Catholic church in kenya replaces altar wine popular in local bars
New sacramental wine introduced
The Catholic Church in Kenya has started using a specially branded altar wine for Mass after the previously used bottle became widely available for purchase outside church settings. The new product, labelled Mass Wine, carries the coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and an official signature intended to confirm its use for liturgical purposes only.
Official reasons for the change
Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri explained the new arrangements, stressing control over distribution and ownership. “The newly approved wine is not for sale at any business outlet, but is imported and owned by the KCCB, and only distributed to the dioceses,” he told the BBC.
He also noted that church law governs what may be used for the Eucharist, adding: “Vigilance on the quality and standards of the wine and hosts used in the Mass is given to the Catholic bishops of the country. This is reviewed from time to time.”
Why the previous brand was a concern
The wine previously used in many parishes had been supplied by a local alcoholic drinks producer and soon turned up in shops, bars, hotels and supermarkets. Archbishop Muheria said this widespread retail availability undermined the sense of the wine’s sacred purpose: “It has become common that unfortunately, the former wine is readily available in secular outlets and bars.”
How the new product will be managed
After examining several options, the bishops approved a South African vintage for exclusive liturgical use. The KCCB will import and retain ownership of the product, and dioceses will receive bottles through authorised channels only. “This assures purity from source,” Archbishop Muheria said.
- The label on the new wine carries the words: “The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy”
- The KCCB has instructed priests to follow the new distribution rules and to obtain the wine only from authorised suppliers
Public unveiling and directives
The Mass Wine was presented to worshippers for the first time at the National Prayer Day held at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru. Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, who chairs the KCCB, declared the bottle the single approved wine for Mass nationwide: “This is the only wine that will be used in Mass celebrations across the country, going forward.”
He ordered parishes to stop using the old brand and to familiarise themselves with where and how the new wine will be supplied.
Response from the faithful and context
Some churchgoers welcomed the decision, saying it restores a sense of sanctity to the elements of the Eucharist. “It is a valid step toward preserving the sacredness of the Eucharist and ensuring that only properly prepared wine is used for Mass,” one Catholic told BBC.
Altar wine, known in Swahili as divai, is consumed in varying amounts across dioceses and demand rises at major liturgical seasons such as Easter and Christmas.
