1 month ago
A married father of two has been exposed in Kenya for allegedly masquerading as a Catholic priest and conducting religious services across multiple parishes. The man, identified as Jones Bogonko Onchonga, reportedly used falsified church credentials to gain entry into the Catholic Diocese of Lodwar.
According to the Kenyan publication Tuko, Onchonga celebrated Mass and participated in other religious activities at various Catholic worship centers in Turkana County, including St. Mary’s Lodaraja, St. Thomas Chapel, and St. Augustine Cathedral in Kalokol. The deception was uncovered after photographs surfaced showing Onchonga celebrating Mass alongside the Bishop of Lodwar, Rt. Rev. John Mbinda, C.S.Sp.
The discovery sparked widespread concern among local Catholics, prompting the Diocese of Lodwar to clarify Onchonga's status. Bishop Mbinda issued a statement distancing the diocese from Onchonga, confirming that he holds no priestly authority or official position within the Catholic Church. The bishop also warned parishioners and the general public against allowing Onchonga to perform any priestly or religious duties.
Following the exposure, Onchonga was charged with identity theft under Article 382 of Kenya’s Penal Code, an offense that carries a potential prison sentence of up to three years upon conviction. On August 14, Onchonga appeared before Chief Magistrate Evanson Ngigi and pleaded guilty to the impersonation charge.
Why It Matters
In Catholic theology, the administration of sacraments such as the Eucharist and Reconciliation requires valid ordination through the Sacrament of Holy Orders. When an individual falsely poses as a priest, any sacraments they attempt to administer are generally considered invalid under canon law, which can cause significant spiritual distress for the affected congregation. This incident also highlights the administrative challenges religious institutions face in verifying clergy credentials, particularly in remote or expansive dioceses.
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