Siaya County has a reason to celebrate following the appointment of Fr Austine Radol Odhiambo as the Vice General Superior of the Comboni Missionaries, a prestigious global Catholic congregation. Fr Radol’s appointment places him at the heart of one of the most influential missionary organizations, marking a significant milestone for Kenya’s Catholic community and religious leadership worldwide.
Born on November 27, 1972, in Kobong Sub-Location, Uyoma Central, Rarieda Constituency in Siaya County, Fr Radol’s journey to the top ranks of the Comboni Missionaries is one of dedication and service. He first joined the Institute with his initial religious profession on May 8, 1999, in Namugongo, Uganda. From there, he pursued his theological studies in Innsbruck, Austria, from 1999 to 2004, before being ordained as a priest on August 19, 2004, at St. Theresa’s Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kisumu.
The Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus, commonly known as the Comboni Missionaries, is an international Catholic religious congregation founded in 1867 by St. Daniele Comboni in Verona, Italy. Dedicated to serving the world’s poorest and most marginalized communities, the congregation has been instrumental in evangelization, education, healthcare, and social justice missions across continents. Today, the Comboni Missionaries are present in Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Asia, with their headquarters in Rome, Italy. As of 2020, they had approximately 1,576 members, including 1,103 priests, operating in 272 mission houses globally.
Fr Radol’s appointment comes as a moment of pride for Kenya, given that the Comboni Missionaries have a deep-rooted presence in the country. The congregation first set foot in Kenya on March 13, 1973, making significant strides in pastoral work, education, and social development. Their unwavering commitment to the people has seen them impact communities through religious teachings, healthcare initiatives, and advocacy for social justice.
His new role as Vice General Superior will see Fr Radol take on greater responsibilities in overseeing the congregation’s global missions. His leadership is expected to enhance the missionary work of the Comboni Fathers, especially in Africa, where the need for evangelization and social development remains paramount.
The appointment of Fr Radol is not only a personal achievement but also a recognition of Kenya’s growing influence in global Catholic leadership. His elevation serves as an inspiration to many young clergy members and faithful believers, proving that commitment and faith can lead to remarkable heights in religious service.
As celebrations continue in Siaya and beyond, Fr Radol’s journey remains a testament to the power of dedication and the impact of missionary work in transforming lives. Kenya now watches with pride as one of its own ascends to shape the future of global missionary service.
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