Catholic Diocese of Malindi Bishop Willybard Lagho has banned all politicians from receiving any special treatment or addressing the congregants during Holy Mass.
In a statement, the bishop emphasized that all worshippers, regardless of their social status, are equal in the eyes of the church, and no one is entitled to special seats or time to address the faithful.
"I would like to remind all Parish priests, Assistant priests, and all the Laity that places of worship are sacred, and all worshippers inside the church are expected to focus on prayers, listening to the word of God, and partaking in the Eucharist," he stated.
"All worshippers, including politicians, are to be treated equally, and no one is entitled to special seats or seating places, nor time to address the faithful," he added in the statement.
The bishop warned that churches should not be used for political or personal gain but should remain focused on prayer and listening to the Word of God.
"It is therefore sacrilegious to transform the church for any other business," the bishop added in the statement.
He also criticized those who notify church leaders in advance about their plans to attend Mass, stating that such individuals should not be given special recognition. "A person who notifies church leadership regarding their plan to attend Mass on specific days and times is manifestly an entitlement seeker and should not be recognized. Consequently, a priest or church leader who disregards this directive will be held personally responsible," he warned.
The bishop urged the church to pray for peace and reject the misuse of churches for political interests and money laundering.
"Let’s all pray for peace in our country and admonish people using places of worship for political expediency and money laundering," he said.
Bishop Lagho concluded his statement by wishing all priests, religious leaders, and church members a meaningful Lenten season.
"I wish all priests, religious, and the laity in the diocese a very fruitful Lenten season," the Bishop concluded in his statement.
