Kenyan pastor beats parishioners for talking during sermon

Parishioners outside a Christian church in Kenya. Illustrative photo: UOJ

On June 30, 2026, a video circulated in Kenya showing the pastor of a Christian community beating parishioners during a service because they were outside the church and not listening to the sermon, TUKO reported.

The footage shows the preacher, during an emotional sermon, noticing empty seats inside the church and asking where the people who were supposed to be at the service were. He then left the building and saw parishioners standing and sitting outside.

The pastor rushed at the people outside the church and began beating them, deciding that they were neglecting the service. He then returned inside and began scolding parishioners seated in the back rows, demanding that they move forward.

The Kenyan pastor’s actions sparked a sharp reaction from social media users. Many condemned his behavior, saying a spiritual mentor should not use force against parishioners.

Some commenters, however, supported the pastor, arguing that believers should treat worship with respect and not be distracted during the sermon.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Nigeria unveiled its first memorial to Christians killed by Islamists.

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