Some African Traditional Churches view corporal punishment as holy and right. They use it as a ploy to see Christians on the ‘right path’ taking the statement, spare the rod spoil the child literally, and use it in church.
Ka Mama Susanna Church, a breakaway from Roho church in Siaya County, practices this act. Through the controversial caning of congregants, the church is growing influence in Siaya County.
Many of the churches that practice corporal punishment believe that caning is the only sure way to exorcize stubborn demons. They look at it as a direction from the holy spirit to do so.
“Notorious demons take a lot to drive them out of their victim’s bodies. We pray, fast, and whip those people possessed,” Ms Awino, a member of the church, said.
In such churches, the exorcism is only left to certain officials. Those dressed in grey robes and dreadlocks mimic biblical prophets such as Elijah and Jeremiah.
It is also a tradition not to allow women in their menstrual cycle on church grounds. They are considered as dirty and unclean when they are shedding blood.
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Churches like The African Israel Nineveh Church in Nyanza and Vihiga County push for locking out women in their menses. The women in the clergy are not allowed to serve or lead sermons when menstruating.
“Most women who serve as pastors and Bishops are older women. Most of them are over 50 years old,” Bishop Betty from the church.
Pastor beating congregants during a service
In response to this practice, a reverend from The Pentecostal Assemblies of God calls our these churches. Simon Muhindi, the Reverend, mentioned that the rituals that push for the caning culture are evil. Says there’s no reference in the Bible to demons being caned to cast them out.
He goes ahead to call for regulation for such churches so as to tame these practices. Says that the practice is not only biblical but also harms those who are possessed.
Is CS Kindiki right to continue pushing for the regulation of churches?
Read Also: Kindiki’s stance on the regulation of churches continues
