On 18th July 2026, one of the AJAN affiliated Centres, Children of God Relief Institute (COGRI)–Nyumbani, was honoured to receive His Eminence Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, on a strategic visit that served as a profound affirmation of the institution’s mission and enduring legacy of compassionate service.

The Cardinal was accompanied by a distinguished Vatican delegation comprising Fr. Dumisani Vilakati, Regional Coordinator for Kenya at the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, and Fr. Joseph Savarimuthu, Secretary to the Prefect. Also present were representatives of the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar: Fr. Ismael Matambura, SJ, Director of AJAN, and Fr. Rampe Hlobo, SJ, Director of JEO. Members of the COGRI– Board in attendance included Fr. Elias Opondo, SJ, representing the Jesuit East African Province, alongside Ms. Eizabeth Wanjiku and Mr. Barlet Jaji.

The delegation was warmly received by Sr. Doris Ann Mulongo (SMK), General Manager of COGRI, together with the dedicated staff and the children of Nyumbani.

The visit began with a comprehensive presentation on COGRI operations, followed by a guided tour of Nyumbani Home and the Nyumbani Diagnostic Laboratory, providing the Cardinal and his delegation with firsthand insight into the institution’s holistic approach to caring for vulnerable children and promoting community health.

A defining highlight of the visit was Cardinal Czerny’s heartfelt reflection on his deep personal and spiritual connection with the late Fr. Angelo D’Agostino, SJ, the visionary founder of Nyumbani. He expressed great joy in witnessing the vitality of the programs that support and empower talented and vulnerable children, noting that Fr. D’Agostino’s spirit and vision continue to inspire the organization’s mission and remain a driving force behind its impact.

Speaking during his visit to Nyumbani Children’s Home, His Eminence Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, reflected on the institution’s remarkable journey and enduring mission:

“I am so happy to be here at Nyumbani. I used to come here between 2002 and 2010, and it fills me with great joy to see how it has grown and developed. But most of all, I am happy that Nyumbani truly is a home. It is a home for the children, made possible by the loving care and parenting provided by all the adults who work together so beautifully to create a nurturing environment.

As we know, out of a happy home, come healthy and well prepared generous adults and so we ask God to continue blessing Nyumbani with His great grace so that it continues to be home for this Children and all those in need. Thank you, and God bless you.”

The visit concluded on a particularly joyful note as Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, celebrated his 80th birthday with the children of Nyumbani. Together, they marked the occasion by cutting a birthday cake and sharing moments of joy, laughter and fellowship. The heartwarming celebration beautifully complemented the day’s strategic engagements, reflecting the Cardinal’s humility, compassion and enduring love for children while showcasing the vibrant spirit of the Nyumbani family.

This memorable visit further strengthened the longstanding relationship between the Holy See and COGRI, while renewing a shared commitment to promoting the dignity, holistic care and empowerment of every child within the Nyumbani family. It was a powerful reminder that the legacy of service envisioned by Fr. Angelo D’Agostino continues to flourish through the dedication of the Board, management, staff, partners, and all those who walk alongside the children of Nyumbani.

By, Samuel Kariuki

Communications and Public Relations Lead,

Children of God Relief Institute (COGRI)-Nyumbani.