Reading, United Kingdom / Murang’a, Kenya – The founder of Jesus Compassion Ministries (JCM), Bishop Benson Kiengei, has shared an emotional message following the passing of Reverend Paul Irad Kariuki, a cleric who served under the PCEA Great Britain Mission in Reading, UK.
In a heartfelt tribute posted on his Facebook page on Saturday, January 31, 2026, Bishop Kiengei recalled the bond he formed with Rev. Irad during his visit to the UK, noting that their encounter blossomed into both a friendship and a ministry relationship.
“Today, we join the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 family led by our international Bishop Antony Kimani in bidding a goodbye to Rev. Paul Irad Kariuki of P.C.E.A. Great Britain,” he wrote.
Condolences to Family and Community
Bishop Kiengei extended his condolences to Rev. Irad’s family, residents of Gikomora village in Murang’a County, and the ACC&S Church Gikomora, where the late cleric was raised. He also joined the Kenyan diaspora community in mourning the preacher, urging believers to keep the family in their prayers while wishing the departed cleric eternal rest.
“I met Rev. Irad when I visited the UK, and we both created a friendship and a ministry relationship. My condolences to his family, Gikomora village in Murang’a County, and also to Acc&s church in Gikomora, where he grew up. Rest well, Rev. Irad,” Kiengei wrote.
Untimely Demise
The Kenyan community in the United Kingdom has been grappling with shock following the sudden death of Rev. Irad. His passing was confirmed by Kenya Reading Organisation (KRO) Chairperson Peter Mwangi, who revealed that the cleric died on the night of January 8, 2025.
Mwangi described the loss as deeply painful for both the church and the Kenyan community in the UK, praising Rev. Irad for his dedication to faith and his active role within the PCEA Greater Britain Mission.
A Life of Service
Rev. Irad’s death came just months after a major milestone in his spiritual journey. On Saturday, October 4, 2025, he was ordained as a Reverend Minister under the auspices of the Ixthus Church Council.
The ordination ceremony was officiated by His Eminence Archbishop Dr A. C. C. Evangelou MBE, President of the Ixthus Church Council in Reading, marking the beginning of his official pastoral role.
Conclusion
Rev. Paul Irad Kariuki’s passing is a profound loss to both the Kenyan diaspora and the wider Christian community. Remembered for his faith, dedication, and service, his legacy will continue to inspire believers across borders. Bishop Kiengei’s tribute reflects the deep bonds of fellowship and ministry that Rev. Irad nurtured during his life, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and devotion.
