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Methodist Church in Kenya Marks 60th Annual Conference with New Leadership and National Reflections

                                                                     

Nairobi, Kenya — November 2025

 

The Methodist Church in Kenya celebrated a historic milestone this week as it convened its 60th Annual Conference, bringing together clergy, lay leaders, and congregants from across the country. The gathering was marked by the election of Rev. John Maromba Mucheke as the new Presiding Bishop and Nicholas Mutwiri as the new Conference Secretary, ushering in a new era of leadership for one of Kenya’s oldest and most influential Christian denominations.

 

Six Decades of Ministry

 

The annual conference, held in Nairobi, was not only a moment of leadership transition but also a celebration of the church’s six decades of ministry. Since its establishment, the Methodist Church in Kenya has played a pivotal role in spiritual growth, education, healthcare, and community development. Delegates reflected on the church’s journey, honoring past leaders while looking forward to new opportunities for expansion and renewal. 

Election of New Leaders 

Rev. John Maromba Mucheke, previously serving as Conference Secretary, was elected Presiding Bishop. His election was met with applause and prayers of thanksgiving, as delegates expressed confidence in his ability to guide the church into its next chapter. Nicholas Mutwiri was elected as Conference Secretary, tasked with overseeing the administration of the church and ensuring effective communication across congregations nationwide. 

Both leaders emphasized their commitment to unity, transparency, and service, pledging to strengthen the church’s organizational structure and expand its outreach. 

Bishop Mucheke’s Vision 

In his inaugural address, Bishop Mucheke called for renewed focus on spreading scriptural holiness and church planting, noting that the Methodist Church has already established dozens of new congregations in recent years. He urged members to embrace evangelism and community service as central pillars of their faith. 

He also highlighted the importance of youth and women empowerment, stressing that inclusivity in leadership and ministry will be vital for the church’s growth.  

Reflections on Kenya’s National Context 

Beyond church matters, Bishop Mucheke spoke candidly about the wider situation in Kenya. He emphasized that the church cannot exist in isolation from the realities of society and must engage constructively with national issues: 

Leadership: He urged political and religious leaders alike to embrace servant leadership, grounded in integrity and accountability. 

Politics: While maintaining the church’s non-partisan stance, he called for tolerance and dialogue across political divides, positioning the church as a voice for peace and reconciliation. 

Unity and tolerance: He encouraged Kenyans to see diversity as a strength, urging congregants to model inclusivity and mutual respect. 

Economic challenges: Acknowledging the rising cost of living and unemployment, he pledged that the church would expand its social programs to support vulnerable families. 

Church’s standpoint: He reiterated that the Methodist mission is both spiritual and social — standing alongside citizens in pursuit of justice, equity, and national cohesion. 

Broader Impact on Kenyan Society 

The Methodist Church in Kenya has long been recognized for its contributions beyond the pulpit: 

Education: Running schools and colleges that have educated thousands of Kenyans. 

Healthcare: Operating hospitals and clinics that provide affordable healthcare nationwide. 

Social development: Supporting poverty alleviation, youth mentorship, and women’s empowerment initiatives. 

The new leadership pledged to expand these programs, ensuring that the church remains a beacon of hope and moral guidance in Kenya. 

A Church Poised for Renewal 

The 60th Annual Conference of the Methodist Church in Kenya was more than a routine gathering — it was a celebration of history, faith, and renewal. With Bishop John Maromba Mucheke and Secretary Nicholas Mutwiri at the helm, the church is poised to deepen its spiritual mission while expanding its social footprint. Their speeches set a clear direction: a church united in purpose, committed to service, and ready to embrace both the challenges of the nation and the opportunities of the future.