The Kenyan Catholic Church has unveiled a new brand of altar wine, exclusively for use in Holy Mass, to address concerns over the previous brand’s widespread availability in secular outlets. The new wine, labeled ‘Mass Wine,’ features the official coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and a signature certifying its authenticity. Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri emphasized that the wine is not for commercial sale but is imported and owned by the KCCB, distributed solely to dioceses. The decision follows the discovery that the former wine, supplied by a local alcohol manufacturer, was being sold in bars, hotels, and supermarkets, diminishing its sacred significance. The new wine, sourced from South Africa, was officially introduced during Kenya’s National Prayer Day at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru. Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, KCCB chairman, announced that this wine will be the only one used in Mass celebrations nationwide, urging priests to adhere to the new distribution guidelines. The label on the wine reads, ‘The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy,’ reflecting its sacred purpose. The move has been praised by the Catholic faithful, who view it as a step toward preserving the sanctity of the Eucharist. Altar wine, known as ‘divai’ in Swahili, is consumed variably across dioceses, with demand peaking during major religious events like Easter and Christmas. Kenya’s Catholic community, comprising about 10 million people or 20% of the population, has welcomed the change, expressing relief that the new wine ensures proper reverence in liturgical practices.
