Celebrating 100 years since the ordination of the First African Ministers
Sunday, 15th March 2026 marked a celebration of 100 years since the ordination of the first PCEA African ministers under the theme “Finding the Book” (2 Kings 22:8). The event brought together Presbyterian ministers from the different regions of the country in a historic gathering. The celebrations were held at PCEA Church of the Torch – Thogoto Parish, one of the oldest PCEA churches, built in 1928, and among the churches where five of the first African ministers were ordained.
The service was presided over by the Moderator of the 24th General Assembly, Rt. Rev. Thegu Mutahi. The Secretary General, Rev. Dr. Robert Waihenya, served as the leader of service, assisted by the Deputy Secretary General, Rev. John Mbae.
The celebrations began with a centennial walk, with ministers from the five regions participating through different routes. Mt. Kenya and Eastern regions began at Kihunguro, Central and Rift Valley regions started at the Alliance overpass, while the Nairobi region began at the Gikambura overpass, carrying a burning torch as a symbol of continuing the light of the Gospel of Christ. In addition, a group of cyclists set off from St. Andrew’s Church, also carrying torches, and cycled to the Church of the Torch in honour of the first ordained ministers.
During the celebrations, the Moderator launched the centennial edition of the Kikuyu Liturgy. There was also the launch of the Dr. G. Gatu Himidi Foundation Endowment Fund, which aims to support religious and peace studies at Presbyterian University of East Africa.
Among the guests of honour were the Church of Ireland Global Mission Secretary, Rev. Uel Marrs, and the NCCK General Secretary, Rev. Canon Chris Kinyanjui. They encouraged Christians to demonstrate courage, humility, and obedience to Jesus Christ, and to stand for justice as the Church looks ahead to the next 100 years. Other groups present included Alliance High Schools – Boys and Girls, Kikuyu Hospital School of Nursing, and the PCEA Deaf Ministry.
Preaching on the theme ‘100 Years of God’s Faithfulness,’ the Moderator reflected on the journey of the Church since 1926 when eight African ministers were ordained. One hundred years later, many more ministers continue to serve the Church across East Africa. Over the years, clergy from many communities in Kenya, including women ministers, have been ordained. In addition to parish ministers, the Church now has tentmaker ministers serving in various sectors and chaplains ministering in different institutions. The number of presbyteries has also grown to 61.
He noted that the growth of the Church over the past century has come through many sacrifices and contributions, including the Church’s efforts in the fight against harmful practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The Moderator reminded the congregation that while the Church celebrates the milestones achieved, it must remain vigilant not to lose what God has granted it. He urged ministers and believers to ensure that their service leaves the Church stronger for future generations. He warned against practices that could destroy the ministry in the next 100 years, including immorality, adultery, and materialism emphasizing the need to remain faithful to the Gospel.
The eight African ministers ordained in 1926 were: Rev. Musa Gitau, Rev. Joshua Matenjwa, Rev. Benjamin Githieya, Rev. Joshua Riunga, Rev. Simeon Karechu, Rev. Paulo Kahuho, Rev. Jeremiah Waita, and Rev. Solomon Ndambi.