By Reuben Olita -Busia
The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Katakwa Diocese Bishop John Okude is set to elevate long-serving church member Rose Wasike to the Mother’s Union status on Sunday.
Rose Wasike has been an active member of ACK St James Church, Malaba, since 2004. She currently serves as a Supervisor in the Export Department at Kenfreight, Malaba.
Her elevation comes in succession to her late mother, Mama Beatrice Mghoi Wasike, who passed away on December 20, 2024, aged 74 years. Mama Beatrice was a devoted church servant who, before relocating to Malaba, served for nearly five decades as the Assistant Chairlady of ACK Emmanuel Church, Changanwe, Mombasa.
Speaking during the unveiling of the cross for Mama Beatrice at their home in Acunet Village, Malaba Central Ward, Malaba Archdeacon Rev. Ben Oriama said that Rose was initially scheduled to be elevated to the Mother’s Union a year ago, but the ceremony was postponed following the death of her mother.
Rev. Oriama noted that Rose was stepping into the shoes of her late mother, continuing a legacy of faithful service to the church.
Mama Beatrice’s son, Oscar Onyiko, thanked the Anglican Church for standing with the family during and after the loss of their mother. He urged the church to continue praying for them as they seek strength and comfort from God.
Her daughter Violet Wasike said life has been difficult for the family since their mother’s passing and appealed to the church to keep them in prayers.
Daughter-in-law Pearlyne Munoko emphasized the importance of prayer, saying that only God can grant true comfort.
Family members Jimmy Mwaluma and Jimson Mwanyefa urged the family of Mzee Emmanuel Onyiko to embrace peace and unity. Stephen Olita, the Olita family chairman, encouraged the family to accept their mother’s passing and allow her to rest peacefully with God in heaven.
Agnes Isiepai recalled learning about Rabai from history books, noting that Dr. Ludwig Krapf established the first missionary station there in 1844, later joined by Johann Rebmann in 1846.
The ceremony was attended by Rev. Ben Oriama, accompanied by Rev. Gedion Imwene, Evangelist Moses Juma, Ev. James Omabe and Ev. Michael Ekwenye.
