GUIDELINES ON MINISTERING TO POLITICAL LEADERS – 2024

GUIDELINES ON MINISTERING TO POLITICAL LEADERS

Guiding scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-3
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior

The Executive Committee has met here at Jumuia Conference and Country Home, Limuru, on June 26 and 27, 2024, and:

RECOGNIZING that the church exists to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to teach all people to be His disciples;

COMMITTED to nurturing and protecting the wellbeing of the individual, the family, the community and the nation;

ACKNOWLEDGING that church services are attended by worshippers drawn from different social, ethnic, economic, political, and philosophical convictions;

CONCERNED that politicians have at times abused the access they are given to the pulpit by passing messages of hate, division and discord rather than building the body of Christ;

GUIDED by Matthew 6:1 – 4 which commands Christians to give their offerings and donations without announcing with trumpets and not to let the left hand know what the right hand is doing.

The Executive Committee of the National Council of Churches of Kenya RESOLVED to issue the following Guidelines on Ministering to Politicians when they attend worship services:

Guidelines

Politicians are welcome to attend the churches for worship like all other members who are non-politicians.
The sacredness of the altar should be maintained by only allowing worship practices.
The clergy should provide guidance to politicians who attend church-led functions to prevent politicking.
Politicians should be encouraged to address people or media outside the worship sanctuary.
Any monetary contributions by politicians should be treated the same as offerings by all other members, and should not have any funfair or be announced.
Religious leaders to desist from endorsing or opposing politicians or political parties to maintain an objective voice of the church. Avoid exaggerated recognition of political leaders who attend the services to prevent projecting a higher level of importance than the other members of the church.
The clergy should, on behalf of the congregation, raise any issue of concern with the politicians who attend services as relates to their areas of responsibility.
Heads of churches to maintain oneness of purpose and ensure these guidelines are followed in their different congregations

NCCK MEMBER CHURCHES AND ORGANISATIONS

Member Churches