Kenyan Catholic Church introduces new altar wine after old brand flooded local bars

The Catholic Church in Kenya has unveiled a new brand of altar wine strictly for use during Holy Mass, following concerns that the previous brand had become too common in bars, shops, and hotels across the country.

Simply labelled Mass Wine, the new drink carries the coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and an official signature confirming its authenticity, BBC reported.

Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri told the BBC that the newly approved wine “is not for sale at any business outlet” and is imported, owned, and distributed exclusively by the KCCB to dioceses across Kenya.

The change comes after the older wine — once reserved for church use — began appearing on shelves in liquor stores, supermarkets, and local bars, a development many faithful said diminished its sacredness.

After testing several options, the bishops settled on a South African vintage, which was officially introduced at the National Prayer Day held at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru.

Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, chairman of the KCCB, said during the event:

“This is the only wine that will be used in Mass celebrations across the country going forward.”

He directed all Catholic churches to discontinue the old brand and ensure priests are familiar with the new distribution process and authorised sources.

Archbishop Muheria added that the move ensures “purity from source”, maintaining the sanctity of the Eucharist.

The new bottle features a line that reads:

 “The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy” — a reminder of its spiritual significance.

Many Catholics have welcomed the decision, calling it an important step in protecting the holiness of the sacrament.

More than 10 million Kenyans — about 20% of the population — are Catholic, making the church’s decision a major shift for the country’s Christian community.

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