By Wesley Omondi
VATICAN, SEPTEMBER 6, 2024 (CISA) – Most Rev Anthony Muheria, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Nyeri and Vice President of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB), met with journalists in Rome to discuss the state of the Catholic Church in Kenya. He addressed both the positive interreligious relations in the country and the significant challenges the Church faces amidst growing social and economic pressures.
“In Kenya, Christians make up around 85% of the population, and the interreligious climate is substantially positive,” Archbishop Muheria said, emphasizing the peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Kenya.
While acknowledging the threat posed by extremist groups, the Archbishop was quick to point out that these incidents are not reflective of the larger Muslim community in Kenya.
“It must, however, be considered that these are small groups of people coming from outside Kenya,” he added, referring to the external influences behind some of the extremist activities.
More concerning to the Church, according to Archbishop Muheria, is the rise of a misguided belief system that links faith to financial success. He expressed alarm over the growing popularity of the “prosperity gospel” in Kenya, where slogans like “pray and you will have more money” are gaining traction among the poor. While offering hope, this message distorts the essence of Christianity and leaves many disillusioned.
“This idea of linking faith to wealth is a big mistake, foreign to Christianity,” the Archbishop warned, explaining that it exploits the economic desperation of Kenya’s lower classes.
The economic situation in Kenya has been a significant challenge for its people, and it is likely to prevent many from participating in international Catholic events, including the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025.
Archbishop Muheria indicated that while many Kenyan Catholics may not be able to travel to Rome due to financial constraints, the Jubilee will be observed locally, in a meaningful way, within the country.
“The economic condition of the country will not allow Kenyans to participate in the Roman Jubilee events,” he stated, adding “However, this year it will be experienced in a special way in their own territory.”
This local observance of the Jubilee is not unique to Kenya, as other African countries facing similar economic conditions will also choose to celebrate the event within their borders. Archbishop Muheria emphasized that while the financial challenges are real, the spiritual significance of these events remains intact, and local celebrations will ensure that no one is left out.
A similar approach was taken during World Youth Day, where many African youths were unable to attend the international gathering due to economic limitations. In Kenya, local events were organized to allow young people to still participate in the global celebration in their own way.
In his closing remarks, Archbishop Muheria reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to addressing these challenges and continuing to guide the faithful through a path of authentic spiritual growth, despite the economic and social hurdles the country faces.
