On Saturday, May 30, 2026, Patriarch Theodoros II of Alexandria and All Africa visited the Holy Diocese of Kisumu and Western Kenya at the diocesan headquarters.
The Patriarch was welcomed by the clergy and faithful of the Diocese with traditional songs, dances, and hymns, expressing their respect and affection for the head of the Patriarchate of Alexandria.
Following the official Doxology, Patriarch Theodoros formally installed Bishop Philippos of Kisumu and Western Kenya on the episcopal throne of the Diocese. He wished him God’s blessing and strength in his episcopal ministry, praying that he be guided by wisdom and discernment in his service to the Church.
Patriarch Theodoros spoke about the special significance of Kisumu and paid tribute to the early missionaries who helped establish the Orthodox Church in the region. He also referred to the late Archbishop Anastasios of Albania for his contribution to the local Church, and to Archbishop Makarios of Kenya for his longstanding support of Orthodox missionary work in East Africa.
The Patriarch then served a memorial service at the grave of the first Bishop of Kisumu, the late Athanasios (†2019), honoring his service to the Diocese.
He later met with the clergy of the Diocese, thanking them for their ministry and encouraging them in their pastoral work.
The Patriarch subsequently visited Nandi County, where he met Member of Parliament Marianne Kitany of Aldai Constituency. In recognition of her support for Orthodox missionary work in the region and her contribution to local communities, particularly schools and youth initiatives, he awarded her the Golden Lion of the Order of the Lion of Alexandria.
The Patriarch stressed that service to others is one of the highest forms of social ministry and thanked Kitany for her support of children, families, and schools in the region. He noted that every child who gains access to education and every school that opens its doors represents an important step forward for the local community.
The fifth day of Patriarch Theodoros II’s pastoral visit to Kenya once again highlighted the ongoing work of the Orthodox mission in Africa. Through churches, schools, community centers, and charitable initiatives, the Patriarchate of Alexandria continues to support local communities and respond to their spiritual and social needs.
Patriarch Theodoros emphasized that the Church’s mission extends to all people, regardless of background, and that the Orthodox presence in Africa continues to contribute to the development and well-being of local communities.
During his visit, the Patriarch also offered prayers for peace throughout the world, for unity among peoples, and for all those facing hardship.
