| The Philothea Mission Project began in the year 2004, with the approval of the Archbishop of Nairobi, His Grace Raphael Ndingi Mwana’a Nzeki, as a humble response to the call of the late Pope John Paul II in his Novo Millennio Ineunte to give a “new impetus in Christian living” (n.30) by promoting the formation and spiritual transformation of Christ’s faithful in their growth in holiness. Indeed, “it is a duty that concerns not only certain Christians: “All Christian faithful, of whatever state or rank, are called to fullness of the Christian life and to perfection of charity.” (n.30)
The founding of the Philothea Missionary Society was profoundly inspired by the writings and teachings of St. Francis de Sales, a Doctor and teacher in the Church and the author of two masterpieces, Introduction to the Devout Life, and the Treatise on the Love of God. He was convinced that God sees humanity as a great and varied garden. The various calling of life- soldier, politician, widow, married, single, youth, old, are like the various flowers of the field; God loves them all and He wills their eternal salvation. St Francis de Sales called them Philothea!- Lover of God.
The Philothea mission comprises of the formation of the lay faithful in their Christian life and accompaniment and support in their daily life. It is carried out by committed members of the Philothea Missionary Society, which is a public association of Christ’s faithful. Lay members are assisted by priests and religious in carrying out their ministry.
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