From policeman to man of the cloth, Apostle William Kimani's inspiring story and connection to St Paul's Prison Church
The newly constructed St Paul's Nakuru Prison Church.
Apostle William Kimani needs no introduction in Nakuru Prison.
A few years ago, he swapped the government-issued uniform he wore as a prison constable for a pulpit robe.
But despite leaving his job, he has kept in touch with the prison.
He recently fulfilled his promise to give St Paul's Prison Church a facelift.
In 1970, the church was a modest structure that could accommodate just 50 people.
But by 2023, under the dedicated leadership of Apostle William Kimani and members of his Kingdom Seekers Church, the church can now accommodate 700 people.
"The Apostle was once a dedicated prison guard who received a divine calling that led him to resign his position and embark on a journey of ministry," says Reverend Stephen Ng'eno.
The old structure of St Paul's Nakuru prison church.
Mr Ng'eno notes that Apostle Kimani has always been a man of his word and when he made the promise to build a better church, it took him less than a year to actualise and complete it.
"For Apostle Kimani, building the church is like giving back to the prison service for the years he served in prison," he says.
On the other hand, Emmanuel Omollo, the Nakuru Prison Public Relations Officer, points out that the apostle was a humble prison officer who served the prison service for seven years.
His initiative to build the church, he says, has had a positive impact on the entire prison community.
"The construction of the church is one of the biggest and most important celebrations we have ever held, both the laying of the foundation stone and the opening of the church were witnessed by the Commissioner General, an act that the Prison Service does not take for granted," says Omollo.
The church has not only contributed to the spiritual growth of the inmates, but has also had a positive impact on their rehabilitation who were involved in its construction, and have recognised and expressed their appreciation to the Apostle.