Never been to a Repentance and Holiness service before? You may be wondering what actually happens when you arrive.
How long does the service take? What happens first? What should you wear? Will you be asked to give money? And what should you carry with you?
Here is what you can expect.
How long does the service last?
A full service runs from about 7:30am to 2:00pm.
That is longer than many church services, so it helps to know this before you come. People may also arrive after the service has started, so you do not need to worry if you cannot make it right at 7:30am.
Water is provided during the service, and it is a good idea to eat before coming, especially if you plan to stay for several hours.
What should I carry with me?
You do not need to come with anything complicated.
A Bible, notebook, and pen can be useful, especially because the service includes extended preaching and teaching.
You can use your notebook to write down Bible verses, points from the message, or anything you would like to go back and study later.
So, if you are coming for the first time, a simple Bible, notebook, and pen is a good place to start.
What happens during the service?
The morning follows a simple pattern of prayer, worship, thanksgiving, preaching, praise, offering, and a second preaching session.
Here is the usual flow:
- 7:30am — Prayer: The morning begins with prayer.
- 8:00am — Worship: A longer period of worship follows, running until about 10:30am.
- 10:30am — Thanksgiving and adoration: The congregation gives thanks to God before the preaching.
- 11:00am — First service: The first preaching session begins.
- 12:00pm — Praise and worship: Another period of praise and worship follows.
- 12:30pm — Offering and receiving of guests: The offering is taken, and visitors are welcomed.
- 1:00pm — Second service: A further preaching session follows, ending at around 2:00pm.
One thing you will notice is that worship and prayer are a major part of the morning. The service is not simply a short worship session followed immediately by a sermon.
What language is used?
Services are conducted mainly in English and Swahili, with translation provided.
In some rural areas, local languages may also be used around the altars.
So if you are worried about not understanding every language spoken, you can still follow what is happening through the translation.
What should I wear?
Come as you are.
You will commonly see women wearing long dresses or skirts, with some covering their heads, while men commonly wear shirts and trousers.
If you would like to dress similarly to what you will see at the service, you can choose a long skirt or dress and a head covering. But if you do not have those clothes, do not let that stop you from coming.
The ministry's teaching on Christian dress can be read in How should Christians dress?
What happens if I'm a visitor?
Visitors are normally invited to the front at around 12:30pm and asked to give their name and where they have come from.
It is simply part of welcoming guests.
You are not expected to give a testimony or explain your personal life. If you are visiting for the first time, knowing this beforehand can make the moment feel much less surprising.
Will I be asked for money?
No.
There is an offering during the service, but giving is voluntary. Having nothing to give does not affect your welcome.
The ministry also rejects the idea that giving money is a way of buying God's blessing or guaranteeing financial prosperity.
If you have nothing to give, you can still come, worship, listen, and be part of the service.
Can I bring my children?
Yes.
Children can attend the service with their parents. Sunday school runs from approximately 10:00am to 11:00am, after which the children return for the preaching.
Porridge is provided for the children. Parents may also bring a small snack for their child if needed.
Do I need to be a Christian?
No.
You do not have to be a member of the Ministry of Repentance and Holiness to attend.
You may simply be curious. You may have questions about God. You may be looking for a church. Or you may want to understand the message of repentance and holiness for yourself.
You are welcome to come and listen.
Where can I find a service near me?
Altars of the Ministry of Repentance and Holiness are located in different parts of Kenya and beyond.
If you would like to attend, you can find the altar nearest to you and get the location and service details before you go.
What should I expect as a first-time visitor?
Expect a long morning centered on prayer, worship, the Word of God, repentance, and preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ.
You do not need to know all the songs or understand the order of the service before you arrive.
Bring your Bible, notebook, and pen. Come ready to listen, worship, and learn.
You are welcome.
