The newly appointed Bishop of the ACK Nyahururu Diocese, Rt Rev Samson Gachathi, has suspended all personal harambees within the diocese. This decision has been met with praise from the faithful, who felt financially strained by the numerous contributions.

Affected Fundraisers

The suspension affects various fund drives, including those for buying vehicles for pastors, special church days like Vicars Day, empowerment days for elders and lay readers, and inductions for new officials. In a circular issued last week, Bishop Gachathi, who took office in a colorful ceremony last month, indicated that he requires more time and consultations to determine the future of these personal Harambee drives.

Approval for Special Cases

The circular, dated July 2, states, “Any special case (Harambee) should be communicated to the Diocesan Bishop for approval.” The directive was addressed to all Diocesan clergy and lay readers and was also copied to the Administrative Secretary, all archdeacons, the area dean, all parish vice chairs, and all local church executives.

Focusing on Core Purpose

Speaking to the press after leading the inaugural men-only Fellowship and Holy Communion service at the Nyahururu Pro-Cathedral on Saturday, Bishop Gachathi explained that the suspension aims to allow the church to focus more on its core mission.

Importance of Men’s Fellowship

Bishop Gachathi, who resigned from his KDF position after being elected Bishop in April, emphasized the importance of revitalizing men’s presence in the church. “Men as heads of families are important pillars in the development of the church and cannot be left out,” he said.