The Holy
Family Church … first in Nairobi, built largely by Goans!
The Holy Family Minor Basilica in Nairobi's
history began in 1904 when it was established as a parish church by the
Holy Ghost Missionaries. The initial church, a modest structure built to
accommodate 300-400 people, was the first stone building in Nairobi. It
served as a place of worship for railway workers and other early residents, and
the first baptism was held in 1907, with the first marriage following in 1908.
Over time, as Nairobi grew, the need for a larger church became apparent,
leading to the construction of the current basilica between 1960 and 1963. This
new basilica, which can hold up to 4,000 people, was officially opened in 1963
and later designated a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1982.
Here's a more detailed timeline:
- 1904: The Holy Family Church, a
parish church, is established by the Holy Ghost Missionaries, serving the
railway workers and early residents.
- 1906-1923: The first baptism is held
in 1907, the first marriage in 1908, and the first confirmation in
1923.
- 1960-1963: Construction of the
current basilica, a larger structure with a capacity of 4,000,
begins.
- 1963: The new basilica is
officially blessed and opened.
- 1982: The church is elevated to
a Minor Basilica by Pope John Paul II.
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