Beloved Catholic Priest Fr Chris Wanyonyi dies

The Christ the King Cathedral parish priest started ailing on July 1. He was treated at a hospital in Kakamega after reportedly exhibiting respiratory complications. The beloved priest was then transferred to Bungoma West Hospital and later to Eldoret.

In March 2020, shortly after the first case of coronavirus was reported in Kenya, Fr Wanyonyi was arrested for contravening orders on curfew, and closure of places of worship.

Catholic Priest's Evening Mass

He was conducting an evening mass at the Bungoma-based Catholic church. Faithful who in the service run upon the sight of police. Police, led by Bungoma County Commissioner Abdi Hassan confiscated the items that were being used in the Mass.

"We have lots of respect for the clergy but it is very unfortunate that instead of them leading in fighting this virus, they are the ones who are engaging us in cat and mouse games," Hassan was quoted as saying at that time.

Following the untimely demise, several people who knew Father Wanyonyi have sent messages of condolences.

Eulogies For Beloved Priest

"Fr Wanyonyi has been a strong Pillar of faith for my family and I," said ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna. "We join the entire fraternity of Christ the King Cathedral in Bungoma to mourn this great man. My deepest condolences to his family friends and the Catholic community in Bungoma. Raha ya milele umuangazie mtumishi wako ewe Mwenyezi Mungu."

"This world ain't our home let us accept and pray for the soul of a great servant of God," writes Omwani Nganasa. "The great deed shall follow him. My condolences to the Catholic fraternity, Friends and close relatives. Let them be strong."

Bungoma Apostolic Administrator Rev Joseph Obanyi Sagwe says burial arrangements for the late Fr Wanyonyi are underway.