New Inter-Institutional Chaplaincy Launched in Eldoret to Strengthen Youth Spiritual Formation

 

 By Wasike Elvis

A landmark initiative aimed at fostering spiritual growth and unity among students in Eldoret has been unveiled following the official inauguration of St. Leo  the Great Chaplaincy, a multi-institutional Catholic chaplaincy serving higher learning institutions across the town.

The inauguration ceremony, held at Eldoret National Polytechnic, was presided over by  the Eldoret Diocese Catholic Bishop Dominic Kimengich, who led a Holy Mass before officially commissioning the chaplaincy. The new initiative brings together students and staff from a wide network of institutions, including Eldoret National Polytechnic, Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI), Moi University School of Medicine, Mount Kenya University, and the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), among others.

Speaking during the event, the Chief Principal of Eldoret National Polytechnic, Dr. Charles Koech, expressed pride in hosting what he described as a transformative program for young people in the region.

“We are honored to host this important initiative that goes beyond academic excellence. As institutions of higher learning, we are not only tasked with equipping students intellectually, but also morally and spiritually. This chaplaincy will play a critical role in shaping responsible, ethical, and well-rounded individuals,” Dr. Koech said.

 

He further emphasized the need for strong mentorship structures within institutions, noting that today’s youth face numerous challenges that require both academic guidance and spiritual support.

In his address, Bishop Kimengich described the chaplaincy as a unique and pioneering model within Kenya, noting that it consolidates nearly 15 institutions under a single pastoral framework.

“This is a very special moment, not just for Eldoret, but for the Church in Kenya. We have created a chaplaincy that brings together many institutions so that we can effectively journey with young people, nurture them in faith, and accompany them through the realities of life,” he said.

He added that the Catholic Church remains committed to providing holistic formation through regular Mass, counseling, mentorship, and other pastoral programs tailored to the needs of students.

According to the bishop, the chaplaincy will serve as a safe and supportive environment where students can seek guidance, build values, and strengthen their faith as they pursue their academic goals.

The event also drew participation from representatives of various institutions and student leaders who welcomed the initiative as timely and impactful.

 

Geoffrey Odhiambo, the newly appointed chairperson of St. Leo  the Great Chaplaincy, expressed gratitude to the Church leadership and institutional administrations for their support.

“This chaplaincy brings us together as students from different institutions under one spiritual family. It will help us grow in faith, build unity, and support each other as we navigate academic and personal challenges,” he said.

He noted that the chaplaincy includes members from institutions such as Eldoret National Polytechnic, St. Augustine, St. Raphael (College of Health Sciences), Moi University, St. Patrick’s, RVTTI, Mount Kenya University, and KMTC Eldoret campus.

Beyond the inauguration, Bishop Kimengich took the opportunity to address broader national concerns, particularly the rising cases of political intolerance and violence as the country moves closer to an election period.

He warned that the increasing trend of political hostility, intimidation, and violence poses a serious threat to national unity and democratic principles.

“It is very worrying to see what is happening in our country. Violence, use of goons, and suppression of opposing views go against everything we stand for as a society. Every Kenyan has a right to speak, to organize, and to participate in the democratic process,” he said.

The bishop called on government authorities to take decisive action in restoring order and ensuring that all citizens can exercise their rights freely and safely.

He also urged political leaders and their supporters to embrace tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful engagement, stressing that leadership should be determined through free and fair choice rather than coercion or violence.

“Politics is not everything. Life is greater than politics. We must not treat political competition as a matter of life and death. Our people have the power of the vote, and that is the tool they should use to elect leaders of their choice,” he added.

 

Bishop Kimengich further cautioned against electoral malpractice, including bribery and voter manipulation, emphasizing the importance of credibility in both the electoral process and leadership outcomes.

“When elections are conducted freely and fairly, we build trust in our systems and in our leaders. That is the foundation of a stable and prosperous nation,” he said.

The launch of St. Leo Chaplaincy marks a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between educational institutions and faith-based organizations in Eldoret. It highlights the growing recognition of the role of spiritual development in complementing academic achievement.

As the chaplaincy begins its operations, stakeholders expressed optimism that it will not only nurture faith among students but also contribute to building a generation of principled, resilient, and socially responsible leaders.

The initiative is expected to serve as a model for other regions in Kenya seeking to integrate spiritual care within the academic environment while fostering unity across institutions.