The Parish of the Great Martyr Panteleimon in Nairobi has provided humanitarian assistance to local residents who lost their belongings in a recent fire, continuing its charitable mission in the Kenyan capital.

The aid distribution took place after a Divine Liturgy on July 12, during the Sixth Sunday after Pentecost and the feast day of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. The service was celebrated by the parish rector, Priest Raphael Andayi, according to the website of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa.

Following the liturgy, Father Raphael distributed food supplies to members of the community affected by hardship and offered words of encouragement and comfort. The initiative was organized as part of the parish’s ongoing social outreach efforts, which regularly support residents of surrounding neighborhoods.

The Nairobi parish has previously provided assistance during emergencies. In March, after severe flooding damaged local water infrastructure, parishioners worked together with local authorities to distribute drinking water to residents of the affected area.

The year has also marked an important period in the life of the parish itself. In June, Father Raphael Andayi returned to Kenya after completing studies and gaining liturgical experience in Russia. Earlier in the spring, he participated in pastoral training in Moscow alongside other candidates from African countries, studying pastoral theology, liturgics and Church history before being ordained.

In addition to his priestly duties, Father Raphael serves as the head of the primary school established at the Parish of the Great Martyr Panteleimon in Nairobi. Following his return, parishioners and students expressed their joy at his new ministry and offered prayers for his pastoral work.

Today, the parish serves not only as a place of worship but also as a center of support for people facing difficult circumstances. Through charitable projects and community assistance, it continues to play an active role in helping vulnerable residents of Nairobi.