This archive report was first published on 24 May 2020.
On Sunday, church leaders from the Pentecost Alliance of Kenya (PAK) held a meeting in Athi River, where they urged the government to allow prayer services with up to 25 members, instead of the current 15.
Led by National Chairman Jona Kariuki, the leaders argued that prayer services can be conducted safely, with proper adherence to health regulations, including handwashing, sanitizing, and fumigating the church.
They pointed out that the country is at war with COVID-19, and that joint prayers can help the nation overcome the pandemic.
"The President should remember that the same faithful prayed for him and his deputy William Ruto during their trials at The Hague when they were facing criminal cases, after the post-election violence in 2013," said Kariuki.
Meanwhile, a section of clergy in Machakos County, led by the Evangelical Alliance Churches (Eak) National Chairman Nicholas Muli, decried the harsh economic times during the coronavirus pandemic.
They argued that pastors in slum areas should be considered among the vulnerable groups, as they struggle to survive on little church donations and offerings.
"Most pastors depend on their congregation for survival. Some of them are starving and can hardly afford a meal for their respective families," said Bishop Muli.
Area MP Patrick Makau has urged well-wishers to identify and come to the aid of the vulnerable group in society, and has called on the government to acknowledge the suffering of pastors.
Published on May 24, 2020.
