Pastor who quit Bishop Kiengei’s church over Ruto visit launches his own in the US

Charles Wachira, a pastor who recently stepped down from Jesus Christ Compassion Ministry (JCM) USA, has announced the launch of his own ministry in the United States, marking a new chapter after his highly publicised resignation linked to leadership concerns within the church.

In a post shared on Facebook on Sunday, March 8, 2026, Wachira revealed that the inaugural service of his new ministry, God’s Love International Church USA, would begin this week, inviting believers to attend the first Sunday service.

In a message shared online ahead of the launch, the cleric expressed confidence that the new church would grow under divine guidance.

“Tomorrow, we will be commencing our inaugural service. As God instructed Joshua, ‘I will go before you, just as I was with Moses; no one will stand against you, no one. Be strong, Joshua, and be courageous,’” Wachira wrote.

According to the announcement, the church will hold its Sunday services from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at an event centre hall located along 9601 S Tacoma Way #105 in Lakewood, where Wachira will serve as the lead pastor.

He also outlined the ministry’s spiritual direction for the year, declaring 2026 as the “Year of Exceeding Fruitfulness”.

Quoting scripture from the Book of Daniel, Wachira emphasised the theme of spiritual integrity and moral conviction.

“Daniel purposed not to defile himself from the king’s table,” he wrote, referencing Daniel 1:8, a verse often associated with standing firm in faith despite external pressure.

The pastor also shared contact details for congregants seeking more information about the new ministry and invited believers in the United States to attend the opening service.

Resignation from JCM

Wachira’s move to start a new church comes just weeks after he resigned from his position at JCM USA.

In an official statement released on February 22, 2026, he cited serious concerns about leadership principles and recent public engagements that he said had unsettled many believers.

The controversy emerged after it was confirmed that Ben Kiengei, founder of JCM, planned to host William Ruto during a church event marking the ministry’s third anniversary.

Wachira said the decision had raised deep concerns among congregants, especially younger members of the church.

“Serious concerns regarding leadership principles and recent public engagements have deeply disturbed many believers, especially Gen Z, who are crying out for justice, accountability and moral clarity during this sensitive national season in Kenya,” his statement read.

He stressed that the church must remain sensitive to the concerns of the people and avoid appearing indifferent in moments of national significance.

“The church must never appear indifferent to the pain of the people,” he said while quoting Isaiah 5:20, which warns against calling evil good and good evil.

Wachira also cited the biblical call to defend the vulnerable, quoting Proverbs, which urges believers to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and ensure justice for the oppressed.

According to him, spiritual leaders have a responsibility to stand firmly on truth and righteousness, particularly when decisions within the church risk creating confusion or division among believers.

“Spiritual leadership must stand firmly on truth, righteousness and the defence of innocent life. When leadership actions create confusion, division or moral discomfort among believers, it becomes necessary to take a principled stand,” he explained.

Conviction, not rebellion

While announcing his resignation, Wachira emphasised that his departure from JCM was not an act of rebellion but a decision guided by personal conviction and conscience.

“This step reflects conviction, not rebellion. Conscience, not compromise,” he wrote at the time, adding that further communication would follow regarding his position.

His exit came amid growing public debate surrounding the intersection of politics and the church following the planned appearance of President Ruto at JCM.

Some commentators and digital creators had urged church leaders to use the opportunity to address issues affecting young Kenyans, including concerns raised by Gen Z activists during recent protests.

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