Church must regain its moral footing
To restore its lost credibility, the church must return to its core mission of service and moral leadership.
The church in Kenya has long been a pillar of morality, social justice and community development. However, the rising greed among some church leaders is distorting its mission, reducing it to a platform for personal enrichment and political manipulation. This erosion of ethical leadership not only undermines the church’s credibility but also weakens its role as a moral compass in society.
The clearest manifestations of greed in the church is the commercialisation of religion. Many preachers prioritise wealth accumulation over spiritual guidance, often demanding extravagant tithes and offerings while their congregants struggle with poverty. Some leaders even go to the extent of selling “miracles”, exploiting the desperation of their followers for financial gain.
This pursuit of material wealth contradicts the foundational Christian principles of humility and service, casting doubt on the sincerity of religious leadership.
Additionally, the church has become deeply entangled in politics, with some clergy openly endorsing politicians in exchange for financial rewards and favours. Politicians, in turn, use the pulpit as a campaign platform, often donating large sums of money to religious institutions in what is seen as a form of bribery. This unholy alliance compromises the church’s ability to hold leaders accountable and speak against social injustices.
Instead of advocating for the poor and marginalised, some church leaders have become mouthpieces for corrupt politicians.
The consequences of this greed-driven leadership are dire. The church loses its moral authority, faith in religious institutions dwindles and society suffers from a lack of ethical guidance. Instead of being a beacon of hope and justice, the church risks becoming a business empire run by self-serving individuals.
To restore its lost credibility, the church must return to its core mission of service and moral leadership. Congregants must also demand accountability from their leaders, ensuring that the church remains a sanctuary for faith not a marketplace for greed. Only by reclaiming its rightful role can the church effectively guide Kenya towards justice, unity and genuine spiritual growth.
Ayub Njuguna, Egerton University
Today, the church is often used by politicians to convey their information, violating its essence as a place of worship. The Kenyan politicians have made the church a space for political discussions and mudslinging.
Politics should be guided by the ethics and values of religion and politicians should respect that.
I urge all churches to follow the example of the Catholic Church, which does not allow politics to address the church.
Politicians should not make donations to churches for the purpose of manipulating them.
Anvic Oketch , Maseno