A Shepherd for Meru: The Journey of Bishop Jackson Murugara

By Amin Ongayas

In the heart of Meru, at the bustling Kinoru Stadium, thousands of faithful have gathered for a historic event. Today, Reverend Father Jackson Murugara is being consecrated as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Meru. His journey to this moment has been one of faith, dedication, and service—an inspiring story of a man called to shepherd his people.

Father Jackson was born in 1970 in Kamanyaki, Tharaka Nithi County, Jackson Murugara grew up in a modest home, shaped by the values of hard work and faith. His early years were filled with the rhythms of rural life—school, farm work, and community gatherings. But amidst this simple upbringing, a deeper calling was stirring in his heart.

Murugara’s journey to priesthood began at St. Pius X Seminary in Nkubu, where he nurtured his spiritual vocation. He later joined the Consolata Missionaries, a congregation known for its commitment to evangelization and social work. His passion for serving the church saw him ordained as a priest, a path that would eventually lead him to international missions and leadership roles within the church.

A Life of Service

Over the years, Father Murugara has worn many hats—missionary, mentor, and administrator. His work with the Consolata Missionaries took him to various parts of Kenya and beyond, where he worked with marginalized communities, spreading the Gospel and empowering the needy.

Before his appointment as Coadjutor Bishop, he served at the Consolata Shrine in Westlands, Nairobi, where his leadership and spiritual guidance earned him respect. Those who know him describe him as a humble yet firm leader, deeply committed to uplifting the faithful.

The Appointment by Pope Francis

On January 16, 2025, Pope Francis made a historic announcement: Father Jackson Murugara had been chosen as the Coadjutor Bishop of Meru. The news was met with joy and celebration among the Catholic community in Kenya, particularly in Meru, where he is seen as a son of the soil.

As a coadjutor bishop, Murugara will work alongside Bishop Salesius Mugambi, with the expectation that he will eventually take over leadership of the diocese upon Bishop Mugambi’s retirement. His appointment signals a new chapter for the Meru Diocese, bringing hope and renewed energy to the faithful.

A Vision for the Future

Bishop Murugara steps into his role at a time when the church faces numerous challenges—from declining youth engagement to economic hardships affecting many congregants. However, he remains optimistic. In his first address after the appointment, he emphasized the need for unity, evangelization, and social transformation.

“My mission is to serve with humility, to walk with the people of Meru in faith, and to continue building a strong, inclusive church,” he said.

His leadership is expected to focus on deepening faith, supporting education, and enhancing the church’s role in community development.

The People’s Bishop

As he stands before the crowd at Kinoru Stadium today, his presence is a symbol of hope. Many see him as the bridge between generations—a leader deeply rooted in tradition yet open to the modern realities of the church.

For the people of Meru, Bishop Jackson Murugara is more than just a clergyman. He is a shepherd, a guide, and a beacon of faith. His journey, marked by devotion and service, is a testament to the power of a life lived for others.

As he begins this new chapter, the faithful in Meru and beyond eagerly watch, ready to walk with him on this sacred journey of leadership and transformation.