Piece by: CLAUSE MASIKA

15 November 2022

• Irungu, who was born in Nyeri County, was 35 years old at the time of his death.

• Father José Vieira, Vigário Geral, will preside over the funeral ceremonies that will precede the burial.

Father James Wahome Irungu, a Kenyan priest, drowned in a river in Brazil on Monday.

The Diocese of Bonfim Bahia Brazil confirmed the death of the Kenyan priest in a statement.

"It's with deep regret that we announce the passing of Fr. James Wahome Irungu which occurred this Monday, November 14. He is a victim of drowning in the San Fransisco River," read the statement from the Diocese.

Irungu, who was born in Nyeri County, Kenya, was 35 years old at the time of his death.

He was ordained four years ago and was sent by the Consolata missionaries to the Diocese of Bonfim in 2021 when he began his pastorate in the Parish of São João Batista in Jaguarari.

Father José Vieira, Vigário Geral, will preside over the funeral ceremonies that will precede his burial.

He will be laid to rest on Tuesday, November 15, in the city of Jaguarari.

Douglas Wekesa, a seminarian based in Colombia, condoled with the family of the late priest.

"We are shocked by his demise but we continue asking God to strengthen his family and may his soul rest in peace," he said.