President Ruto Installs Bishop Gachihi
It brought together chiefs of the military, clergy, and the public in celebration of spiritual leadership that the new bishop will offer to the armed forces.
President William Ruto at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata, Nairobi County, for the Episcopal installation of Rt Rev. Wallace Ng’ang’a Gachihi, the Bishop Military Ordinariate of Kenya. Photo/William Ruto.
By Robert Mutasi
During an emotional ceremony at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata, the President exhorted the gathering on the spirit of service and sacrifice as he witnessed the Episcopal installation of Rt. Rev. Wallace Ng’ang’a Gachihi as the new Bishop of the Military Ordinariate of Kenya.
It brought together chiefs of the military, clergy, and the public in celebration of spiritual leadership that the new bishop will offer to the armed forces.
Citing Mark 10:45, President Ruto added to the bishop’s mission and mandate: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”.
It struck a very strong chord in the context of the military’s role in maintaining peace and stability within and outside Kenya’s borders.
The President explained that leadership entails service and selfless dedication to the interest of others, particularly for the defense of the motherland.
Ruto said in his speech, “I want to congratulate Bishop Gachihi for the enormous responsibility he has taken up to address spiritual needs among military personnel.
“As you take on this monumental task, remember that your role is not just about leadership; it’s about nurturing the hearts and minds of our soldiers,” Ruto urged Gachihi to make the welfare and morale of the troops his priority.
Among those present at the installation ceremony were senior military officers led by the Chief of Defence Forces General Robert Kibochi, who commended the church for its critical role in instilling a sense of direction and bonding among military personnel.
He noted that spiritual guidance stands out as paramount, given the challenges faced by the military both at home and within peacekeeping missions abroad.
Bishop Gachihi, who was enthroned yesterday, thanked the government and the military leadership for their support and promised that he would work tirelessly to ensure that the spiritual needs of the armed forces are met.
He appreciated the sacrifice of the military personnel and that of their families, promising it would be captured in ensuring the spiritual matters are brought to the front burner in his ministry.
As Kenya continues to face various security challenges, the appointment of Bishop Gachihi signifies a renewed commitment to the spiritual and moral support of those who serve.
His leadership will be important in reinforcing the values of service, dedication, and sacrifice at the core of the military mission.
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