August 21, 2024 - Metropolitan Konstantin of Zaraysk, the Patriarchal Exarch of Africa, visited the parish of St. Demetrius of Thessaloniki in Mlimani, Lugari Deanery, Kenya, where he led a memorial service for one of the early priests of the Patriarchal Exarchate, Father Chrysostomos Wanjala.

Father Chrysostomos, who tragically passed away in a car accident in January 2022, was the first dean of the Lugari Deanery and a key figure in establishing the presence of the Russian Orthodox Church in Western Kenya. He was among the first to sign a letter condemning the schism in 2019.

During his visit, Metropolitan Konstantin laid flowers at Father Chrysostomos's grave and performed a litia, offering prayers for the departed priest. The Metropolitan also presented the parish with an icon of the Mother of God and offered words of comfort to the priest's widow and family. Father Chrysostomos's eldest son is currently studying at the St. Petersburg Theological Academy.

Following the memorial service, a meeting of the clergy from Lugari Deanery was held, attended by Father Georgy Maximov, head of the Missionary Department of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa, Dean Father Peter Lutomia, and all the clergy of the deanery. The meeting focused on discussing current issues and the development of church life within the deanery.

Photo Credit: Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa