The Catholic Church, since its foundation, has consistently relied on the generosity and goodwill of its followers, with donations serving as a central pillar in supporting the Church’s mission and various initiatives. However, in recent years, a concerning trend has emerged regarding the increasing publicization of charitable donations, particularly those made with the explicit intention of seeking praise or political favor. In light of this, prominent Catholic leaders have raised serious concerns over the practice, which they argue may not only undermine the spirit of true charity but also contribute to the perpetuation of corrupt practices that the Church has long condemned.
Most Rev. Maurice Muhatia Makumba, the Chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Kenya and Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kisumu, has been at the forefront of voicing strong opposition to donations that are made with the ulterior motive of boasting or garnering political influence. Speaking out on this matter, Archbishop Makumba expressed his belief that publicizing such acts of charity often serves to hide or obscure the possibility of underlying corrupt intentions, which go against the Church’s core values. He stressed that while charitable giving is essential to the Church’s work, it must be done with a spirit of humility, rather than for self-promotion or political gain.
“The Catholic Church stands firmly against corruption in all its forms,” Archbishop Makumba said. “We believe that this type of pride-driven display of donations, often aimed at securing recognition or advancing personal agendas, could very well harbor proceeds that are not in alignment with the very teachings of integrity and honesty that we advocate.”
In support of this sentiment, a representative from the Vatican, Archbishop Hubertos Van Meggan, also weighed in on the issue during a significant event — the inauguration of the new Bishop of the Meru Diocese, Bishop Jackson Murugara. Archbishop Van Meggan took the opportunity to remind all Kenyans of the importance of practicing charitable deeds in a manner that is humble and discreet, free from the desire for public acclaim. He urged that the true essence of giving lies in the sincerity of the act itself, rather than the recognition or fame that may accompany it. “Let us remember that the act of giving should be done humbly, away from cameras and the spotlight,” Archbishop Van Meggan stated. He also highlighted the ongoing issue of corruption in Kenya, suggesting that the publicizing of charitable acts may sometimes obscure the reality of corrupt practices that continue to plague the nation.
The remarks made by Archbishop Van Meggan were delivered during the inauguration ceremony of Bishop Jackson Murugara, who is set to succeed Bishop Salesious Mugambi following his retirement. As the new bishop addressed the congregation for the first time in his new role, he echoed the sentiments expressed by the other leaders, calling on the faithful to support him in his mission and to work together in promoting integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct within the Church.
The event also underscored the ongoing dialogue within the Catholic Church in Kenya, as religious leaders continue to grapple with issues of integrity, humility, and accountability in the face of increasing concerns about corruption and the public display of charitable donations. Leaders from across the Church have reiterated that charity should be an expression of love and solidarity, not a tool for self-promotion or political maneuvering.
As the Catholic Church in Kenya continues to grow, the leaders have made it clear that the faithful must remain committed to upholding the values of honesty, humility, and transparency in all their dealings, including charitable acts. This ongoing conversation highlights the Church’s commitment to maintaining its integrity and staying true to its mission of serving the most vulnerable, while also seeking to inspire a culture of genuine, selfless giving that can serve as a model for the broader society.
