The words of the General Chapter 2021 echo in each of our hearts: “Let us go over to the other shore.” These echoes led us to bring this call into reality by bringing our Holy Family presence to a different land. A new chapter of the Holy Family emerged in Kenya through the dream and vision of the African Continental Leaders, with the approval of the General Leadership Team, whose constant support, collaboration, and enthusiasm made it possible to spread the Charism of PBN in the soil of Nandi Hills. Srs. Micheline Kenda, the Unit Leader of Rwanda and Uganda, Matilda Lazarus from Malawi and Jesmin Fernando, General Councillor, visited the area at different times to study its possibilities. During the Enlarged General Council of 2024, the proposal was approved, opening a new horizon for a new community.
A seed of the Holy Family was put into the soil of Nandi Hills on 1st September 2025 with four Sisters: Selvathy Malachias from Jaffna – Sri Lanka, Saira Anjum from Pakistan, Angela Molapo from Lesotho, and Agnès Ongwisa from Congo. Our presence is a “Genesis” - a new creation of international solidarity. Together, we step into the light of this mission, eager to serve the local community while modelling the beauty of global sisterhood.
Before the dawn broke in Kenya, there were long and testing nights. Our community did not merely arrive; we emerged from a gruelling pilgrimage through Rwanda and Uganda. Every trial of pioneer life and every lack of facility became preparation, shaping a resilient, multicultural heart. Guided by Providence, we finally struck root in Nandi Hills, where the sun now rises on a new chapter of Holy Family service.
Our mission found its home in the Diocese of Kapsabet, in the Parish of Our Lady of Peace, under the guidance of Fr. Michael Langat. Nestled within the emerald embrace of the Nandi Hills, this land is both a geographic destination and a spiritual sanctuary. Here, the peace of our patroness meets the vibrant energy of the Nandi people. After our long migration, we realized we had been placed exactly where the Holy Family is needed.
The dawn of our mission was marked by the challenges of pioneering, but these dissolved when we secured a home. The hospitality of the local Church and the people of Nandi Hills made us feel we had reached a promised land. Our early days were strengthened by the tireless presence of Sr. Jesmin who worked relentlessly for one month to secure and equip our residence. With her encouragement and the parish’s support, our settling-in became a sacred planting of roots. Today, with Fr. Michael Langat, we joyfully begin our pastoral work, transforming pioneer hardships into a ministry of presence and peace.
To enter the heart of Nandi Hills, we first entered its language, dedicating ourselves to Kiswahili. Our ministry is one of presence - as choir members, catechists, and companions to the youth in the PMC- Pontifical Missionary Children and MYM – Missionary Youth Movements. We share life through Small Christian Communities, funerals, and parish activities. Our focus now turns to the domestic church. In Kisowyo village, we visit homes, especially separated and fractured families, where there is a deep hunger for reconciliation and where the Holy Family Charism truly flourishes.
After four months of preparation and prayer, our mission is in full bloom. We teach English, Religion, and Catechism, and guide students toward the heart of the school day - the Holy Mass.
As we cross the threshold into 2026, we move forward with the quiet confidence that the Holy Family is walking beside us. We lean heavily on the intercession of our Founder, asking for the wisdom to discern and the knowledge to inspire. Though the path ahead may hold its trials, we are resolved to face every challenge with courage, ensuring that our Charism is not just a concept but a living, breathing reality in every soul we encounter. In this sacred landscape, our journey has only just begun; like the rising sun over the hills, we carry a light that no shadow can diminish, committed to serving wherever the Spirit leads.
Sr. Selvathy Malachias
Nandi Hills, Kenya