Pastor Hosea Rono, 29, is a dynamic leader overseeing six churches in Marumbasi area in Kericho County and serving a congregation of 570 members.
However, his path to ministry has been shaped by an extraordinary journey that began long before he took up the pastoral mantle.
Born and raised in Kiptugumo, Kapsegut village, Kericho County, Rono was the second child in a family of four, raised by his devoted mother, Mary Koros.
A single parent, Koros worked tirelessly to provide for her children while nurturing them in a strong faith-based environment.
Despite the challenges of single motherhood, Koros instilled resilience and a deep sense of faith in her children.
The family’s spiritual journey unfolded in a small church, where Rono often listened to pastors, including one pastor by the name Pastor Seronei, whose influence would play a significant role in shaping his future.
Though his upbringing was rooted in faith, Hosea never considered becoming a pastor.
Instead, he dreamed of a career in law enforcement, hoping to serve in the Kenya Police Service.
However, this dream began to take a completely different direction after a defining moment early in his life.
At just two weeks old, Rono’s destiny was prophetically declared by Pastor Seronei during a church service.
Sensing a calling on the infant, Pastor Seronei declared Hosea would one day become a pastor.
At the time, Hosea couldn’t understand the significance of this blessing, but as he grew, others around him began to recognise the potential for ministry in his life.
“People kept telling me I was meant to be a pastor,” Rono said.
“At first, I didn’t understand, but over time, I began to realise this was God’s plan for me.”
Rono attended Kabokyek Day School for his early education before moving on to secondary school, where his academic journey continued to shape his life.
It was during this time that his faith began to take a more central role in his life.
At the age of 14, in 2009, he made a life-altering decision to be baptised, fully committing to his Christian faith.
This decision was a pivotal turning point in his spiritual journey, solidifying his belief that he was called to something greater.
After completing his high school education, Rono still harboured aspirations of joining the police Service.
However, a deepening sense of calling to ministry began to take root.
Encouraged by friends, mentors, and the reminder of Pastor Seronei’s prophetic blessing, Hosea started to see his path more clearly.
He realised his true calling was to serve in pastoral ministry.
Rono’s academic journey continued at Bugema University, where he studied theology and leadership.
Graduating in 2024, he had gained not only a solid theological foundation but also the leadership skills necessary for guiding others in faith.
Throughout his time at university, Hosea felt an undeniable pull toward pastoral work, despite many of his peers pursuing careers in other fields.
His studies equipped him with the knowledge and confidence to embrace the role he had been destined for.
In 2024, Rono was ordained as the pastor of Marumbasi District, a region that encompasses six churches and a congregation of 570 members.
Despite his young age, Pastor Hosea has proven himself as an exceptional leader, guiding his community with humility, compassion, and dedication.
His ministry emphasises faith, community, and a holistic approach to meeting both the spiritual and practical needs of his church members.
Pastoring, however, comes with its challenges.
As a young pastor, Rono faces the delicate task of balancing the expectations of his congregation, handling disputes within the church, and resolving conflicts through biblical guidance.
In addition to preaching, he also officiates weddings, baptisms, and provides pastoral care during funerals, offering comfort and support to his community during their most difficult times.
Alongside his spiritual duties, Hosea faces challenges.
Pastors in his region, especially those on contract, earn between Sh35,000 and Sh60,000 per month.
Despite these modest earnings, Hosea remains dedicated to his calling.
To support himself in the past, he worked as a driver, transporting potatoes from Molo to Kabianga.
This experience allowed him to connect with the realities his congregants face and shaped his compassionate pastoral approach.
Though Rono’s work as a pastor keeps him busy, he remains focused on his future.
Having completed his university studies in 2024, he eagerly anticipates his official graduation in November 2025.
He is also looking forward to settling down and starting a family, although marriage is yet to come.
Reflecting on his journey, Hosea credits his mother for being his greatest source of strength.
“She taught me to persevere, trust in God, and always have faith,” he said.
“Her unwavering support has been a true blessing.”
