In a rare and symbolic gesture, Bishop Maria Wainaina of the Catholic Diocese of Murang’a has turned down a KSh 50,000 cash gift and a goat offered by the Kirinyaga County Assembly during their annual Thanksgiving service.
The bishop instead instructed that the donation be redirected to benefit the Kirigoya School for the Deaf, signaling the Church’s renewed caution in accepting money from political leaders.
The assembly, led by Speaker Muremi, had approached the altar after Mass bearing the envelope and the goat as a token of appreciation for Bishop Wainaina’s spiritual guidance during the service. However, their offering was politely but firmly declined.
“This is a gift for the deaf. For those who are having a hard time,” said Bishop Wainaina, urging the leaders to serve the community that entrusted them with power. “Even now, this is what we really want—to be able to get the benefits of our work.”
Though visibly surprised, the MCAs embraced the bishop’s decision and pledged to honor his request.
“This is what we want to do as we take to those kids. May it be your blessing,” one MCA said as they prepared to deliver the items to the school.
The move comes at a time when the Catholic Church in Kenya is increasingly wary of political donations, often seen as attempts to gain influence or favor within religious spaces.
