Clergymen drawn from three counties have called for enactment of laws that require pastors to undergo mandatory theological training in a bid to weed out wayward elements amongst them.
The pastors drawn from Embu, Tharaka Nithi and Meru counties said they are alarmed by the numerous cases of adultery and general crime being perpetrated by fellow preachers.
Speaking over the weekend in Runyenjes townduring the graduation of 52 new priests trained by Dr Milendas Holiness Theological Bible College, the pastors said mandatory theological training will result to better clergy.
College Principal Nkaabu Mwenda said they are ashamed by the proliferation of greedy pastors who steal from gullible members of public.
He said they had received numerous cases of pastors being beaten up by their congregants after being found with people’s wives.
Newly graduated pastors Phineas Murithi (left) and Martin Mutugi congratulate each other after they were awarded diplomas from Dr Milendas Holiness Theological Bible College on July 31, 2016. PHOTO | CHARLES WANYORO
“There is an increased emergence of wayward pastors who misinterpret the Bible and start asking for ‘seeds’. I’ve seen pastors who are living like thugs, being clobbered for misleading the faithful and stealing from them,” said pastor Mwenda.
Bishop Donato Muriuki of Christ Magnified Church of God said his church was no longer ordaining untrained clergymen and urged other churches to follow suit.
FALSE PROPHETS
“We have many false prophets working in churches preaching unbiblical things. We are particularly ashamed by the high number of pastors being found in compromising situations with members of opposite sex. Training such pastors will help weed them out,” he said.
Bishop Waverly Jackson from USA said the world Is facing numerous problems such as terrorism, influx of refugees and persecution of Christians and urged the new pastors to enhance love among mankind.
He said most of the problems can be overcome by preaching truthful messages and encouraging people to love one another.
“You are going to the world that is becoming very hostile to the clergy. Let us use the knowledge we have acquired to bring people together in God. Let us preach the truth despite the hostilities we face,” said Bishop Waverly.
-nairobinews.nation.co.ke
