RHEMA Global Alliance of Pentecostal Churches Urges Parents to Protect Children Amid Rising Social Vices in Meru
By Brian Gitonga
The RHEMA global alliance of Pentecostal churches in Meru County has called on preachers and believers aligned to Pentecostal, charismatic, and evangelical faiths to unite under the alliance. The clergy said working together would help them address social challenges affecting the county, particularly the rising cases of teenage pregnancies, drug abuse, and moral decay.
Bishop Shadrack Murungi at the centre in white collar
Speaking during a recent gathering of church leaders in Meru, Rhema Director Bishop Shadrack Murungi urged parents to be vigilant, especially during the school holiday season when children are out of school.
“We urge the parents to watch over their children especially at this time when children have closed schools for holidays because you can see that Meru is leading in cases of early pregnancies where you find young children who are still kids having children,” said Bishop Shadrack.
The clergy highlighted the rising problem of drug abuse among the youth, urging parents to channel their children’s energy into studies and constructive activities to prevent them from falling into substance abuse. They emphasized that active parental supervision is key to guiding children away from risky behaviors and keeping them engaged in positive activities.
In addition, Bishop Shadrack also warned about moral decay in society, including the rise of harmful habits such as homosexuality. He encouraged parents to speak openly with their children about values, peer influence, and the company they keep.
Similar sentiments were shared by Bishop Sabina wa Mithika who noted the concerns about family conflicts stating that disagreements between parents, especially when children are present, can negatively affect children’s emotional wellbeing. She also warned against leaving children under the care of relatives, saying such neglect could lead to harmful habits later in life.
“Parents should stop neglecting their children to the care of their relatives. Such behavior usually makes children to develop bad habits which impacts them later,” said Sabina.
Nonetheless, Pastor Pamela Francis called on parents to guide their children on proper dressing and conduct. She noted that inappropriate attire among young people could contribute to social temptations and moral risks, urging families to maintain high standards of grooming and modesty.
“I want to urge the parents to also take care of their children reminding them to mind about their dressing. These days I see young people especially ladies dressed in a manner that they are nearly naked which is why I urge parents to speak to their children during this period,” said Pamela.
The alliance emphasized that Meru County faces growing challenges, including teenage pregnancies, drug abuse, and declining moral standards.
The leaders noted that unity among believers and active parental engagement are crucial to safeguarding children. They encouraged parents to remain vigilant, engage in consistent dialogue with their children, and support them in both spiritual and social development.
