Attack at St. Mary of Egypt Refuge Center! Prayers needed

This past week brought a grave trial to our Mission in Gem, St. Mary of Egypt Refuge Center. Late in the night, a group of thieves violently invaded the property, targeting our community with brutal force. They stole mattresses, blankets, and tools—but worse than the loss of property was the vicious attack on one of our faithful workers and guards, Otieno.

When the assailants arrived, they demanded to see Fr. Antipas personally before unleashing their violence. Otieno, in his courage and loyalty, stood in their way. He was cut severely with a machete, losing one of his ears and suffering a deep wound to his lower back. It is feared that his spinal cord may have been injured. Thanks to the swift actions of nearby villagers, he was rushed first to a local clinic and, after we sent emergency funds, transferred to Siaya Referral Hospital for more advanced care. His condition remains critical.

In the midst of this crisis, Fr. Antipas is reminded of the words and example of his Spiritual Father, Fr. Silouan, who taught him to never to yield to fear. Fr. Silouan often faced threats but stood his ground with peace and unwavering trust in Christ. Inspired by him, he will do the same. He will not be intimidated. He will not abandon our work. Baptisms, prayers, and the building of the Kingdom will continue in the Name of Christ!

In the midst of our emergency, Fr. Silouan informed Fr. Antipas that slightly over a thousand dollars have been collected to support the Mission. Fr. Antipas invites you to speak with him if you wish to help direct these funds to aid us in this urgent situation.

Beyond the immediate concern for Otieno’s health, another danger loomed: the possibility of retaliatory violence. In Africa, especially in close-knit communities, such crimes often trigger swift and severe justice by family members and villagers. When Father learned that some young men were preparing to burn down the homes of the attackers, Father Antipas intervened. As painful as this attack has been, we must not repay violence with violence.

We know some of the individuals involved, but our first calling must be to protect life, seek justice through proper means, and, above all, forgive as Christ forgave.

Please continue to pray for Otieno’s healing, for the protection of our Mission, and for wisdom in responding to this evil with the heart and mind of Christ.

We will provide further updates as soon as we have more information. Thank you for standing with us in this battle—not just against physical threats, but against the forces that seek to discourage and destroy the work of God.