In western Kenya, the Friends Church in Cheptulu has transformed its worship services to appeal to younger generations. The church now features a choir with musical instruments, and congregants, mostly women in white dresses, dance and clap along. This vibrant atmosphere is a far cry from the silent worship services commonly associated with Quakerism in the United States. The church's modern approach has attracted many young people who had previously found traditional Quaker services boring.
Quakerism originated in 17th-century England with George Fox, who emphasized a personal relationship with Christ, known as the Inner Light. Today, there are approximately 400,000 Quakers worldwide, with about half living in Africa, mostly in Kenya. American missionaries introduced Quakerism to Kenya in 1902, and it has since evolved to incorporate local musical styles and instruments. This blending of cultures has helped Quakerism take root in Kenya, with the Friends Church in Cheptulu celebrating its 100th anniversary.
The introduction of modern music and instruments has been a deliberate effort to attract young people to Quaker services. According to 90-year-old Thomas Amalemba, the older generation sometimes feels uncomfortable with the faster tempo and contemporary instruments. However, senior pastor Kennedy Shiverenje believes that the modernized music is essential to keeping the service vibrant and engaging. Shiverenje's grandfather was the first pastor of the Cheptulu church, and he notes that silent worship, common in the US, may not have resonated with his grandfather.
The Friends Theological College in Kaimosi has played a crucial role in training Quaker ministers and ensuring that the correct message is taught to congregations. With over 400 students on campus and online, the college has become a hub for Quaker education in East Africa. Principal Robert Wafula emphasizes the importance of pastoral ministers in modern times, particularly in promoting peace and resolving conflicts. Quaker doctrine, founded on peace, has been instrumental in promoting peace in Kenya and other regional conflicts.
The Quaker Archive program at the Friends Theological College preserves the history of Quakerism in Kenya, including an old Bible written in the local Maragoli language. Researchers have also spoken to early Quakers and obtained material from early yearly meetings to create a reference point for young people. However, some older Quakers, like Amalemba, worry that the emphasis on congregants giving money in church creates a sense that they are "buying blessings."
Despite these challenges, the modernized Quaker services in Kenya have attracted many young people who had previously shunned the church. Catherine Ikalakala, a Quaker for almost 50 years, remembers when young people avoided Quaker services due to their slow tempo. However, with the introduction of a keyboard and modern music, young people are now actively participating in worship services. The church's efforts to adapt to changing times have ensured its continued relevance in Kenyan society.
As the Quaker community in Kenya continues to evolve, it faces new challenges, including fundraising for programs and maintaining its dignity as a Quaker institution. However, with its emphasis on peace, music, and community, Quakerism remains a vibrant and relevant faith in Kenya. The church's ability to adapt to changing times while staying true to its core values will be crucial in ensuring its continued growth and influence in the region.
Key points
- Kenyan Quakers have modernized their worship services with music and dance to attract younger generations.
- The Friends Theological College in Kaimosi plays a crucial role in training Quaker ministers and promoting peace in East Africa.
- Quakerism in Kenya has evolved to incorporate local musical styles and instruments, while staying true to its core values of peace and community.
