Church must free itself from tribal perceptions

In the recent installment of the new leadership for the Africa Inland Church (AIC), President Uhuru Kenyatta applauded the critical role that churches play in education, healthcare and counselling support.

What was striking was the call by the President for the clergy to continue offering prayers for the nation, especially during these defining moments when the Building Bridges Initiative conversations have built up.

As representatives of millions of members drawn from mainstream and ecumenical congregations, the clergy fought for equality, economic justice, peace and environmental stewardship in Kenya. Whenever the political class has been at crisis, the church has been a source of light and wisdom.

While we recognise the prophetic role of the Church and its cardinal role of spreading the gospel, it is unfortunate that some churches in Kenya have become sanctuaries for politicians and a continuation of tribalism something that has tented their reputation.

At the heart of Jesus was inclusive nature of his Kingdom-one that women and men from all corners of the world are invited to dine and celebrate.

A closer scrutiny of some churches shows leadership-governance cracks that trace their origin to the first formation and establishment.

A good example is the concentration of the Seventh Day Adventists in Nyanza, the Presbyterians and Anglicans in central and AIC in Ukambani and Kalenjin strongholds.

Due to these connections, often the leadership have been drawn from the tribe where the churches first began and this has been against the primary goal of inclusivity as lived by Jesus among his disciples. 

Lemargeroi Saruni

The writer is a Mandela Fellow.