Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Before her passing in 2021, Veronica Kitili, an illiterate catechist who shared the Catholic faith with many in her Kenyan village of Kenyatta, harbored a dream of having a church built there. Now, two retired priests from the Archdiocese of Louisville are working to fulfill that vision.

Father J. Ronald Knott and Father John Judie have taken significant steps toward making Kitili's dream a reality. The initiative began when Father Knott learned about Kitili's desire from her daughter, Little Sister of the Poor Stephen Kitili. Sister Kitili serves at St. Joseph Home for the Aged in Louisville, where she met Father Knott during his Mass celebrations.

Sister Kitili recalled her mother's wish: “My mother, on her deathbed, said that she didn’t know if the church would be constructed." She further expressed gratitude towards Father Knott’s involvement by saying, “It’s a miracle. It’s been his own mission."

Construction on the stone church started in January and is expected to be completed soon. This new structure will accommodate 500 worshipers and is part of St. Peter Claver Church in the Diocese of Machakos. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for August 10.

Kitili was known for teaching the faith at night and being a godmother to hundreds while walking miles to attend Mass. Her initial efforts resulted in constructing a simple stick structure with sheet metal roofing as the original St. Veronica.

The new building is supported by donations including $30,000 from Father Knott himself and an equal amount from other donors. Father Judie managed the project alongside Julius Kitili, Veronica's son overseeing construction locally.

Father Judie noted the villagers' commitment: “We’ve been pleased to see the level of cooperation.” He plans to convey this message during his visit to Kenya for the dedication ceremony on behalf of Father Knott.

Julius Kitili described local sentiments towards St. Veronica Church: “We are very, very grateful... It’s a miracle.”

For more information about St. Veronica Church in Kenya, contact Father Knott at jrknott@bellsouth.net.