Revellers at MP Oscar Sudi’s Timba XO club were treated to a rare and unexpected spectacle when Father Michael Watenga, a Kenyan priest, made a surprise appearance deep in the night.
Dressed in his full clerical robes, complemented by a striking green scarf over his white-and-black cassock, Watenga cut an unmistakable figure.
Leading him was a club hostess holding one of the venue’s signature signs, typically adorned with witty messages to celebrate patrons who purchase premium drinks.
This time, however, the sign carried a unique message: “Padre Michael in The House.”
Watenga mingled freely with guests, even collecting what appeared to be an offering amid cheers from the crowd.
At one point during his surprise visit, “Uninyunyizie maji”, a popular hit catholic song by Our Lady of Fatima Kongowea choir, was also played.
In recent days, the song has become one of the many religious songs being played at entertainment joints in the dark of night.
The video capturing Watenga’s visit quickly went viral, amassing over 1.2 million views on his TikTok account.
Online, social media users responded with amusement and admiration.
One poked, “Amefika kubariki mizinga ama amekuja ku ‘pope’ champagne,” while another remarked, “Jesus did the same. He preached to the tax collectors. The Gospel must be heard.”
Father Watenga serves in the Diocese of Kitale under the Anglican Church of Kenya and has garnered a significant online following, boasting more than 40,000 TikTok followers.
His ministry is unconventional, deliberately reaching spaces rarely associated with religion.
Rather than limiting his work to churches, he preaches in entertainment venues, pubs, and clubs, aiming to meet people “exactly where they are,” believing that everyone, including those who drink, deserves to encounter the gospel in a welcoming and non-judgmental environment.
In a previous video shared via his social media, Watenga emphasised that drinkers are not beyond redemption.
“My name is Padre Michael Watenga. I preach to people in pubs because drinkers are human beings too. The gospel should reach beyond a bottle of alcohol—it should touch their hearts and transform their lives. I do not judge. Even Jesus did not judge. I meet everyone, I mingle with them… See you when you invite me. And remember to give an offering,” he explained.
He also revealed plans to expand his ministry to other cities, including Nakuru and Kisumu, inviting club owners to host him.
Watenga’s approach underscores his conviction that the gospel should reach all people, regardless of where they are or the life they lead.