The Catholic Church in Kenya is mourning the death of Bishop Emeritus Philip Sulumeti, the pioneering leader of the Kakamega Diocese and one of the country’s longest-serving clerics. He was 88.

His passing was confirmed by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), which said he died on Sunday night while receiving treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

“We join the Catholic Diocese of Kakamega and the entire Church in Kenya in mourning the passing on of Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Philip Sulumeti, who went to be with the Lord last night,” the KCCB said in a statement on Monday morning.

The bishops described him as a man of deep faith, humility, and devotion.

“We remember with gratitude his dedicated pastoral service, humility and commitment to the mission of Christ,” the statement continued.

A life of service

Bishop Sulumeti’s ministry stretched across nearly five decades, shaping the faith of generations in Western Kenya.

Born in 1937, he was ordained a priest in 1968 and went on to serve as auxiliary bishop in Kisumu before being appointed by Pope Paul VI as the first Bishop of Kakamega in 1978. He held the position until his retirement in December 2014.

Under his leadership, the Kakamega Diocese grew into one of the most vibrant in the country — building parishes, schools, and health centres that still serve thousands today.

“He was not only a bishop but a teacher and father to many,” said a parish priest from Kakamega, speaking outside the cathedral where mourners gathered for morning prayers. “He taught us to serve with humility and to care for the poor.”

Tributes and remembrance

Bishop Joseph Obanyi, his successor, paid tribute to the late cleric, describing him as a “pillar of the faith.”

“I request you to keep him in prayers, remembering him in the masses, as we begin making arrangements for his burial,” Bishop Obanyi said in a message to the faithful. “We express our condolences and pledge our prayerful accompaniment during these difficult moments.”

Catholic faithful from across the country took to social media to share memories of the bishop’s compassion and simplicity. Many recalled how he would travel deep into rural parishes, often on rough roads, to celebrate mass and visit the sick.

A shepherd’s legacy

Bishop Sulumeti’s influence went beyond the pulpit. He was known for his quiet advocacy on education, peace, and family life. Under his guidance, the diocese launched several faith-based initiatives that continue to serve marginalised communities.

He also played a role in the formation of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, contributing to national dialogue on moral leadership and governance.

“He lived the Gospel,” said Sister Jane Atieno, a member of the Sisters of Mary of Kakamega. “He believed that faith must be seen in how we treat one another — with love, patience and forgiveness.”

Looking ahead

Preparations for Bishop Sulumeti’s funeral are under way, with details to be announced later this week. Church officials said his body will likely lie in state at the Kakamega Cathedral before burial within the diocese he helped build.

Across parishes in Western Kenya, church bells tolled as congregants gathered for special masses in his honour.

For many, his passing marks the end of an era — and the beginning of reflection on a legacy rooted in faith, service and quiet strength.