On May 12, 2025, the St. Alphonsus Community in Karen was a vibrant hub of fraternity and reflection as Redemptorist students in formation, drawn from the Orientation Year, Philosophy, Novitiate, and Theology programs, came together for a special gathering at Karen-Nairobi. Organized by the Mission Superior, Fr. Titus Mutiku, C.Ss.R., the event aimed to foster interaction, socialization, and unity among students across different stages of formation while offering them a moment of shared reflection on their missionary journey.
A highlight of the day was a virtual session with Fr. Joseph Ivel Mendanha, C.Ss.R., General Consultor of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer. Fr. Ivel offered a rich and insightful presentation on “The Core of Redemptorist Spirituality.” Drawing connections between the foundational elements of Redemptorist spirituality – the Crib, the Cross, the Altar, and Mary—he emphasized their relevance in today’s missionary context.
Fr. Ivel linked this spirituality with the recent message of Fr. Rogério Gomes, C.Ss.R., Superior General, who in his pastoral letter called all Redemptorists to embrace the spirit of synodality, missionary outreach, and fidelity to our charism. He also reflected on the inaugural speech of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, who echoed the themes of Evangelii Gaudium by calling the Church to be a joyful, outward-looking, and inclusive community, giving special attention to the poor and the marginalized.
During a lively Q&A session, students engaged Fr. Ivel with thoughtful questions. He encouraged them to deepen their identity as global missionaries, rooted in the Redemptorist tradition, yet open and ready to serve the poor and the most abandoned anywhere in the world.
The gathering continued with a Solemn Mass at the St. Alphonsus Community Chapel, presided over by Fr. Titus Mutiku, C.Ss.R. and concelebrated by confreres: Fr. Nicholas Kibaara, C.Ss.R. – Vocation Director, Fr. Francis Sila, C.Ss.R – Orientation Year Director, Fr. Dominic Warukenya, C.Ss.R. – Prefect of Students, Philosophate, Fr. Lewis Mutiso, C.Ss.R – Prefect of Students, Theologate. Their presence and participation were impactful, offering students both pastoral and personal inspiration.
The day concluded on a joyful note with a volleyball tournament, where teams competed in a spirit of brotherhood and fun. Winners were recognized, and all participants gathered for a common dinner, celebrating the richness of their multicultural community.
Currently, the formation program includes 52 students from Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Congo, and South Africa, reflecting the international character of the Redemptorist mission and the shared call to proclaim the Gospel ever anew.
Br. George Sifuna
