Michael Mithamo: Nyeri diocese ordains first priest with visual impairment

Father Michael Mithamo King'ori was ordained alongside five other priests in a colourful mass. [Purity Mwangi, Standard]

Muheria said the ordination of Michael, the first for the Nyeri diocese, was a gesture to the wider society to accept and allow PWDs, who are mostly left out, to access the church and offer service to God.

"It's a great sacrifice for him to go through his studies in seminary since sometimes he needed some assistance to enable him to do some tasks. He is a very brave priest," said Muheria.

He called for the deployment of technology in Catholic churches and in formation schools noting that PWDs had a right to fully immerse in the faith and church functions like all citizenry.

"Let's accommodate all people regardless of their disabilities. We are all called to serve God in different ways," said the Archbishop.

Speaking after the event, Father Michael expressed gratitude to the Bishop, the Catholic Church, parishioners and classmates for enabling him to achieve his dream of becoming a priest.

Father Michael Mithamo King'ori addresses parishioners after being ordained. [Purity Mwangi, Standard]

"I want to thank all the priests and brothers who have been praying for me and the Christians who help me throughout my studies, especially during the mission in churches," said Father Michael.

Father Michael will continue serving at Kigumo Parish while the other ordained priests, including, Fr. John Wanjohi will serve at Mukurweini parish, Fr. George Gitonga (Mugunda Parish) and Fr. Joseph Waihenya at Karima parish.

Retired Archbishop Peter Joseph Kairo attended the mass alongside Kieni MP Njoroge Wainana.