Pastor Joseph Mokaya: Catholic Priest Dies in Mater Hospital, Believers Cry

  • His Eminence, Reverend Philip Anyolo, Archbishop of Nairobi, has announced the death of Reverend Father Joseph Mokaya
  • He served the Catholic Church for about 50 years, working in many parishes across Nairobi and central Kenya
  • Devotees took to social media to mourn his death, sharing emotional tributes and personal experiences

The Catholic Church in Kenya mourns the death of Pastor Joseph Mokaya.

Reverend Nairobi priest Joseph Mokaya dies after falling ill. Photo: Nairobi County.
Source: Facebook

He was a respected priest of the Archdiocese of Nairobi.

Pastor Mokaya died on Tuesday night, January 27, while receiving treatment at the Mater Hospital in Nairobi.

In a touching statement shared on Facebook on Wednesday, January 28, the Archdiocese confirmed his death, with Archbishop Philip Anyolo expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy.

“His Eminence, Reverend Philip Anyolo, Archbishop of Nairobi, announces with great sadness the death of Reverend Fr. Joseph Mokaya, who died at the Mater Hospital last night,” read part of the statement.

Joseph Mokaya lived a life of service and dedication

Fr. Mokaya was ordained a priest on June 28, 1975, at Our Lady of the Visitation Church, Makadara, marking the beginning of a remarkable ministry that spanned almost five decades.

In his excellent service, he served in several parishes and pastoral roles, including Mangu Parish (Gatundu North), Riruta Parish, St. Joseph Jericho Parish, Ruku Parish (Lower Kabete), Ndundu Parish (South Gatundu), St. Mary Magdalene Kariokor Parish, Nyamangara Parish (Gatundu North), and Blessed Sacrament Buruburu Parish, where he was serving at the time of his death.

He also played an important role in shaping future priests as a trainer at Saint Mathias Mulumba Major Seminary, Tindinyo, and served in the AMECEA Secretariat in Nairobi. Furthermore, he participated during the 43rd International Eucharistic Congress held in Nairobi.

Father Mokaya pursued advanced studies in theology at the University of Nairobi, Duquesne University in the United States, and in Rome, where he obtained Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Sacred Theology.

Reverend Joseph Mokaya.
Pastor Joseph Mokaya has passed away. Photo: Joseph Mokaya.
Source: Facebook

Kenyans mourn Pastor Joseph Mokaya

The news of his death caused emotional condolences from the parishioners and believers who remembered him as a compassionate pastor, a dedicated teacher, and a humble servant of God.

Jane Kogi:

“This servant of God was very concerned about the spiritual life of our parents and our community. He was there to lay my mother to rest when she was called home. A proud Kisii who spoke Kikuyu fluently, a good sign of unity and love beyond the tribe. The Nyamang’ara parish greatly appreciates your service, Fr. Mokaya. You fought a good fight, you finished the race, and you protected the faith. Rest in eternal peace, Father. Your work continues in the lives you touched.”

Douglas Sokoro Mariaka:

“May the soul rest in peace.”

Eunice Kinyita:

“May his soul rest in peace. You baptized my first born. Forever in our hearts.”

Sally Mumbi:

“Mokaya…Give him eternal pleasure, O Lord, and let eternal light shine upon him. May his soul rest in peace.”

Frasia Nduta

“We celebrated his 50 years as a priest last year. May his soul rest in peace.”

Agnes Mwangi:

“Oh, no, what a sad morning. Father, you have gone too early. You have lost a blessed Sacrament. You have lost a great man of God. We will miss your sermons. May our good Lord give the family peace and strength that surpasses human understanding, and may he rest in eternal peace.”

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