The Catholic Church in Kenya has launched a new altar wine reserved strictly for Holy Mass.
The move aims to prevent misuse after the previous brand became common in shops and bars.
The Catholic Church in Kenya has introduced a new brand of altar wine exclusively for Holy Mass, after concerns that the previous brand had become widely available in bars, hotels, and shops across the country.
Known simply as “Mass Wine,” the new product bears the official coat of arms of the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) and a signed mark verifying its authenticity.
Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri explained that the new wine “is not for public sale” and will be imported, owned, and distributed solely by the KCCB to all dioceses nationwide.
The decision followed reports that the former altar wine, once used only for church services, had begun appearing in liquor stores and other commercial outlets, a trend that many faithful said undermined its spiritual value.
After evaluating several options, the bishops approved a South African variety, which was officially unveiled during the National Prayer Day at the Subukia National Marian Shrine in Nakuru.
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, who chairs the KCCB, stated during the event that this will now be “the only wine used in Mass celebrations across Kenya.”
He instructed all parishes to stop using the old brand and ensure that priests are familiar with the new distribution procedures and authorised sources.
Archbishop Muheria added that the change guarantees “purity from source,” helping to uphold the sanctity of the Eucharist.
The bottle carries an inscription reading, “The fruit of the vine and the work of human hands will become our cup of joy,” symbolizing its sacred purpose.
Many Catholics have welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a vital measure to safeguard the reverence of Holy Communion.
