The Orthodox Church in Kenya witnessed a moment of profound joy and spiritual significance as His Beatitude, our beloved Father and Patriarch, chose Nairobi as the venue for his Name Day celebration. This decision, a testament to the deep love and connection he shares with the faithful in Kenya, was met with immense gratitude and heartfelt reverence.

The gathering was not merely a celebration but a reaffirmation of unity, faith, and the enduring mission of the Orthodox Church in Africa. Clergy, faithful, and dignitaries from across the region assembled to honor His Beatitude, their hearts full of joy for the opportunity to host their spiritual father in their homeland.

A Shepherd’s Call to Reconciliation

In his pastoral wisdom, the Patriarch extended a call of love and reconciliation, reminding those who had strayed that the Church remains their home, ever open to their return. His words, spoken with fatherly care, ignited a renewed sense of belonging among the faithful. Many who had drifted away were reminded of the Church’s unwavering embrace, a place of spiritual refuge and renewal.

A Historic Elevation

The significance of this Name Day celebration was further magnified by a historic declaration—the elevation of the Archdiocese of Nairobi as the second capital of the Patriarchate after Alexandria. This milestone affirms the growing prominence of the Orthodox Church in Africa, placing Kenya at the heart of missionary efforts, theological education, and ecclesiastical administration.

Moreover, in a moment of profound honor and recognition, His Beatitude announced the elevation of His Eminence, Archbishop Makarios to the esteemed position of Exarch of Kenya and East Africa. This appointment is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Church, his tireless missionary work, and his role as a shepherd to thousands of faithful across the region.

A Prayer for Many Years

As the celebration drew to a close and the Patriarch prepared to depart, the faithful

joined in a solemn prayer, asking the Lord to grant him many years of health, strength, and wisdom to continue guiding Christ’s flock. Their voices rang out in unison, echoing the deep love and respect they hold for their spiritual father:

Εἰς πολλὰ ἔτη, Δέσποτα!

With hearts lifted in gratitude and renewed commitment, the Orthodox faithful of Kenya bid farewell to their Patriarch, knowing that his visit had left an indelible mark on the history of their Church. The celebrations may have ended, but the spirit of unity, faith, and mission kindled during his presence will continue to illuminate the path of Orthodox Christianity in Africa for generations to come.