The Catholic Church in Kenya has introduced a new brand of altar wine for use during Holy Mass after the previous one became a popular choice in local bars and liquor stores. The move, church leaders say, aims to restore the sanctity of the Eucharist and prevent misuse of the sacramental wine.
The newly introduced wine, simply labelled Mass Wine, bears the official coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and a certified signature to verify its authenticity. According to Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri, the wine is not for commercial sale and is imported exclusively for church use under the supervision of the bishops.
“The newly approved wine is not for sale at any business outlet, but is imported and owned by the KCCB, and only distributed to the dioceses,” Archbishop Muheria told the BBC. He added that the change was necessary after the previous altar wine, once distributed by a local manufacturer, became widely available in bars, supermarkets, and hotels across Kenya.
After testing several options, the Church settled on a South African vintage as the official wine for all Mass celebrations nationwide. The new wine was officially unveiled during this year’s National Prayer Day at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru.
KCCB chairman Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba directed all parishes to discontinue the old wine and follow new distribution guidelines to maintain purity and uniformity. “This is the only wine that will be used in Mass celebrations across the country, going forward,” he said.
The wine’s label bears the sacred phrase, “The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy,” symbolizing its divine purpose.
With over 10 million Catholics in Kenya, the Church hopes the new measure will reinforce reverence during Holy Mass and preserve the sacred meaning of the Eucharist.
