Clergymen seeking to pursue theology related courses in Murang’a and surrounding counties have been reprieved after Pioneer University launched a school of divinity.
The university will be offering a post graduate diploma in transformational church administration and will be beneficial to church leaders aiming at bettering their management skills to effectively run religious institutions.
Vice Chancellor Gideon Maina said the programme is rooted in the teachings of the church but that it will incorporate other disciplines such as sociology, psychology and environmental studies to broaden learners’ perspectives.
“It will provide members of the clergy with leadership skills that will help them resolve conflicts faced by congregants and the general community. It will equip them with transformational skills of fostering community, spiritual growth and social justice,” Maina said.
He hailed the course as innovative and designed to integrate principles of synodality that include shared decision making, collaboration and inclusivity with effective church leadership and management.
With many religious institutions facing numerous wrangles in the country, Maina said the course will ensure learners engage in collaborative leadership and application of principles that honour the dignity and contributions of every member of the church.
In 2023, authorities uncovered a mass tragedy in Shakahola Forest, Kilifi county, where over 400 bodies were recovered after worshippers affiliated to the Good News International Ministries starved to death.
The church’s leader Paul Mackenzie and 29 others were charged in court and pleaded not guilty to numerous counts of murder, terrorism, child torture and cruelty and illegal film distribution among others.
Just last month, a multi-agency team raided the St Joseph Mission of Messiah church in Rongo, Migori county, and rescued 57 members said to have been brainwashed.
But the vice chancellor said with the proper training, church leaders will be facilitated to properly run their establishments and enable them to handle emerging needs.
“In an era characterised by rapid technological advancements, shifting cultural paradigms and complex global challenges, the role of theology and spiritual reflection in higher education has never been more critical.”
“The establishment of the School of Divinity at Pioneer University is our response to these pressing needs. It’s a space where faith meets reason, tradition engages with innovation and spirituality dialogues with contemporary issues,” he added.
The VC said with the dynamic academic landscape diversifying, Divinity schools serves as custodians of moral and ethical discourse that offer insights that transcend empirical data and delve into the human condition’s deeper questions.
The university’s Chancellor Peter Munga said the programme will be of great help to local church leaders willing to advance their studies without travelling far distances.
“It’s important for church leaders to expand their knowledge to effectively manage their churches and now they will do so within the areas they serve,” he said.
Munga said through transformational leadership the nation can grow to greater heights in church administration and leadership.
Mt Kenya Central ACK Diocese Bishop Dr Timothy Gichere who was the chief guest said having a well-equipped church leader ensures the society runs smoothly.
“Just like any leader, a church leader faces challenges in resolving issues facing members and especially the youths. Equipping them has a major impact even in the growth of the economy,” the bishop said.
