Why this Kenyan Bishop wants same-sex schools banned

Catholic bishop Bishop Joseph Mbatia has condemned rising cases of domestic violence in the country saying this is as a result of the lack of social skills in Kenya.

Bishop Mbatia called for the banning of same-sex schools saying these schools do not teach social skills and linked the increased cases of domestic violence to such schools.

The Bishop, who is renowned for his unique way of incorporating secular songs in his sermons, said this during a church sermon in Nyahururu.

He blamed single-sex schools for creating gender stereotypes and a barrier to unique relationships.

“For example, girls will only know what they’re told about boys and the same will apply to boys only knowing what they are told about girls,” he said.

Bishop Mbatia went on to condemn single-sex schools for not preparing people for marriage despite empowering them academically.

"They don’t prepare people for marriage hence it will be difficult for the children to cope with life after school," Bishop Mbatia added.

SECULAR SONGS IN CHURCH

On secular songs in church, the 57-year-old bishop says incorporating secular songs in his sermon is a great way of attracting more people from different age groups to the church, especially the youth, as they feel appreciated.

According to him, the congregation is always keen when he is preaching and they look forward to hearing which song(s) he will use that day.

When he doesn’t sing, people automatically know he is either unwell or in a low mood.

“I have been using secular songs for 29 years now, and this is my unique way of preaching because I choose specific songs which have the same meaning as the day’s reading, and the relation it has really helped,” says the clergyman.

Bishop Ndembu adds that since he can sing more than 1,000 secular songs comfortably, some people judge him, speculating that he attends secular dances, which he denies.

“I don’t attend any of such gatherings. My interest in secular music started when I was a small boy, and that is why I have mastered so many songs. My aim is only to pass the message to the people,” he explains.