CUEA-GABA: A Journey of Reflection and Renewal
Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo
Under the theme “Kenosis: The Letting Go That Leads to Fulfilment” (Philippians 2:5–8), the staff and participants of the AMECEA Pastoral Institute (API), Gaba Eldoret, gathered for their semester recollection at the Bishops’ House Prayer Centre, Kaptagat, with a total of 40 participants in attendance.
The serene venue, generously offered by Bishop Dominic Kimengich of the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, provided a peaceful atmosphere that fostered prayer, silence, and deep reflection, making the recollection both spiritually enriching and deeply contemplative.
The recollection was facilitated by Rev. Fr. Kevin Kongowea, a PhD student in Biblical Theology at CUEA Lang’ata Campus. He invited priests, religious brothers and sisters, catechists, seminarians, and staff into a journey of interior emptying rooted in faith, trust, and surrender (Proverbs 3:5–6). Drawing from the spiritual meaning of kenosis, he emphasized that true freedom is found not in clinging to security, status, or control, but in entrusting everything to God (Matthew 16:25; 1 Peter 5:7).
Reflecting on Genesis 3:9, “Where are you?”, he highlighted how spiritual displacement leads to fear, shame, blame-shifting, and avoidance of responsibility. From Genesis 4:9, “Where is your brother?”, he reminded participants of their responsibility toward others, warning that indifference is a subtle form of abandonment. Through Isaiah 43:2, he reassured the community that passing through fire and water does not signify God’s absence. From Hebrews 12:14–15, he stressed the pursuit of peace and holiness, cautioning against bitterness that can “spring up and cause trouble.” Romans 12:1–2 further underscored the necessity of surrender and inner renewal, since unhealthy attachments can become burdens that hinder spiritual growth.
In a sociological reflection, Fr. Kevin described four “classes” of people: those with influence, those close to power, the inconsistent and indifferent, and those who feel disappointed and discouraged. He noted that everyone eventually experiences vulnerability, and without spiritual grounding, people may compensate by accumulating possessions, titles, or control. Yet authentic freedom comes only through letting go.
He also warned against isolation, explaining that loneliness can weaken spiritual resistance. Even Jesus faced temptation in solitude (Matthew 4:1–11). Therefore, community, prayer, and openness are essential safeguards.
Moving from theology to practice, Fr. Kevin outlined how kenosis can be lived daily by embracing self-acceptance and discernment, choosing growth over bitterness in moments of trial, and practicing detachment from possessions, approval, and control.
Besides, he added, building authentic relationships through honesty and love is essential to living kenosis, maintaining emotional boundaries and self-care, using social media and all tools wisely and intentionally, and prioritizing one’s humanity and vocation among others.
He presented Jesus Christ as the supreme model of kenosis, one who did not cling to divine privilege but embraced humility and obedience, even unto death on a cross.
In emptying Himself, He did not lose His divinity; rather, His true greatness was revealed. True humility, Fr. Kevin emphasized, transforms a person into a giver rather than a taker.
The recollection concluded with a call to protect one’s humanity through gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18), empathy and non-judgment, meaningful friendships, self-awareness, and intentional surrender.
