The late Deacon Dennis Benard Maithya has been laid to rest in a solemn ceremony at the Mutune Diocesan Cemetery, where hundreds of mourners gathered to bid him farewell. The Funeral Mass has been presided over by Bishop Norman King’oo of the Catholic Diocese of Machakos at St. Patrick’s Mutune parish grounds.
The homilist of the day, Bishop Joseph Mwongela, reminded the faithful that life is precious and must be respected. He urged Christians to remain prayerful, noting that the time and manner of death are known only to God. Bishop Mwongela called on the faithful to continue showing love and support to clergy, religious, and seminarians so that they may serve God faithfully. He further emphasized the importance of love, unity, and cooperation within the Church, encouraging everyone to draw strength from God as they carry their daily crosses.
In his message, Bishop Norman King’oo reminded everyone to live each day faithfully and responsibly, saying: “The only day we are sure of is today, and the only time we are sure of is now. Whatever you are doing, do it as if it were your last day, for tomorrow may never be yours.” He further encouraged Christians to serve God and the Church faithfully, emphasizing that they are missionaries among themselves and should always give their very best in service to the Church.
Deacon Dennis Benard Maithya was ordained on 8th December 2025 and tragically died on 23rd January 2026 in a road accident along the Mwingi–Nguni Road.
Deacon Denis Bernard was the son of Boniface Maithya Kisungi and Cecilia Muia Maithya. He hailed from St. Paul’s–Kasyala Parish and was the third-born in a family of five children. From 2001 to 2010, he attended Kyeni Primary School for his primary education and later joined WeaverBird High School, Kitale, for his secondary education from 2011 to 2014.
He joined St. Mary’s Propaedeutic Seminary, Molo, for his spiritual year from 2016 to 2017.
From 2017 to 2020, he proceeded to St. Augustine’s Senior Seminary, Mabanga, for philosophical studies. He later joined St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary, Nairobi, for theological studies from 2021 to 2025. He graduated from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) on 24th October 2025.
As a seminarian, he undertook pastoral experience in the following parishes: Ikutha Parish, Kabati Parish, Miambani Parish, Katutu Parish, Mutomo Parish, Nuu Parish, Nguni Parish, and Museve Parish.
We pray for his family and for the repose of his soul. May he rest in eternal peace
