The Bishops’ Dinner at the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret is a heartwarming initiative launched by Rt Rev Bishop Dominic Kimengich, aimed at fostering a sense of solidarity among Christians by sharing a meal with the bishop. This event not only strengthens Christan’s community bonds but also raises funds for various projects identified by the diocese.
The concept is simple yet impactful: attendees purchase a dinner plate, and after covering the event’s costs, the remaining funds are allocated to support specific projects in the Diocese. Since its inception in 2022, this annual initiative has achieved significant success.
In its first year, 2022, the Bishops’ Dinner raised an impressive 9.8 million shillings, which were directed towards equipping St. Brigittas Hospital in Yamumbi. The following year, 2023, saw even greater success, raising 10.2 million shillings to continue supporting St. Brigittas Hospital in the Uasin Gishu region. This hospital has since become a vital healthcare facility for the local community.
Building on previous successes, the focus for 2024 shifted to supporting Pacem In terris youth projects in the Elgeyo Marakwet region. Despite an average turnout on November 29, 2024, the event raised an impressive 10.5 million shillings, exceeding expectations and demonstrating the community’s commitment to the diocese’s initiatives.
Pacem In terris youth projects in Elgeyo Marakwet. “Pacem In terris,” Latin for “Peace on Earth,” encapsulates the project’s goal: to create a sanctuary for all. The idea, conceptualized by Rev. Fr. Jonas Kiplimo, the current Diocesan Youth Chaplain
The retreat center’s main objective is to help the youth in the diocese grow spiritually, emotionally, psychologically, economically, and socially. Planned activities include training sessions, workshops, and seminars designed to foster well-rounded human development.
The success of the Bishops’ Dinner can be attributed to the strong sense of Christian community and the dedication of the attendees. Christians from various parishes and stations unite for this event, driven by their faith and desire to support the diocese’s initiatives. The dinner not only offers fellowship but also serves as a platform for the bishop to share his vision and inspire the Christian community.
During the 2024 dinner, Rt Rev Bishop Dominic Kimengich emphasized the importance of these projects in evangelizing and uplifting the Christian spirit. He highlighted how the funds raised support initiatives that align with the diocese’s mission of spreading the gospel and serving the community, reinforcing attendees’ commitment to the cause.
In conclusion, the Bishops’ Dinner at the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret is more than a fundraising event; it is a celebration of community, faith, and service. Through this initiative, the diocese has supported various projects with a lasting impact on the community. The event’s success over the past three years is testimony to the dedication and generosity of the attendees, inspiring other communities to come together for meaningful causes.
