By Allan Kisia and Martin Mutua

Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Father Maurice Muhatia as the new bishop for Nakuru Diocese.

Muhatia was a priest at Shibuye Parish, Diocese of Kakamega. He takes over from Archbishop Peter Kairo, who was moved to Nyeri.

Making the announcement on Sunday, Bishop Philip Sulumeti of Kakamega Diocese said he received the communication with great joy.

The new Nakuru Diocese Bishop Maurice Muhatia at Mukumu Catholic Parish Church in Kakamega yesterday. Photo: Benjamin Sakwa/Standard

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"I have the honour of informing you the Pope has appointed Muhatia, a priest from your diocese, the new bishop of Nakuru," he announced during a church service at Sacred Heart, Mukumu Parish.

The faithful went into song and dance immediately the announcement was made.

Muhatia was carried shoulder-high by fellow priests who moved him around the church in jubilation.

Sulumeti congratulated the new bishop and reminded him he faces an enormous task.

"Work as a bishop is extremely difficult. I am very happy for Muhatia and I want to assure him of support from my diocese," he added.

Xmas gift

Muhatia, 41, said the appointment was a pleasant surprise and Christmas gift.

Elsewhere, there was pomp and joy when a Catholic priest hosted guests, friends and relatives to celebrate his silver jubilee since joining priesthood.

Kangundo Catholic Parish Priest Father Michael Muange celebrated 25 years as a priest.

The function began with a Mass, which he presided over at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church grounds. More than ten Catholic priests and his elderly mother attended.

Pope Benedict XVI congratulated Father Muange in a letter read to the hundreds of people at the event.