Image: Instagram
For Christians, the church is meant to be a sanctuary, especially during challenging times. However, media personality Willis Raburu found it to be quite the opposite.
He recently opened up about how the church's ignorance and outdated practices not only strained his relationship with the institution but also with God.
Willis recounted how he was once a prominent figure in his church, taking on significant roles and being highly regarded.
But everything changed after his divorce from his ex-wife, Marya Prude. "When you’ve been actively involved in the church, raising your hands, sitting behind the pastor, and then go through a divorce, the church looks at you differently. It’s as if you’re no longer acceptable because they’ve seen you as part of a relationship, and that’s what they stand for," he said.
He felt like he was suddenly cast out.
Image: COURTESY
Willis clarified that his issue wasn’t with the church itself but with its governing model.
"I don’t think JCC as a church hurt me, but the model—the notion that God hates divorce—definitely did," he explained during his guest appearance on Dr. Ofweneke's 'Lessons @30' YouTube segment.
He criticized the rigid interpretation of this clause, saying, "People cling to this 'contract' without understanding its context.
At that time, Jews were abandoning their wives without support. That’s the context of that statement."
In addition to his divorce, Willis also faced the devastating loss of his daughter, who was pronounced dead shortly after birth.
He revealed that he struggled with severe depression and contemplated suicide as he grappled with the immense pain.
"I contemplated suicide because every time I thought about my daughter, I felt that joining her was the only way to be with her," he shared.
He went through periods of deep despair, and his therapist even had to intervene, prompting others to check on him. "We took a break for a while, God and me. But now, we’re fine," he concluded.
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Counselors, medics, and psychologists advise that you can always reach out for help when experiencing any mental health issues. Call Kenya Red Cross toll-free hotline, 1199 for support.
