Christians in the City of Nairobi

As lively and fast-paced as the city itself, this book introduces the Christian people, religious movements and church buildings that contribute to life in East Africa’s economic hub. Shaw and Mugambi bring to the page the immediacy of varied and vibrant scenes without neglecting the contentious and challenging aspects of contemporary Christianity in Nairobi. * Emma Wild-Wood, University of Edinburgh, UK *
A comprehensive and illuminating survey of the multiple forms of Christianity so evident in Nairobi today, with their historical development and strengths and appeal to particular ages and groups. Thoroughly recommended. * Paul Gifford, SOAS, UK *
In here you will find deeply evocative, ‘bottom-up’ stories of the re-sacralization of a secular space by diverse expressions of religiosity that populate the Nairobi urbanscape. From constancy and continuity, to change and fluidity reminiscent of the Christian faith in its two thousand year history. This book invites fresh engagement with the city employing questions of alienation and marginality, belonging and identity, and ultimately, life and hope. * Wanjiru M Gitau, Palm Beach Atlantic University, USA *
Christianity has increasingly become an African and an urban phenomenon. That is why Christians in the City of Nairobi is timely and important. It offers a rich and fascinating insight into the manifestations of Christianity in one of Africa’s fastest growing cities, Nairobi, and its role in public life. * Adriaan van Klinken, University of Leeds, UK *
Christians in the City of Nairobi is an insightful read. Mark Shaw and Kyama Mugambi provide interesting perspectives for anyone seeking to understand the rich history and diverse expressions of Christianity in Nairobi. In tracing these different journeys through history, this book reveals the stories and characters that reflect the heart of Kenyan Christians. * Pastor John Paul Mugendi, Karen Community Church, Kenya *
Mugambi and Shaw bring to life the history of Nairobi, interweaving striking vignettes and perceptive analysis, to reveal the soul of the city in its deep, enduring, multi-faceted religiosity amid rapid secularization. With wide appeal, the authors narrate the colorful, complex story of Christianity in this city as a new vital center of global Christian pluralism, offering insight for re-sacralizing secular spaces elsewhere. * Diane Stinton, Regent College, USA *
Drawing on historic perspectives and contemporary ethnography, Mugambi and Shaw take us on a dizzying ride through the teeming urban landscape of Christian expressions in Nairobi. Their thrilling portrait of ardent faith in a pluralistic setting offers bold and surprising insights into new aspects of missionary Christianity, the generative power of newer churches, and the impact of women and youth. * Michèle Sigg, Boston University School of Theology, USA *