Love transcends language as deaf and dumb couple wed

Thomas Likhodo, 50, and 25-year-old Grace Wanjiru exchanged vows after a Sunday mass at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish church - Kiti, Nakuru County.

The colourful ceremony was presided over by Father Vincent Makoha.

At hand to ensure that the vows were properly interpreted was Sister Mary Josephine, a nun known for her efforts to champion the rights of persons with disability in Nakuru City.

Their best couple- Bethwel Kinyua and Jennifer Wanja, were also deaf and dumb.

The two tied the knot on May 28, 2023, in a similar ceremony at the same church.

The presiding priest retold a touching story of Likhodo and Wanjiru, who first met in a market where they were buying vegetables.

According to Fr Makoha, their mode of communication- sign language made them fall in love at first sight.

Thomas Likhodo and Grace Wanjiru tie the knot. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

He appreciated the efforts made by the church by catering to the union.

Elijah Likhodo stated that his brother was born normal, just like any other child, but at seven, he became sick and was unable to speak again.

He said as a family, they appreciated the church's efforts in ensuring the union was successful.

Magaret Ngotie said the wedding was a blessing and prayed that the union be blessed with children.

"We pray that God will bless the union by giving them children. We will support them by guiding them," she said.

Sister Josephine said she prepared the couple for church marriage by ensuring they got proper counselling and understanding of marriage.

"I have known them since last year in July," Josephine said.