ST. AUSTIN’S PARISH MSONGARI CELEBRATES 125 YEARS OF FAITH AND EVANGELIZATION
St. Austin’s Parish, Msongari, have today celebrated 125 years as a parish. Established in 1899 by the first Catholic missionaries to Kenya, the parish became a spiritual home for many and a cornerstone of evangelization in the country. The missionaries from the Congregation of the Holy Ghost (Spiritans), worked tirelessly to lay the foundations of the parish and nurture the Catholic faith among the local community.
The highlight of the Eucharistic Family Day celebration, presided over by Archbishop Philip Anyolo and concelebrated by Bishop John Mbinda of Lodwar Diocese. The Eucharistic celebration was a moment of deep reflection and thanksgiving, as clergy, parishioners, and well-wishers gathered to honor the parish’s remarkable journey. Archbishop Anyolo praised the parish’s rich history and its significant role in spreading the Gospel in Kenya. “This is not just a celebration of years but of lives transformed through faith and commitment to Christ,” he said.
During the homily, Bishop Mbinda highlighted the dedication and sacrifices of the early missionaries, who braved numerous challenges to establish the parish. He reminded the congregation of their responsibility to continue the legacy of these pioneers, calling on all to embrace the mission of evangelization in their families and communities. “The missionaries’ hard work laid the groundwork for what we celebrate today. Let us honor their legacy by living lives of faith and service,” he urged.
The celebrations featured cultural performances, testimonies from long-standing parish members, and a display of artifacts showcasing the parish’s history. The event brought together generations of parishioners, reflecting on the growth of the Catholic faith in Kenya. As St. Austin’s Parish looks to the future, the message was clear: the journey of faith continues, and the legacy of the missionaries remains a guiding light for the next generations.
