Kenya Catholic Church suspends priest for preaching through rap music

INQUIRER.net Stock Photo

A Catholic priest known for preaching to his congregation through rap has been suspended from saying Mass in public for a year, reports the Catholic Herald.

Fr. Paul Ogalo, known as “Sweet Paul,” serves at the St. Monica Catholic Church in Rapogi, Migori County, in southwestern Kenya.

The priest says Mass in his religious vestments and would after don a red bandana and a loose shirt to spit beats. Young and old members alike dance to his music.

As per Kenyan publication Daily Nation, Ogalo’s rap songs tackle issues affecting the youth such as HIV/AIDS, food security and drug use. He also employs martial arts, drama and poetry to keep the youth away from a life of crime.

Bishop Philip Anyolo, head of the Homa Bay Diocese, said Ogalo has been disciplined “because the use of rap music in preaching is not allowed.”

“We have just stopped him from preaching using rap to accord him time to change his ways,” he explained.

The priest is still allowed to attend church services and lead private Mass.  Niña V. Guno /ra

RELATED STORIES:

Crocodile kills pastor baptizing people in lake

Priests get wake-up call vs sleep-inducing sermons