Ruto, Alupo Grace Consecration of New Anglican Bishop in Katakwa Diocese

In a notable display of regional and religious solidarity, Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo joined senior church leaders and dignitaries for the consecration and enthronement of Rt. Rev. Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru. The ceremony, held in Busia County, Kenya, officially installed Ekuru as the fourth Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Katakwa.

Presided over by Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya, the event drew a large assembly of church officials, government representatives, and cultural leaders from both Kenya and Uganda. The consecration signifies the formal transfer of spiritual leadership, with Bishop Ekuru succeeding the retired Rt. Rev. John Ekude.

The elaborate Anglican service included traditional elements such as prayers, an examination of faith, the laying on of hands, anointing with holy oil, and the presentation of episcopal symbols. Archbishop Ole Sapit charged the new bishop to embrace servant leadership, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding church doctrine, fostering unity, and diligently caring for the faithful.

“As a bishop you are called to lead in serving and caring for the people of God. You are to maintain the church’s discipline, guard her faith and promote her mission in the world,” the Archbishop stated, urging Bishop Ekuru to remain closely connected to his congregation.

President Ruto extended congratulations to Bishop Ekuru and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to partnering with the church in service delivery. Vice President Alupo conveyed President Yoweri Museveni’s greetings and lauded faith-based institutions for their vital contributions to education, health, economic development, and the promotion of moral values in Uganda.

Bishop Ekuru, a seasoned cleric with over 20 years of experience in ministry, education, and administration, holds a PhD. He previously served in various leadership roles within the diocese and as an adjunct lecturer at St. Paul’s University. He pledged to lead the diocese with “truth, justice and love.”

This report is based on information from Nile Post.