Nkubu Hospital in Meru, Kenya, was one of the sites of missionary work where Blessed Leonella Sgorbati truly excelled as both a nurse and a nursing instructor. Although many years have passed, the memory of her contribution remains vivid, as do the profound values she embodied and passed on to the school’s students. On September 17, 2026—marking twenty years since her martyrdom—Nkubu Hospital honored Blessed Leonella.
On September 17th, the Feast of Blessed Leonella Sgorbati was celebrated at Nkubu Hospital. To mark the occasion, the hospital staff prepared a biography of Sister Leonella, enriched with their own personal memories of her.
Many nurses, doctors, and other staff members never knew her personally, yet they are filled with passion and Sister Leonella’s spirit; here, one can tangibly sense how the values and virtues she embodied continue to live on in people’s daily lives.
The Celebration
Sisters Nicoletta Kiario, Severina Bucci, and Anne Kalondu attended the celebration. It began in the courtyard of the Nursing School with the blessing of the image of Blessed Leonella; the image was then carried in procession to the church while everyone prayed the Rosary.
As the Bishop was unable to attend, he delegated Father Moses Muriira—the hospital administrator—to preside over the celebration.
During the Prayers of the Faithful, Sister Anne recited the prayer for the canonization of Blessed Leonella. Sister Nicoletta spoke on the theme “the experience of healing forgiveness in the life of Sr. Leonella” and explained the significance of a saint’s relic.
A relic of the martyr Blessed Leonella was then presented on behalf othe Regional Superior, Sister Felicidade Luis, who was unable to attend. The hospital staff expressed their gratitude to the entire family of the Consolata Missionary Sisters for this precious gift.
The Fruits of Sister Leonella
The celebration honoring Sister Leonella and the Consolata Mission was meticulously prepared and observed with great passion. One of the doctors from Nkubu will soon travel to England to receive the “Global Award” in medicine. This marks the first time such an honor has been bestowed upon an African doctor—and a doctor from Nkubu Hospital, no less! The doctor attributes this blessing to Blessed Leonella.
It was a moment of joy and gratitude for both the hospital staff and the Consolata Missionary Sisters in Kenya. Everyone gave thanks for the gift of Sister Leonella!
Sr. Nicoletta Kiario, mc
