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More than 500 women leaders, clergy and delegates from across the Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church (KELC) gathered at Huruma Girls Secondary School in Nairobi on 5 August 2026 for the opening day of the KELC Women Conference 2026.
The conference brought together women from different dioceses for a day marked by worship, fellowship, learning, reflection and spiritual renewal, while creating space for important conversations on the dignity, safety and leadership of women and girls.
Confronting Violence Through the Story of Tamar
One of the key moments of the day was a Biblical Reflection on the Tamar Campaign, drawing from 2 Samuel 13, facilitated by Rev. Balozi Mrutu of KELC.
Through the painful story of Tamar, participants were challenged to confront the reality of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and, importantly, to break the silence that often surrounds abuse.
Rev. Mrutu reminded the Church of its responsibility to stand with survivors and to pursue justice, healing and restoration. He emphasized that the Church must provide safe spaces where survivors can be heard, protected and empowered rather than silenced or ignored.
The reflection challenged congregations to move beyond discussion and become active agents of prevention, response and advocacy against violence affecting women and girls.
A Call for Gender Justice in the Church
The conference also featured a powerful presentation on the Biblical and Theological Foundations of Gender Justice by Rev. Dr. Elitha Moyo of the Lutheran Church of Zimbabwe.
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Drawing from Genesis 1:27, Rev. Dr. Moyo emphasized the biblical truth that both women and men are created equally in the image of God and are called to participate together in God's mission.
She challenged participants to examine cultural and theological interpretations that have contributed to discrimination and inequality against women.
Instead, she called for a transformative theology that recognizes the dignity of every person and promotes inclusion, mutual respect, equality and meaningful participation in the life and ministry of the Church.
“Gender justice is not separate from Christian discipleship; it is an expression of our calling to live out God's justice, dignity and love.”
Her message encouraged church leaders to become champions of justice, equality and reconciliation within their congregations and communities.
From Reflection to Action
The sessions were not limited to presentations. Through interactive discussions, women from different dioceses shared their experiences and reflected on practical ways the Church can strengthen women's ministries, prevent gender-based violence and promote gender-responsive leadership.
The conversations created an opportunity for delegates to learn from one another and consider how the lessons of the conference can translate into meaningful action within local congregations.
Renewed Commitment to Serve
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As the first day came to a close, participants gathered in prayer and thanksgiving, reflecting on the lessons and challenges of the day.
The conference ended with a renewed commitment to serve as ambassadors of gender justice, peace and Christ-centred service in their churches and communities.
The first day of the KELC Women Conference 2026 therefore became more than a gathering of women. It was a call to listen, speak out, stand together and act—building a Church where women and girls are safe, respected, empowered and able to participate fully in God's mission.
The journey continues.