Pope Francis has recently designated Reverend Father John Kiplimo Lelei as the auxiliary bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Eldoret, a significant appointment within the church hierarchy.
Formerly serving as the vicar general at the same diocese, Father Kiplimo now steps into the role of auxiliary bishop, tasked with aiding the diocesan bishop in addressing both the pastoral and administrative needs of the diocese.
Born on August 15, 1958, in Soy, Uasin Gishu County, Kiplimo pursued his academic journey in philosophy at Saint Augustine’s Senior Seminary in Mabanga, followed by theology studies at Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi. Ordained a priest on October 26, 1985, for the Eldoret diocese, he has since been deeply involved in various aspects of pastoral work and academic pursuits.
His commitment to academic excellence led him to earn a doctorate in theology, specializing in liturgy, from the Universität Wien. Throughout his career, Kiplimo has held diverse roles within the church, serving as parish vicar in Suwerwa and Chepterit (1985-1987), parish priest in multiple locations including Yamumbi, Suwerwa, Chepterit, and Tachasis, as well as fulfilling administrative duties such as vicar forane of the deaneries of Kitale and Nandi (1987-1996).
His contributions extend beyond the borders of his home diocese, with stints as parish collaborator in the archdiocese of Vienna, a lecturer at various institutions including the AMECEA Pastoral Institute of Gaba and the Institute of Development Studies in Kobujoi. He has also served as a formator and rector at the Saint Matthias Mulumba Senior Seminary in Tindinyo and later as rector of Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary in Nairobi.
Currently holding the position of vicar general of Eldoret, Father Kiplimo’s appointment as auxiliary bishop signifies a continuation of his dedicated service and commitment to the Catholic Church’s mission.
