President William Ruto on Sunday made history as the first Kenyan Head of State to attend a worship service at the State House Interdenominational Chapel, popularly referred to as the “Mabati Chapel.”

The chapel, constructed with iron sheets over two decades ago, was established to cater to the spiritual needs of State House staff and their families.

Speaking during the service, Chaplain Benard Njagi revealed that the chapel has also been used as a prayer hub for national leadership and critical moments in Kenya’s history.

“During the 2022 General Election petition, senior clergy across the country gathered here to pray for President Ruto. We also received revelations two months before the 2024 anti-government protests began and prayed, preventing them from turning into a national security crisis,” Njagi said.

He added that the chapel was founded with the mission to pray for sitting presidents, noting that clergy frequently convene there to intercede for Kenya’s leadership.

The service leader hailed Ruto’s presence as historic, noting that no president had ever attended a Sunday service at the chapel before.

Njagi further disclosed that when the chapel was dedicated two years ago, Ruto had promised to attend one day — a promise he finally fulfilled.

“This morning we are privileged to have the president with us. In history, he is the first one to attend a church service at State House Chapel,” said the service leader.

President Ruto, in his brief address, defended the chapel project, clarifying that the current works were meant to improve a dilapidated structure, not to erect a lavish new sanctuary.

Njagi also expressed faith that despite challenges, Ruto would one day oversee the construction of a more permanent chapel within the State House compound.