The St John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Karen, Nairobi, held a vibrant boat procession to honour their beloved parish priest, Fr Joseph Mwangi. Parishioners carried him in a brightly decorated boat through the church grounds, with Fr Mwangi playfully imitating rowing, much to the delight of the gathered crowd.
The event, part of the parish’s annual feast day celebrations, drew hundreds of faithful from Karen and beyond, celebrating faith and community in a unique, joyful display. The boat procession, a cherished tradition at St John the Evangelist, symbolises the priest as a “fisher of men”, guiding the flock through spiritual waters.
Parishioners decorated the wooden boat with flowers, ribbons, and colourful fabrics, creating a striking visual against the lush Karen landscape. Children led the procession with hymns, while adults followed, chanting prayers and waving banners.
Fr Mwangi, dressed in liturgical vestments, waved to the crowd, his mock-rowing gestures sparking laughter and applause. “This is our way of showing love for our shepherd,” said Mary Wanjiku, a long-time parishioner.
“Fr Mwangi has been with us through baptisms, weddings, and losses. Carrying him in the boat reminds us of his leadership.” The event, organised by the parish’s youth and women’s groups, also included a mass and a communal meal, fostering unity among attendees.
The procession began at the church’s entrance, winding through the compound to a temporary stage where Fr Mwangi delivered a heartfelt homily. He spoke on faith as a journey, likening it to navigating a boat through life’s storms.
“Together, we row toward Christ,” he said, encouraging resilience and community spirit. The crowd erupted in cheers, moved by his words and the symbolic act.
Local leaders, including a representative from the Karen Lang’ata Community Forum, praised the church for its role in fostering togetherness.
The event concluded with a blessing of the boat, which will be stored until next year’s celebration. St John the Evangelist’s boat procession underscores Karen’s vibrant Catholic community, blending faith, tradition, and joy.