The Jerusalem Church of Christ in Kawangware 56 distinguishes itself among the various religious institutions in Kenya due to its strict regulations, spearheaded by the self-proclaimed prophetess Mary Sinaida Akatsa, widely recognized as Dada Mary.
One of the church’s most inflexible rules revolves around its zero-tolerance policy for latecomers. Dada Mary, who boldly claims to have brought Jesus to Kenya in 1988, personally administers penalties to anyone arriving tardy at their gatherings, irrespective of their age.
Nestled along the dusty Gatina Road in Kawangware 56, The Nairobian stumbled upon the church, enclosed by a towering perimeter wall. Devotees, spanning women, men, and children, fervently participate in lively clapping and singing, accompanied by the resonating melodies of guitars and rhythmic drumbeats.
Commencing precisely at 10:00 am, the church service strictly adheres to its schedule, with latecomers finding themselves locked out until the service’s conclusion, usually around 8:00 pm. In addition to being denied entry, Dada Mary reserves the authority to mete out physical punishments, such as hot slaps or even whippings, justifying these actions with a supposed basis in biblical principles. According to her, punctuality in attending church is a fundamental demonstration of respect for the word of God, akin to the punctuality expected in professional settings.
The church maintains a clear segregation between men and women to prevent any potential admiration between the genders. Several distinctive regulations govern the proceedings within the church, including the unique practice of conducting most services with attendees standing. Despite these stringent rules, Dada Mary has managed to amass a substantial following, with her devotees unwaveringly embracing her teachings.
