On Sunday, March 2, 2025, Catholics from Kandisi Parish, Ngong Diocese, gathered to celebrate the consecration and official opening of a new church and ablution block of Rankau Sub-Parish, respectively. The church was dedicated to St. John the Apostle and it is under the pastoral guidance of the Comboni Missionaries of Heart of Jesus. This momentous occasion was marked by a special Mass led by His Lordship Rt. Rev. John Oballa Owaa, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ngong. This Mass marked a new chapter of spiritual and communal growth for the local congregation.
A New Place of Worship
The newly constructed church stands as a beacon of faith and dedication, serving the Christian community of Rankau which is under Kandisi parish. The project (construction of the church and ablution block), was initiated by the Comboni Missionaries, and aims to provide a permanent place of worship for the growing Catholic community in the area.
According to Fr. Thomas. Ngwaro, the Parish Priest of Kandisi parish, the construction was made possible through the combined efforts of the missionaries, local parishioners, and well-wishers who generously contributed resources. “We thank God for being with us from the very first day we laid the foundation to this moment when we now have a church building. It is not by our efforts alone but by God’s grace,” said Fr. Thomas.
One of the church leaders appreciated the Comboni missionaries for being their good shepherds, recognizing their efforts and tremendous work in contributing to the growth of Kandisi Parish.
Sacred Consecration Ceremony
The consecration ceremony was a deeply spiritual event, following Catholic tradition. His Lordship Rt. Rev. John Oballa Owaa led the dedication rituals, which included blessing the altar, and the entire church building. The faithful in attendance participated in hymns, prayers, and readings, reinforcing the significance of the occasion.
In his homily, His Lordship Rt. Rev. John Oballa Owaa thanked the Comboni Missionaries for their remarkable pastoral work. He recalled how they began with a simple nursery school, St Mary’s Ongata Rongai, and have since built a beautiful church for the community of Rankau. The bishop acknowledged witnessing this growth and affirmed his support for their mission.
He emphasized the role of the church as a center for evangelization, community support, and spiritual growth. “This sacred space will be a place of refuge, prayer, and unity for all who seek God’s presence; let’s continue offering ourselves in serving God,” he said.
Enhancing Facilities with a New Ablution Block
Alongside the new church, the inauguration also marked the opening of a much-needed ablution block. This facility aims to improve sanitation and accessibility for worshippers, ensuring a more comfortable experience for all attendees. The block includes modern restrooms, provisions for people with disabilities, and a water supply system.
The project was funded by the Comboni missionaries through the support of Kandisi parishioners and other well-wishers, demonstrating the missionaries’ commitment to holistic community development.
Community Reactions and Future Plans
The event was met with joy and gratitude from parishioners. “We have prayed for this moment for years, and today, our prayers have been answered,” said Mr Dennis Oyula, the Parish moderator. The new facilities are expected to foster greater participation in church activities and strengthen missionary efforts in the region.
Rev. Fr. Andrew Wanjohi, Provincial Superior of the Comboni Missionaries in Kenya, reaffirmed the province’s commitment to supporting the community’s plans.
The community of Rankau plans to possibly establish healthcare facilities on the land where their old church lies.
As the congregation moves forward, the consecration of the church and opening of an ablution block marks a milestone in the faith journey of the people of Rankau. The structures are a testament to the power of faith, unity, and missionary commitment.
