In a statement issued by Raila Odinga’s wife, Ida Odinga, the former Prime Minister’s wife apologized for calling for the abolition of churches that aren’t run by trained theologians.
In a statement released on Monday, January 31, Ida withdrew the statement she made on Saturday, January 29 asking the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) to regulate the establishment of churches and shut down those that fail to meet the set conditions.
Further, Ida stated that a certain section of the media had misinterpreted her remarks, adding that she is a firm believer and appreciates that anyone can be called to spread God’s word.
“As a committed believer in Jesus Christ, I understand that preaching is a calling and anyone can be touched to administer the word of God. This is a fact I have appreciated for a long time and I have sat and listened to many preachers eloquently and diligently
deliver life-changing sermons.
“I remain dedicated to promoting the growth of the church space for a better society in Kenya,” stated Ida.
Ida stated that some church leaders were just reading scriptures as they are written in the Bible instead of interpreting it for their congregants.
According to her, some Christian institutions had been set up to make money while using God’s name instead of bringing people closer to God.
“We want Kenyans to subscribe to religions that are formally registered and not those whose belief systems are commodified. It is also important that we conduct training for all those who minister the word of God,” Ida remarked