In an overnight incident that has shocked followers and religious leaders across the country, five unidentified individuals broke into Pastor Ezekiel Odero’s New Life Church and Prayer Centre, making away with the church’s sacred covenant box.
According to church officials, the break-in occurred between 12:30 AM and 2:00 AM, with security footage showing masked men entering through a rear gate of the church compound. The suspects reportedly disabled part of the CCTV system before heading directly to the altar area where the covenant box was kept.
The covenant box, a symbolic and spiritual centerpiece in Pastor Ezekiel’s ministry, is said to hold significant religious importance. While not made of precious metals or holding monetary value, its spiritual weight in the church’s practices makes the theft particularly disturbing to members of the congregation.
“This is not just a burglary – it’s a spiritual violation,” said Esther Mwakazi, a senior member of the church. “That box represents our covenant with God. Its disappearance is heartbreaking.”
Other items were also reported stolen, including microphones and sound equipment. However, what alarms church leaders most is the deliberate targeting of the covenant box, which was reportedly locked inside a glass case near the altar.
In a public address this morning, Pastor Ezekiel Odero remained calm and composed. “Our covenant with God cannot be stolen,” he told the press. “While the object is gone, the faith it represents remains unshaken.”
The pastor also extended a surprising message to the perpetrators: “If you’re hearing this, return what you took. We will not pursue you with hate. We will pray for your redemption.”
Authorities in Kilifi County have launched an active investigation. Police say they are currently reviewing security footage and gathering forensic evidence left at the scene. No arrests have been made as of this publication.
“We are treating this as a serious case of sacrilegious theft,” said Kilifi Police Commander Daniel Obuya. “Given the high-profile nature of the church and the symbolic value of the stolen item, we are deploying all necessary resources to solve this.”
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The break-in has also raised questions about church security, particularly at large religious institutions. Pastor Ezekiel has confirmed plans to upgrade security systems and increase overnight patrols.
Hundreds of congregants gathered outside the church Tuesday morning in a show of unity, singing hymns and holding a prayer vigil for the recovery of the stolen covenant box. Offers of help and donations have poured in from believers across Kenya and abroad.
“This church has changed lives,” said one worshipper. “It’s time we give back and help restore what was lost.”
As investigations continue, church leaders remain focused on spiritual recovery and resilience. Sunday services are expected to go on as scheduled, with an emphasis on healing, forgiveness, and moving forward.
