A senior pastor at Jesus Compassion Ministry has stepped down from his role just days after the church’s founder, Bishop Ben Kiengei, hosted President William Ruto during the ministry’s third anniversary celebrations.

Pastor James Njoroge announced his resignation on Thursday, March 5, bringing to an end his five-year service in the ministry.

In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Njoroge expressed gratitude to Bishop Kiengei for the opportunity to serve under his leadership, noting that his journey in ministry with him began several years ago.

“I want to take this chance to thank my Bishop, Benson Kamau. It has been 5 amazing years serving under your able leadership and guidance,” he said.

Njoroge explained that their journey together started while serving in the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA), where they preached for two years in Gatundu and Kibia before the establishment of the current ministry.

“We started this journey together back in AIPCA, where we served by preaching compassionate gospel for two years in Gatundu and Kibia,” he stated.

The outgoing pastor also acknowledged his role at the church since the founding of the ministry.

“You opened JCM where I have served under your ministry for three years now as the church admin. Thank you for entrusting me to lead the church,” he added.

Njoroge said his decision followed a period of personal reflection, noting that he and his family will no longer serve in the church.

“I have been soul searching myself, and I have seen it worthy to step down from the church. This comes as a polite notice that henceforth, I, Njoroge James and my family will no longer serve in JCM,” he said.

Despite his departure, the pastor said he remains grateful for the lessons learned during his time in ministry.

“I have learnt a lot from you as an individual and I will carry those lessons with me in my next chapter,” he said.

He concluded his message by reflecting on his time serving God in the ministry.

“It has been amazing five years of serving God in this ministry and as I walk into the next phase of my life, may His guidance, strength, favor and mercies walk with me,” he added.

Another pastor’s resignation

Although Njoroge did not specify the reason for his resignation, the timing is suspicious. The resignation comes days after Charles Wachira, the United States lead pastor if JCM Church, resigned over President Ruto’s visit.

In a statement on Facebook on Sunday, February 22, Wachira cited conflicted leadership principles, insisting that the church must never appear indifferent to the pain of the people (Gen Z) who are demanding justice, accountability and moral clarity.

“THE CHURCH MUST NEVER APPEAR INDIFFERENT TO THE PAIN OF THE PEOPLE. ‘Woe to those who call evil good and good evil.’” – Isaiah 5:20 “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.” – Proverbs 3:8,” he wrote.

“Pastor Charles Wachira believes spiritual leadership must stand firmly on truth, righteousness, and the defence of innocent life. When leadership actions create confusion, division, or moral discomfort among believers, it becomes necessary to take a principled stand,” he quoted the holy writ to support his resignation. “THIS STEP REFLECTS CONVICTION – NOT REBELLION. CONSCIENCE – NOT COMPROMISE. More communication to follow.”