Harmful type of spirituality slowly creeping into our country

Spiritual leader holds the Bible in their hands. [Getty Images]

It is hard to imagine Kenya without religion. Most freedom fighters were educated in mission schools. Many of today's prestigious learning institutions are church sponsored. Mission hospitals are an indispensable part of the country's healthcare system. Leaders at different levels credit their success to values passed on to them by Christian parents. Even national symbols - including the national anthem - cement the central place that God takes in Kenya's life.

But while there is a progressive spirituality, there is also a retrogressive type. In its retrogressive form, spirituality tips over and shifts from a source of healing to a source of harm-from a source of salvation to a force of enslavement.