On Saturday, 21st March 2026, over 200 members of the Western Region Friends of Mill Hill (FOMH) gathered at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Dahiro, in Bungoma Diocese, for a vibrant and faith-filled celebration marking the Solemnity of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary and Patron of the Universal Church. The occasion brought together friends, collaborators, and missionaries in a spirit of thanksgiving, remembrance, and renewed missionary commitment.
The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Francis Nelson Mandela, warmly welcomed all participants to the parish and expressed his deep appreciation for the dedicated pastoral and missionary work of the Mill Hill Missionaries in Bungoma Diocese. His words set a tone of gratitude and unity that characterized the entire day.
The gathering began with the blessing of a memorial stone in honour of the late Rev. Fr. Martin Rijk, MHM, the founding missionary of Dahiro Parish. This solemn moment offered an opportunity to remember and celebrate his life of service, whose legacy continues to inspire the local Christian community. The Eucharistic celebration that followed was the spiritual highlight of the day. Rev. Fr. Kevin Barasa, National Director of FOMH–Kenya, welcomed the faithful and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering support of the Friends of Mill Hill in promoting mission awareness and sustaining missionary activities.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Hillary Awiti, Regional Representative, reflected on the life and virtues of St. Joseph, inviting the faithful to emulate his humility, obedience, and unwavering trust in God. He reminded all present that, like St. Joseph, they are called to listen attentively to God’s voice and courageously fulfill His will in their daily lives.
Immediately after the Eucharistic celebration, the gathering marked the occasion with a symbolic tree planting, underscoring the shared commitment to care for creation and nurture the growth of faith for future generations.
Participants then assembled outside the church for a brief program of speeches and presentations. The Basic Formation Centre (BFC), Luanda community students enriched the occasion with a beautiful song in honour of St. Joseph, inspiring all present to continue the work of evangelization with renewed zeal and dedication.
In a generous gesture of solidarity, the Friends of Mill Hill presented gifts in kind to the BFC, Luanda Community. The gifts were received by Rev. Fr. Richard Anguyo, Rector of the BFC, who expressed sincere gratitude for the continued support and generosity of the FOMH.
In his closing remarks, Rev. Fr. Kevin Barasa extended appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the event, particularly the organizing team led by Madam Rosemary and Dr. Wasike, the FOMH Regional leaders, whose dedication ensured a well-coordinated and meaningful gathering.
The day stood as a powerful testimony to the enduring spirit of collaboration in mission. As the Friends of Mill Hill continue to walk alongside missionaries in faith and service, we entrust their efforts to God’s abundant blessings.
May St. Joseph, our Patron, intercede for us all. AMEN.
Long live St. Joseph’s Missionary Society Mill Hill …
