Fr. Robert Tito Kalima has been laid to rest in a solemn ceremony marked by heartfelt tributes and deep reflections on his life and ministry.
The funeral Mass, attended by clergy, religious, and lay faithful, has been presided over by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitui, Rt. Rev. Joseph Mwongela.
Fr. Kalima passe away on 30th July 2025 while undergoing treatment at The Mater Hospital.
In his homily, Bishop Mwongela reflected on the synodal approach to pastoral ministry, a path which Fr. Kalima had faithfully embraced.
“He liked empowering people whom he worked with. He would allow the laity to do what they are supposed to do,” the Bishop noted, urging priests to work closely with lay people in pastoral work. He reminded the faithful that each person in the Church has a role to play and should be given the opportunity to fulfil it.
The Bishop called on priests to mentor the younger generation and on the youth to be ready to be mentored.
He encouraged all Christians to make a positive impact in the lives of others, touching hearts and walking with people during their lifetime rather than only honouring them in death.
Reflecting on the dignity of the priesthood, baptism, and Christian life, Bishop Mwongela urged the faithful to uphold what is right, know their limits, and live saintly lives.
“If you let peace prevail, everything will work smoothly,” he said, adding that the law should be in people’s hearts not only God’s law but also respect for the law of the land, which calls on everyone to do what is right.
Fr. Robert Kalima joined St. Augustine’s Senior Seminary in 1984 for his philosophical studies and later proceeded to St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary for theological studies, which he completed in 1990. He was ordained a deacon on 8th December 1989 and a priest on 11th May 1991.
He served in various parishes, including Kabati, Kimangao, Boma, Mutune, and Miambani, among others. He also served as the Diocesan Vocations Director and as a formator at St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary and St. Matthias Mulumba Major Seminary, Tindinyo.
Many who knew Fr. Kalima have remembered him as a simple, humble, gentle, and peaceful priest whose quiet strength and kindness left a lasting impression.
