On 1st July 2025, the Congregation of the Mission – Vice Province of Kenya marked a significant and grace-filled transition in leadership as Fr. Benson Odhiambo, C.M. was officially installed as the new Visitor, succeeding Very Rev. Fr. Edwin Mugwe, C.M. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was held at the Regional House of the Congregation, in Nairobi. The occasion drew together confreres and invited guests in a spirit of unity, prayer, and Vincentian fraternity.
Soon after Mass, Fr. Benson shared heartfelt reflections, emphasizing the day as a celebration of God’s providence and the continuity of mission.
Dear friends, it’s a wonderful moment. We’ve just had a beautiful celebration to mark the wonders of God in our little Company here in the Vice Province of Kenya. The transition from one leadership to another is a clear testament to God’s grace and mercy that has brought us this far.
He expressed deep gratitude for the messages of encouragement received from across the Vincentian world, including confreres from Kenya, the Western Province, and the General Curia led by the Superior General, Fr. Tomaž Mavrič, C.M. Fr. Benson noted that he draws strength from the prayers and support of many, adding:
“I’ve chosen as my motto the prayer of Jesus in John 17: ‘That they may be one.’ Unity is our strength. If we walk together, nothing can defeat us. Our unity will be the witness that draws others to Christ.”
The outgoing Visitor, Fr. Edwin Mugwe, C.M., spoke with joy and gratitude as he passed on the mantle of leadership. He commended Fr. Benson, who had served alongside him on the council, and assured him of continued prayer and support.
“It has been an incredible four and a half years – a time of growth, mission, and milestones. Most notably, during this period, we became a Vice Province – and that will always remain close to my heart.”
Fr. Edwin acknowledged the collective effort and goodwill of the confreres and supporters, particularly from the Western Province, which played a vital role in the Vice Province’s growth. He also shared that he will be taking a short period of rest before embarking on further studies.
The day was a powerful reminder that leadership within the Vincentian family is not about status but service – guided by grace, rooted in community, and focused on the mission to serve Christ in the poor.
As Fr. Benson steps into this sacred role, the Vice Province moves forward not through rupture but as a community walking side by side, grounded in the same call, and united by one purpose – to serve, to grow, and to witness to the love of Christ.
“God bless each one of you. God bless our little Company. God bless the Vice Province of Kenya.”