Veteran ACK Female Chaplain Dies After 35 Years of Dedicated Service

The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) is mourning the passing of its pioneer female chaplain, Sister Janet Wakilo Mwawasi, who served the church for 35 years.

Wakilo passed away on December 28, 2025.

According to ACK, Sister Janet began her service in 1968 and continued until 2005, ministering in various ACK churches across Nairobi, Mombasa, and several stations in Taita-Taveta County.

She also served as an instructor at the Church Army Headquarters, shaping generations of church leaders.

“With deep sadness, we announce the death of Sister Janet Wakilo Mwawasi, who occurred on 28th December 2025. She was an ACK pioneer female Chaplain serving from 1968 το 2005 in various ACK Churches within Nairobi: Mombasa & in several stations in the subcounties of Taita -Taveta County,” said ACK.

ACK Mourns Janet Wakilo, Chaplain Who Served Different Churches for 35 Years

Born to the late Wilmot Mwawasi and Dorothy Walegwa of Mgange Kinyasi, the 80-year-old leaves behind her siblings Josephat Mkala (late), Evanson Mwandanda, Claude Mshila, Richard Mwaambi (late), Dickson Mshamba, Basil Lewela, Gertrude Mghai and Lucy Wali. She also leaves behind many in-laws, cousins, friends and church members who regarded her as a mentor and family.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 14 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Faith Church, Migadini, Mombasa.

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The funeral church service will take place on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at ACK Lyale Christ Church, Mdundonyi, Werugha, Taita, followed by a private burial at her family home in Kinyasi.

The family of the 80-year-old has appealed to well-wishers wishing to contribute financially to the funeral to do so via the Sister Janet Wakilo Mwawasi Funeral Fund, Paybill No. 8063133, Account No.: [Your Name].

Roles of a Chaplain Within the Anglican Church of Kenya

In the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), chaplains are appointed through the church’s episcopal structure.

The bishop of a diocese or the provost of a cathedral identifies ministries or institutions that require pastoral care—such as hospitals, schools, youth groups, or specialized church departments.

Clergy who are already ordained as deacons or priests are then formally assigned to these chaplaincy roles.

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The process is guided by pastoral needs, the clergy’s training, and the bishop’s vision for ministry.

Roles of a Chaplain include:

• Officiating religious ceremonies, including baptisms, weddings, funerals,and  Holy Communion, where permitted.
• Providing spiritual guidance, counseling, and psychological support.
• Administering sacraments and rites.
• Leading prayer services, Bible studies, and retreats.
• Offering pastoral care to individuals, families, and communities.
• Coordinating outreach, evangelism, and volunteer programs.
• Collaborating with external organizations for welfare and rehabilitation.
• Managing records and facilitating spiritual events.

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Photo of All Saints Cathedral. PHOTO/NMG