The Bible, in Romans 10:9-10, invites all individuals to “come as you are” and embrace salvation. However, this message of inclusivity seems to have been overlooked in a recent incident at a church in Kisii County.
A group of youths attending a prayer session at St. Peter and Paul Parish in Etago, Mugirango South, were turned away by clerics who condemned their choice of attire as indecent. The women were asked to leave the premises, with cleric Benjamin Ndemo asserting that their mode of dressing was contrary to the church’s customs.
The prayer session, specifically organized for the youth, aimed to provide Biblical teachings and guidance on righteous living. However, Ndemo emphasized that appropriate dressing is a fundamental aspect of moral conduct. “It is not right to dress indecently. There is a certain way that both men and women are supposed to conduct themselves, and that includes the manner in which they dress,” he stated.
This incident has sparked discussions about the balance between upholding religious traditions and embracing the principle of inclusivity that the scriptures advocate. While churches aim to promote moral values, such actions risk alienating individuals who may already feel marginalized. The challenge lies in addressing these issues with compassion and understanding, ensuring that the core message of faith—acceptance and love—remains central.
