The Diocese of Eldoret, along with members of the broader Christian community in Kenya, has formally appealed to the Vatican to consider the late Fr. Alois Cheruiyot Bett for recognition as a martyr of the Catholic Church, following his tragic killing in Tot, Kerio Valley.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and delivered through the Most Reverend Dominic Kimengich, Bishop of Eldoret, the faithful expressed their deep sorrow and admiration for Fr. Bett, who was gunned down while administering Mass and preaching peace in a region long plagued by conflict.
“Fr. Bett served with unwavering dedication to the Gospel and was known for his commitment to nonviolence, reconciliation, and the dignity of all people,” the letter reads. “In doing so, he offered his life in service to Christ and His message of peace.”
The request calls for the Church to open an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Fr. Bett’s death and assess his life in view of potential recognition as a martyr—a person who dies in witness to the faith and values of the Kingdom of God.
Quoting Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God,” the letter paints Fr. Bett as a courageous shepherd who chose to remain in danger for the sake of his flock, working tirelessly to heal wounds in a violence-stricken region.
Fr. Bett’s death has sparked national mourning and renewed discussions about insecurity in the Kerio Valley. Yet amid the grief, his legacy has ignited a spiritual call to action.
“He continues to inspire many, especially the youth and clergy of our region, to stand firm in faith, justice, and peace amidst adversity,” the letter continues.
If recognized, Fr. Bett could become one of the first Kenyan priests formally acknowledged as a martyr of the Church, a move that would carry deep spiritual and cultural significance for the region and the nation at large.
The Diocese of Eldoret awaits a response from the Holy See with hope and prayer, trusting in the Church’s discernment and commitment to honoring lives lived in extraordinary faith.
Would you like this published in a specific religious journal or translated into Kiswahili or Latin for ecclesiastical use?
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