Before dawn breaks on operations, exercises or deployments, many Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) families have already begun their own quiet mission of service. They are the source of strength behind those in uniform, providing the emotional resilience, encouragement and stability that enable military personnel to fulfil their demanding responsibilities. By nurturing strong family bonds and faith-centred homes, KDF continues to reinforce the foundation upon which mission readiness and national service depend.
Recognising the indispensable role of families in military life, the Military Ordinariate of Kenya brought together service members, their spouses and children for the Family Life: Couples and Family Mass, a gathering dedicated to prayer, reflection and the renewal of marital and family commitments.
Held on 1 August 2026 at St Peter and Paul Cathedral within the Department of Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, the Mass was presided over by the Bishop of the Military Ordinariate of Kenya, Rt. Rev. Wallace Ng’ang’a.
The celebration united military couples from different units and formations, who attended alongside their families in an atmosphere of worship, fellowship and spiritual renewal.
Beyond receiving the Word of God, participants reflected on the values of love, commitment and mutual support that sustain healthy marriages and resilient families despite the unique demands of military service.
In his homily, Rt. Rev. Ng’ang’a urged couples to place God at the centre of their marriages by cultivating a consistent life of prayer and inviting Him into their daily decisions and family plans. He encouraged them to remain steadfast in faith during the inevitable challenges of married life, noting that spiritual strength enables families to overcome adversity with hope and unity.
The Bishop also called on couples to emulate the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, whose example of holiness, humility and love continues to inspire Christian family life. He further challenged military families to become positive role models, offering guidance and encouragement to young couples preparing for marriage and strengthening the wider faith community through their example.
The occasion also featured a marriage enrichment session led by Sr. (Dr.) Florence Kabala, a member of the Advisory Board of Family Life at the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB). Drawing on her experience in family ministry, she emphasised that lasting marriages are founded on love that forgives, enduring friendship and open communication. She encouraged couples to nurture these virtues as the pillars of lasting and fulfilling relationships.
The Couples and Family Mass reaffirmed the Military Ordinariate’s commitment to strengthening the spiritual and moral wellbeing of KDF families. By promoting faith, unity and healthy family relationships, the initiative contributes to the resilience of military households, recognising that strong families remain an essential pillar in sustaining a professional, motivated and mission-ready force.
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