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On Saturday, the Catholic Church in Makueni officially installed Bishop Simon Peter Kamomoe as the new Auxiliary Bishop of Wote Diocese.
Bishop Kamomoe, previously serving as Auxiliary Bishop of Nairobi Archdiocese, was appointed by Pope Leo XIV on July 5, 2025, to assist in the newly established diocese, which was formed in July 2023. He will support Bishop Paul Kariuki, who has been unwell in recent months, and has led the diocese since its inception.
The installation ceremony took place at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Wote town and was presided over by Archbishop Philip Anyolo of Nairobi.
In his address, Archbishop Anyolo encouraged the faithful to unite and collaborate with Bishop Kamomoe for the growth and development of the young diocese.
“Unity and collaboration are essential for the progress of this new diocese,” he said.
Bishop Kamomoe, in his first public remarks, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and pledged to serve the diocese with humility. He called on both priests and the faithful to join him in advancing the church’s mission.
“Your presence here today fills me with hope. Together, we will journey in faith and hope, serving God with zeal and unity,” he stated.
The new auxiliary bishop also acknowledged the cooperation between the church and political leaders, recognizing their shared role in supporting community development. “I thank our political leaders for their willingness to collaborate with the church to better the lives of the people of Wote Diocese and the country,” Kamomoe added.
Archbishop Antony Muheria of Nyeri urged the congregation to continue praying for Bishop Kariuki’s recovery, asking for divine intervention so that he may return to his pastoral duties.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr, accompanied by his wife Anita, welcomed Bishop Kamomoe and promised to work closely with him through faith-based institutions like schools and hospitals.
“We are fortunate to have an Auxiliary Bishop to assist Bishop Kariuki. Many church programs that were stalled will now be revitalized,” said the governor, praising Bishop Kariuki’s dedication.
Bishop Norman Wambua of Machakos encouraged Bishop Kamomoe to use his pastoral calling to strengthen the church as the cornerstone of family and community life.
The colorful ceremony was attended by a wide range of leaders and clergy, including Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo, County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu, and Archbishop Martin Kivuva of Mombasa.
With Bishop Kamomoe’s installation, Wote Diocese looks ahead to a future of renewed strength and leadership, even as prayers continue for Bishop Kariuki’s recovery.
