The Catholic Church in Kenya has unveiled a new brand of altar wine, following growing concern that the previous version had become widely available in local bars, compromising its sacred purpose.
Simply labelled “Mass Wine”, the new sacramental drink bears the coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and an official signature certifying its authenticity. According to church leadership, the wine is exclusively for use in Holy Mass and will not be available for sale in any commercial outlets.
“The newly approved wine is not for sale at any business outlet, but is imported and owned by the KCCB, and only distributed to the dioceses,” explained Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri in an interview with the BBC.
Why the Change Was Needed
The decision came after the former altar wine, which was distributed by a local manufacturer, began appearing in bars, liquor stores, hotels, and supermarkets across the country.
Church leaders said this widespread availability diminished the sanctity of the wine, which is meant to symbolise the blood of Jesus Christ during Mass.
“It has become common that, unfortunately, the former wine is readily available in secular outlets and bars,” Archbishop Muheria lamented.
The new wine, sourced from South Africa, was officially unveiled during the National Prayer Day celebrations at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Ensuring Authenticity and Purity
The KCCB emphasized that the new wine meets Canon Law standards and will be distributed only through authorised diocesan channels.
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, KCCB Chairman, underscored that all parishes across Kenya must now discontinue the old wine and transition to the new one.
“This is the only wine that will be used in Mass celebrations across the country, going forward,” he said, adding that the Church’s move ensures “purity from source.”
Each bottle carries the phrase:
“The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy” — a reflection of the wine’s sacred role in the Eucharist.
Faithful Welcome the Move
Many members of the Catholic community have welcomed the change, viewing it as a necessary measure to restore reverence and protect the sanctity of the Eucharist.
“It is a valid step toward preserving the sacredness of the Eucharist and ensuring that only properly prepared wine is used for Mass,” one worshiper told the BBC.
Catholicism in Kenya
With over 10 million Catholics — approximately 20% of Kenya’s 50 million population — the Church remains a powerful spiritual and social institution. The introduction of the new Mass Wine underscores its ongoing efforts to uphold sacred tradition, purity, and discipline in worship.
