Reverend Ndoria issues apology statement after burial drama involving priest in Kiangai
PCEA Naivasha Town Parish reverend Stephen Ndoria has issued an apology statement following a dramatic and distressing incident that unfolded during a funeral service at Kiangai Parish, drawing widespread public attention and criticism.
The incident involved a confrontation between a priest and a group of mourners from a popular Kenyan bank where the deceased had been working.
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The group had requested an opportunity to present a song in honour of their late colleague during the funeral service.
According to a video making the rounds on social media, the priest barred the group from presenting the song, explaining that the church does not allow tributes or performances that are not captured in the officially approved eulogy programme.
“Kindly note that in the PCEA Church, we do not allow unwritten tributes, and that is why I have asked for the microphone to be returned to me. I need to give the elders a chance to decide whether it is appropriate. However, I have made it clear that unwritten tributes are not allowed. Some of you will understand what I mean by that,” the preacher said as mourners started booing her.
The decision sparked confusion and emotional distress among mourners, many of whom felt the request was made respectfully and in good faith.
The situation quickly escalated into a standoff when the priest engaged the group at the front of the congregation.
The team from the bank remained calm and humble, repeatedly requesting a chance to honour their colleague through the song. However, the priest maintained her position, insisting that church procedure did not permit unapproved tributes during the service.
The confrontation disrupted the funeral proceedings, creating an atmosphere of tension during what was meant to be a solemn moment of mourning.
Distressing incident
In his statement shared on Facebook on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Reverend Ndoria acknowledged the pain and distress caused by the incident.
He expressed regret to the affected family, mourners, and the wider public, noting that the events fell short of the compassion, dignity, and pastoral care expected during a funeral service.
“The Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) offers an unreserved apology to the people of Kenya, and most sincerely to the mourners and family affected by the unfortunate incident at a funeral service in Kiangai Parish. We acknowledge the pain, distress, and indignity that may have affected the minister and been experienced by mourners during a moment that should have been marked by compassion, reverence, and pastoral care. For this, we are deeply sorry,” the statement he shared read in part.
Reverend Ndoria emphasised that the incident was isolated and did not reflect the broader values, ethos, or pastoral practices upheld by the church.
“Let it be stated clearly: this was an isolated incident and does not reflect the faith, ethos, values, or pastoral practice of the PCEA. Such conduct is contrary to our calling and our long-held commitment to dignity, peace, and servant leadership,” Ndoria’s statement added.
He further indicated that the matter was being addressed through appropriate ecclesiastical channels, with steps being taken to prevent a similar occurrence in the future.
“The Church has taken note of the incident and is addressing the matter through the appropriate ecclesiastical and disciplinary channels. We are also committed to pastoral engagement with those affected and to strengthening safeguards that ensure such an incident does not recur. We humbly ask for forgiveness, extend our solidarity to the grieving, and reaffirm our commitment to ministry that reflects the compassion, humility, and gentleness of Christ,” the statement read in part.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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