Widows celebrating the International widows day at Ack St. Stephen’s Mulwanda parish on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
ACK Diocese of Butere joined the global community in commemorating International Widows Day 2026, reaffirming its commitment to protecting, empowering, and supporting widows across the Diocese.
Held at St. Stephen’s Church, Mulwanda Parish, the celebration was guided by the biblical teaching from Exodus 22:22–23 under the theme, “Do Not Take Advantage of Widows.” The message reminded Christians and society at large of God’s command to defend the dignity and rights of widows and other vulnerable members of the community.
During the celebration, the Mothers’ Union expressed heartfelt appreciation to individuals and leaders whose support has significantly improved the lives of widows within the Diocese. Among those recognized were H.E. Governor Fernandes Barasa, who donated 650 chicks and a chick hatchery that has so far generated Ksh. 38,000 for widows to strengthen household livelihoods; Mama Elsie Muhanda, who provided 367 bags of fertilizer to enhance food production and economic resilience and Pastor Benjaline Akeng’a, whose support through the donation of chicks has also contributed to the economic empowerment of widows. Several other well-wishers were equally acknowledged for their generosity and continued partnership in supporting widows.
The Chief Guest, Mama Benjaline Akeng’a, encouraged widows to remain steadfast in faith, assuring them that God has not forgotten them. Drawing lessons from the life of Ruth, she emphasized that God is able to transform seasons of pain into testimonies of hope, declaring that “God is going to rebrand widows,” just as He restored Ruth’s life and gave her a new future filled with purpose and honor.
In a message presented in her absence, the Rt. Rev. Rose Okeno, Bishop of the ACK Diocese of Butere, commended the Mothers’ Union and all partners for their unwavering commitment to caring for widows. She affirmed that the Diocese of Butere is not only committed to empowering widows, teen mothers, and single mothers spiritually, but economically as well. The Bishop urged the Church and the wider community to continue demonstrating Christ’s love through practical acts of compassion, protection, and empowerment, reminding believers that caring for widows is both a biblical mandate and a reflection of God’s heart.