PCEA Kariobangi South Champions Disability Inclusion in Extraordinary Service
The Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) Kariobangi South parish hosted its annual extraordinary Sunday service yesterday, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity by promoting the leadership of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The service boldly defied traditional norms by featuring PWDs leading key elements of the worship. The opening segment was led by a visually impaired person who read the scriptures using a Braille Bible.
This was followed by a powerful skit that communicated the daily struggles Persons with disabilities face in their lives.
The event was a display of ability and resilience, sending a clear message that PWDs "can also be trusted with leadership and deserve respect."
The most unique aspect was that all elements, including the opening hymns, community announcements, and the main sermon, were delivered in sign language.
The highlight was the sermon itself, delivered by Reverend George Obonyo, who is Deaf. His message specifically focused on disability awareness and dignity for persons with disabilities. The PCEA Deaf Ministry patron, James Kamau, reinforced this theme, referencing the various leadership roles PWDs handled during the day.
This initiative is part of the church’s intentional effort to create a fully welcoming environment where all members, regardless of their physical abilities, can participate equally in worship.
It directly tackles the common isolation faced by the Deaf community and other PWDs in many mainstream faith institutions, where the sacred moment of unity often becomes a stark reminder of exclusion for those who cannot see, hear, or fully understand the sermon.
By placing PWDs at the centre of the service, the PCEA Kariobangi South parish demonstrated a commitment to breaking communication barriers and fostering full integration within its spiritual community.
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