Pope and Patriarch Theodore II continued his pastoral visit to Kenya on May 28, 2026, traveling from the drought-stricken region of Turkana to the city of Eldoret, where he received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from clergy and faithful.
A highlight of the third day of the Patriarchal tour was the laying of the foundation stone for the future Church of the Holy Apostles and the new Missionary Center in Eldoret. Addressing the gathered faithful, Patriarch Theodore urged them to love, support, and protect their Church, describing it as their spiritual refuge. He expressed particular joy that the new church would be dedicated to the Holy Apostles and invoked their blessings upon the people of the region.
The Patriarch also reflected on the missionary work of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, emphasizing that the Church of Saint Mark continues to bring the Gospel to the farthest corners of Africa “with love, sacrifice, and hope.” He praised the strong faith of the local communities, noting that “where there is love for Christ, hope is born and the future of Africa flourishes.”
Later in the day, Patriarch Theodore visited the Bishop Neo Kongai Secondary School in the Kitaor area, where he commended the educational and youth ministry efforts of the Metropolis of Eldoret and Northern Kenya. Stressing that education is one of the greatest gifts that can be offered to children, he encouraged students to value learning and remain grateful for the opportunities available to them.
Sharing experiences from his recent visit to Turkana, the Patriarch spoke about communities that still lack basic educational infrastructure and pledged that the Patriarchate, together with Metropolitan Neophytos, would work to establish schools in the impoverished region, offering hope and a brighter future for its children.
Patriarch Theodore concluded his visit by encouraging young people to love Christ, the Church, and their homeland, so that they may become people of faith, peace, and service for the Africa of tomorrow. He also praised Metropolitan Neophytos for his tireless pastoral and missionary ministry, particularly in the fields of education and social outreach.
