Archbishop Sapit Prohibits Political Speeches at ACK Services

Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya has banned politicians from speaking at church services or announcing donations. This decision, aimed at maintaining the sanctity of worship, was announced during the consecration of Bishop Jonathan Kabiru. The Archbishop urged politicians to focus on serving the public rather than utilizing church platforms for political campaigning, reflecting a shift in church-political dynamics.

In a remarkable development, Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit of the Anglican Church of Kenya has prohibited politicians from addressing congregations or announcing donations during church services. This announcement was made at the consecration of Bishop Jonathan Kabiru at ACK St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Nairobi, leaving several political leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, unexpectedly silent. Typically, politicians are permitted to speak during services, but the new directive specifically targets all political figures, requiring them to communicate with the congregation only outside the sanctuary.

Moreover, Archbishop Sapit further instructed that offerings in the Anglican Church will not be publicized. Worshippers are encouraged to give as they feel led without the necessity of disclosing the amounts. This policy aims to emphasize that giving to God does not require public acknowledgment and aligns with the symbolic gesture that church offerings should be private and between the individual and God.

After the Archbishop’s remarks, some politicians exited the church, highlighting their discomfort with the new regulations. Addressing the media subsequently, Archbishop Sapit expressed that such measures will also apply at upcoming consecration events, including one in Nyeri County. He stressed that the church must not be a platform for political campaigning, especially amidst national challenges such as inadequate healthcare and education systems.

The Archbishop called for politicians to prioritize their commitments to the populace instead of using church services to further their political aspirations. Also, he underlined the need to expedite the appointment of IEBC commissioners free from political interference. In light of recent criticisms regarding the church’s political neutrality, this change marks a significant shift in how the Anglican Church approaches the intersection of faith and politics in Kenya.

Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit’s recent directives signify a clear demarcation between political activities and church services within the Anglican Church of Kenya. By banning political speeches and public offerings during worship, the Archbishop aims to reinforce the sanctity of the church and redirect focus on pressing national issues. This decision echoes a broader call for accountability among politicians and prioritization of service to the public, representing a pivotal moment in church-political relations in Kenya.

Original Source: ntvkenya.co.ke