catholic Church in Kenya, reflecting a collaboration between spiritual and military leadership.
The ceremony was graced by His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces. It marked a new chapter for the Military Ordinariate, which provides pastoral and spiritual guidance to KDF personnel, their families, and dependents.
The rites were led by Hubertus Van Megen, Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya and South Sudan. In his address, he emphasized the critical role that awaits Bishop Wallace in providing spiritual nourishment and guidance to the military while upholding the values of peace, security, and justice. This message was echoed by Bishop Philip Anyolo of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Nairobi.
In his acceptance remarks, Bishop Wallace expressed gratitude to the Holy Father for his appointment and shared his vision for his new role. He highlighted the importance of fostering unity, compassion, and ethical leadership within the Defence Forces, noting that the Church’s mission within the military extends beyond spiritual guidance to a holistic development.
The Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, welcomed Bishop Wallace to the military community, emphasizing his unique role. General Kahariri pointed out that the bishop would not only serve as a shepherd of souls but would also collaborate closely with the KDF in promoting ethical leadership, discipline, and moral guidance.
“This is a great milestone in KDF’s spiritual journey, where the chaplaincy provides spiritual nourishment and guidance to soldiers deployed both within our borders and beyond,” he added.
While addressing the congregation, H.E. President William Ruto, highlighted the enduring relationship between the Church and KDF, underscoring the role of faith in strengthening moral values. He emphasized the importance of spiritual leadership within the military, which offers guidance, support, and solace to service members and their families.
“As we modernize equipment, facilities, and capabilities, faith-based structures are also critical in providing hope, support, and spiritual leadership to soldiers, their families, and dependents as they navigate the challenges of military life,” he stated.
The installation Mass was celebrated with military honors and traditional rites of the Catholic Church. The bishop officially took possession of the ordinariate with the proclamation of the Apostolic Letter and by taking his seat in the Cathedral.
The event was attended by senior government officials, Service Commanders, senior officers, officers, religious leaders, service members, families, and other invited guests.
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