A Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Kenya

Sisters from the Kenya Province begin the procession to the Mass celebrating the 60th anniversary.

BY SISTER NANCY O’SHEA, SNDdeN

The sun shone brightly on Saturday, August 23, in Malava, Kenya, as the Diocese of Kakamega joined the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in celebrating 60 years of their presence and ministry in Kenya. The joyful gathering included Sisters, family members, colleagues, former students, Associates, parishioners and a lively local choir. Before Mass, groups planted trees, a fitting symbol of growth and gratitude, while others busied themselves with the °nal preparations that had begun the night before.

As the celebration opened, music filled the air—drums, dancing and singing resounding across the compound. Sister Everlyne Nekesa Oguba, SNDdeN, representing the Kenya Leadership Team, and Sisters Evalyne Aseyo and Amarachi Ezeonu, SNDdeN, representing the Congregational Leadership Team, warmly welcomed everyone. Spirits were high as the Papal Nuncio to Kenya, Archbishop Hubertus Matheus Maria van Megen, and Bishop Joseph Obanyi of Kakamega arrived. A particularly touching sight was a small child being carried in procession, holding the Lectionary—“A child will lead them,” came to mind.

Statue of St. Julie Billiart finds a new home at the Kenya Province.

The Nuncio’s homily left a lasting impression. Speaking effortlessly in English, Swahili, French and Dutch, he reflected on the legacy of St. Julie Billiart and the Sisters’ mission. Having grown up in the Netherlands ‘across the river’ from Namur, he was familiar with her story. Quoting Pope Francis, he said religious life is rooted in recognizing  “what really matters,” finding God’s presence not only in great moments but also in fragility and weakness. He continued, “Consecrated persons are signs of God in diverse environments of life… the leaven that carries the People of God forward.” He also shared Pope Leo’s words, urging all to keep alive a deep love for Christ, and conveyed the Pope’s gratitude for the Sisters’ enduring witness.

Special recognition was given to the many Sisters who have served in Kenya over the past 60 years—those present, those unable to attend and those who now rest with God. Their courage and generosity were met with heartfelt thanks.

Sisters Nancy O’Shea (second from left) and Anne Malone, SNDdeN (far right) join Kenya Province SNDdeN at the 60th anniversary celebration.

A memorable highlight was the presentation of a large statue of St. Julie to the Kenya Unit. The Ohio Unit sent it after a providential connection with the Sisters of Notre Dame of Coesfeld, who had one available from a school closing in Kentucky. St. Julie’s statue arrived just in time for the Diamond Jubilee.

After Mass, a grand feast brought the community together in gratitude and joy—a celebration of 60 years of faith, service and the radiant goodness of God.

This story is also featured in the Winter 2025 edition of our  Sowing Goodness magazine.