Associate Candidates Meet in Kenya

Associate Candidates in Kenya gathered with Sisters of Charity of Nazareth to share prayer, stories, and hopes for the future of the Associate relationship. The gathering included the six women who began formation last fall, Sisters serving in the region, and a visiting Candidate from Kentucky.

The Associate Candidates in Kenya are: Top, left to right, Everlyne Mukoya Sasia, Sara Akinyi, Diphine Aktch Ouma, Getrude Bahati Charo, Benta Akoth Odongo, and bottom, second from left, Euphemia Soila Mundu.

Kenya’s Associate Program

The Associate program in Kenya was launched in September 2024. Candidates began by joining liturgical celebrations and orientation sessions. Since then, they have met several times and are planning regular monthly gatherings for prayer and reflection. Each woman brings her own gifts to the community: some are catechists, others are businesswomen, parish leaders, or teachers. Their commitment includes visiting the sick, teaching catechism, and supporting parish life.

During this recent meeting, Candidates reflected on what it means to be part of the SCN family. They spoke about spiritual growth, learning from Mother Catherine Spalding’s life, and finding strength in belonging to a wider community. “Praying together will help us walk this journey,” one Candidate shared. Another added that being an Associate is “an opportunity to work hand in hand with the Sisters and to serve with whatever I have.”

A Global Connection

The Candidates were joined by Spalding Hurst, Director of Mission Advancement at Nazareth, who is himself an Associate Candidate in the United States. He shared about the U.S. formation program, monthly faith groups, and the way Associates there participate in ministry and supporting the mission. The parallels between Kenya and the other five countries where Sisters serve were clear. Although cultures differ, Associates everywhere share prayer, community, and action rooted in the charism of Mother Catherine and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.

Sisters present emphasized that Associates strengthen the mission by extending presence in places and among people where Sisters cannot always reach. The growth of the Associate program ensures that the spirit of charity and service will continue to flourish, even if vowed membership declines.

Looking Ahead

Kenya’s Associate Candidates expressed joy at the journey they have begun. Their commitment to prayer, service, and care for creation echoes the commitments of Associates worldwide. As one Sister reflected, “We are no longer just a few Sisters here. With Associates, we are many more reaching out to the people.”

“The Associates are there, whether you name it or not. An Associate is someone teaming up with the Sisters in the mission,” one Candidate said.

As in Belize, Botswana, India, Nepal, and the U.S., the Associate program is becoming a vital part of the SCN Community in Kenya. What began as a small group is already a sign of how the mission of charity, rooted in Mother Catherine Spalding’s vision, continues to grow across borders and cultures.

Sister Amrita Meets with SCNA Candidates in Kenya

What is an SCN Associate?

Associates are women and men who choose to live the mission of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in their own lives. They may be married or single, Catholic or from other faith traditions. Some are former Sisters, alumni of SCN schools, health care partners, or friends who share a deep connection with the Congregation. Associates join in prayer, community, and service. They make a renewable commitment, usually for five years, and participate in a two-year formation program that introduces them to the history, spirituality, and mission of the Sisters. Today there are more than 200 Associates in the United States and growing numbers in Belize, Botswana, India, and now Kenya.

The Associate Relationship