- Deacon Joseph Mutisya to be ordained priest by Pope Leo XIV in Rome on June 27
- First from Kitui Diocese to receive ordination directly from the Holy Father
- Studied at Christ the King Major Seminary, with degrees from CUEA
- Currently serves at St. Francis Kamutei and as Diocesan Youth Coordinator
- The ordination highlights growing recognition of African clergy in the global Church
- Diocese plans to ordain 50 priests by 2028
From the heart of Kitui to the steps of the Vatican—Deacon Joseph Mutisya is set to make history. Born and raised in Kitui County, Mutisya’s priestly journey began at Katyethoka Primary School, followed by Kwa-Ukungu Secondary School, where he completed his KCSE in 2012.
His desire to serve God led him to Christ the King Major Seminary, beginning a long spiritual and academic formation journey. Mutisya went on to earn degrees in Philosophy and Theology from CUEA, as well as a Certificate in Spiritual Studies, shaping his mind and spirit for a life of service.
On June 27, all eyes will be on Rome, where Pope Leo XIV will ordain Deacon Mutisya to the priesthood in a special ceremony. This marks the first time that someone from the Catholic Diocese of Kitui will be ordained by the Pope himself.
“This ordination is a reminder that God calls from everywhere, even the drylands of Kitui,” said Mutisya before departing for Rome.
He will travel with Fr. Josephat Ndunda, representing not just his Diocese, but the hopes of many young Africans dreaming of the priesthood.
Since his ordination as Deacon on 8th December 2024 by Bishop Joseph Mwongela, Mutisya has served faithfully at St. Francis of Assisi Kamutei Parish. He also works as the Diocesan Youth Coordinator, becoming a mentor and spiritual guide to young Catholics across Kitui.
His journey reflects a growing shift in the global Church—a deepening recognition of African leadership in faith.
Kitui’s Rising Vocations and Bigger Vision
Kitui Diocese, with 97 priests and 80 seminarians, is on a mission. Its 2024–2028 Pastoral Strategic Plan aims to ordain 50 new priests by 2028, and already, 10 new seminarians will join the seminary this August.
The Diocese is also preparing for a major ordination on 8th December 2025, when five deacons—including Emmanuel Mwanzia and Julius Munyoki—are expected to be ordained priests. On the same day, 15 new deacons will be ordained.
Deacon Mutisya’s ordination by the Pope is not just a personal victory—it’s a sign that the African Church is being heard, seen, and respected. It’s a story of faith, patience, and purpose, reminding young believers that their roots don’t limit how far they can rise.
And on June 27, from Kitui to Rome, a spiritual chapter will begin—written in humility, sealed in history.
