Bishop Kadima calls for humility, patience, and Christ-centered ministry as he addresses seminarians at Bungoma seminary graduation.
Newsroom (01/05/2026 Gaudium Press ) At the 48th Graduation Ceremony of St. Augustine Senior Seminary Mabanga, the Bishop of Kenya’s Catholic Diocese of Bungoma, Mark Kadima Wamukoya, delivered a strong call for humility and spiritual focus among seminarians preparing for priesthood.
In his homily on Thursday, April 30, Bishop Kadima emphasized that humility remains a defining mark of priestly life, warning against pride and self-importance. He urged the graduates to anchor their ministry firmly in Christ, rather than personal status or influence.
“Avoid pride, arrogance, and the attitude of thinking you are more important than others. Preach Christ. Let Christ be the center and the most important focus,” he said.
The Bishop further reminded seminarians that their calling is not about personal elevation. “Preach Christ and be humble. Whatever little you have been given should not be a point of looking down upon others. You are not Christ,” he added.
Warning Against Political Distraction
Bishop Kadima also cautioned future priests against allowing their ministry to drift into political commentary, stressing that their primary mission is spiritual.
“When you become a priest, do not turn your mission into speaking only about politics. Preach Christ, that is your calling,” he said, urging them to ensure that their lives visibly reflect the presence of Jesus.
Trust in God’s Timing
A central theme of the Bishop’s message was patience and trust in divine timing. He encouraged seminarians not to be discouraged by delays or challenges, describing them as part of God’s preparation.
“Jesus Christ does not come late. All along, God has been preparing. God is always leading us, and His time is the best,” he said.
He reassured the graduates that setbacks should not lead to frustration, emphasizing that God’s plans unfold at the right moment. “It is never late for God to bless you… Don’t try to make shortcuts… Let God fulfill for you what He has planned.”
Living as “People of the Promise”
Bishop Kadima underscored the importance of faithfulness to one’s vocation, describing priesthood as a life rooted in fulfilling promises.
“God is always faithful to the promises. We cannot live our lives as priests without God’s promises. We are people of the promise,” he said.
He added that commitment and integrity are essential, urging seminarians to live out the vows they make. “There’s no life without a promise… you must also fulfill. Let us be people of the promise.”
Call for Integrity and Brotherhood
The Bishop also warned against betrayal among clergy, calling for honesty and faithfulness within the Church community. His message highlighted the importance of unity and trust among priests serving in his Episcopal see.
Concluding his address, Bishop Kadima congratulated the graduates on reaching a significant milestone in their formation. “I congratulate you on this achievement,” he said, while encouraging them to carry forward their vocation with humility, patience, and unwavering faith.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from ACi Africa
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