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Nairobi
The Catholic Church in Kenya has introduced a new brand of altar wine for Holy Mass after the previous one became widely available in local bars and shops, raising concerns over its sanctity.
Simply labelled Mass Wine, the new sacramental drink bears the official coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and a signature certifying its authenticity.
“The newly approved wine is not for sale at any business outlet. It is imported, owned by the KCCB, and distributed only to dioceses,” Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri said.
The decision follows growing unease among Catholic faithful that the previous brand—distributed by a local alcohol manufacturer—had lost its sacred significance due to its commercial circulation in bars, hotels, and supermarkets.
According to Archbishop Muheria, the Catholic Church’s Canon Law regulates the composition and purity of altar wine.
“Vigilance on the quality and standards of the wine and hosts used in Mass is the responsibility of the bishops. This is reviewed from time to time,” he said.
After evaluating several options, the Church settled on a South African vintage, which was officially unveiled during this year’s National Prayer Day at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru.
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, KCCB chairman, announced that Mass Wine would now be the only approved altar wine used across all Catholic churches in Kenya.
“This assures purity from source,” Archbishop Muheria added.
The label on the new bottle reads: “The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy,” reflecting its sacred purpose.
Commonly known as divai in Swahili, altar wine use varies across dioceses depending on liturgical seasons, with demand peaking during Easter, Christmas, and other major celebrations.
Many Catholics have welcomed the move, saying it restores reverence to the Eucharist.
“It’s a valid step toward preserving the sacredness of the Mass and ensuring only properly prepared wine is used,” one parishioner told the BBC.
Kenya’s population is about 50 million, with more than 80% identifying as Christian. Catholics make up roughly 10 million—about 20% of the total population.
Torch Media Africa
