Guiding the flock: Why annual themes matter in churches
As the New Year begins, churches across the country usher in the season with clearly defined annual themes, often unveiled during crossover vigils on New Year’s Eve or within the first weeks of January.
These themes serve as spiritual compasses, guiding congregations on what to focus on collectively in the months ahead.
Yearly church themes are typically anchored in Scripture and centre on areas such as spiritual growth, renewal, outreach, unity, discipleship or faith in action. More than slogans, they help shape sermons, programmes and ministry priorities, while offering believers a shared direction for their personal and communal walk with God.
In essence, a theme answers the question: what is God calling this church to focus on in this particular season?
In Nakuru, several churches have already rolled out their themes for the year. Christ Is the Answer Ministries (CITAM) has adopted the theme “Is there anything too hard for God?”, a message that calls on congregants to trust God even in difficult and uncertain circumstances.
The theme encourages believers to confront fear, doubt and challenges with faith, reminding them of God’s limitless power.
Deliverance Church Lanet, on the other hand, has declared this year as the “Year of Double Harvest,” inspired by Zechariah 9:12. The theme points to restoration, fruitfulness and hope, urging members to remain steadfast as they anticipate both spiritual and practical growth.
At AIC Section 58, the theme “Shine Your Light,” drawn from Matthew 5:14–16, challenges believers to live out their faith openly. It places emphasis on personal witness, good works and positive influence, calling Christians to reflect Christ in their everyday lives and within their communities.
Meanwhile, Trinity Chapel has centred its year on the theme of “Transformation,” based on 2 Corinthians 3:18. According to Trinity Chapel lead pastor Charles Onyango, the theme is designed to challenge individuals and families to reflect on their spiritual journey and identify their next step in following Christ.
He notes that many believers attend church year after year without intentional growth, and the theme seeks to provoke deeper reflection and genuine change.
Pastor Onyango explains that church themes often emerge from a place of prayer, as pastors seek God’s direction for the year ahead. Once established, a theme shapes the church’s emphasis, whether on discipleship, missions, Bible study or small groups, ultimately influencing how the church operates throughout the year.
Rev Mary Mwangi of Redeemed Gospel Church adds that themes play a critical role in providing direction and unity. She explains that annual themes are often broken down into monthly sub-themes to guide members more practically.
This approach, she says, helps believers at different stages of spiritual growth to personalise the theme and apply it meaningfully to their lives.
While not all churches choose to adopt yearly themes, church leaders agree that themes help maintain focus, promote unity of purpose and provide spiritual direction, enabling congregations to journey together with clarity throughout the year.