BY Mukama Phillip Kahigiriza
Mathari, Kenya
Most Reverend Anthony Muheria, Archbishop of Nyeri Archdiocese, highlighted the importance of health care for religious leaders during the sendoff ceremony of Reverend Sister Josephine Njeri Kariuki.
Sister Josephine, who served as the moderator of the Compassion Sisters of the Little Flower of Nyeri, passed away on January 25, 2025, in India after receiving treatment at Consolata Hospital Mathari, Mt. Kenya Hospital, Mater Misericordiae Hospital in Nairobi, and later at Fortis Memorial Hospital in India.
In his homily, Archbishop Muheria praised Sister Josephine for her exceptional leadership, motivational spirit, and dedication to her faith. He acknowledged her as a shining example of joy, patience, and compassion, always remembered for her beautiful big smile.
The Archbishop urged religious leaders to prioritize their health by undergoing regular medical check-ups.Sister Josephine was born on October 5, 1970, and was a sister to Reverend Father Zake Mutugi IMC, the current Regional Superior of the Consolata Missionaries Kenya-Uganda region.
She had a distinguished educational background, having attended Looremeta Primary School, Subukia Secondary School, and later training as a catechist at BK Ramariya Centre in Machakos. She also undertook various courses in leadership, management, and counseling, and was a qualified counselor.She was baptized on July 28, 1973, and confirmed on May 22, 1993, at Subukia Parish in Nakuru Diocese.
Sister Josephine joined the Precious Blood Sisters in 1989 and later became a member of the Companions of the Little Flower Sisters in 1997. She made her first religious profession on January 15, 2022, and assumed leadership of the Companions of the Little Flower Sisters on May 23, 2021.
Sister Josephine will be remembered for her iconic smile, her ability to listen actively, and her inspirational leadership. Various dignitaries, including His Lordship Peter Makau, the Bishop of Isiolo Diocese, and a number of clergy and religious men and women graced the occasion. Until her demise, she served as the coordinator of the Companions of the Little Flower Sisters.
