The Living Water program is a vital and inspiring initiative providing Catholics in our archdiocese with a meaningful opportunity to engage in a global solidarity partnership with the Diocese of Kitui in Kenya. Through this compassionate and faith-driven effort, our community helps bring the gift of clean, life-sustaining water to the people of Kitui, transforming lives and deepening our shared commitment to service and justice.
The Diocese of Kitui is one of the driest regions in Kenya, where droughts can last for years, making it difficult for crops to grow and livestock to survive. Many residents must walk miles daily to collect water for drinking, bathing, laundry, and farming. At times, there has even been a lack of water for baptisms.
Since 2013, the Living Water program has helped construct seven dams and install dozens of water tanks at schools, reducing the distance families must travel to access clean water. Thanks to the generosity of Catholic school students, parishioners, and donors, this program continues to provide life-sustaining water to some of the most remote areas of Kitui.
The Diocese of Kitui is one of the driest regions in Kenya, where droughts can last for years, making it difficult for crops to grow and livestock to survive. Many residents must walk miles daily to collect water for drinking, bathing, laundry, and farming. At times, there has even been a lack of water for baptisms.
Since 2013, the Living Water program has helped construct seven dams and install dozens of water tanks at schools, reducing the distance families must travel to access clean water. Thanks to the generosity of Catholic school students, parishioners, and donors, this program continues to provide life-sustaining water to some of the most remote areas of Kitui.
Inspired by the GospelThe Living Water program is rooted in Jesus’ words to the Samaritan woman at the well:
“If you knew the gift of God and who is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” (John 4:10)
In Minnesota, this program nourishes us spiritually through prayer, reflection, and almsgiving, while in Kitui, Kenya, it provides clean water that sustains both body and soul.
During Lent and Easter, Catholic schools and parishes receive:
— Living Water calendars with daily prayers and reflections
— Living Water bottles to “collect change to bring about change” for families in Kitui
Families are encouraged to reflect on the calendar’s messages and fast from non-water beverages, donating the savings to help fund water access projects in Kitui.
The Akamba people of Kitui are deeply grateful for this partnership and the gift of water. Watch the Nu villagers express their appreciation!
For information about starting a Living Water collection at your school, parish, or in your small group, contact Janine Ricker>>
