If you’re a Christian, chances are you’ve encountered Pastor JJ Gitahi at some point in your journey. Just a few hours ago, he graced the airwaves with an interview on Kameme FM, sharing the incredible story of his life’s journey and his deep walk with God that brought him to where he stands today. Pastor JJ spoke candidly about the arduous path he traversed to earn the title of bishop, emphasizing that it was through sheer determination and hard work that he achieved this spiritual milestone.

Before he embarked on his journey as a church leader, Pastor JJ experienced a period of profound doubt and tribulation. He even reached a point where he had lost faith in God and vowed never to preach again. To publicly demonstrate his decision, he ventured to a nearby establishment, purchased alcohol, and consumed it openly, as if to declare to the world that he had forsaken his calling. He sternly rebuffed anyone who referred to him as a man of God and distanced himself from the Gospel.

In his quest to escape his former life, Pastor JJ adopted new habits and changed his circle of friends. Together, they indulged in late-night revelry and engaged in behaviors typical of those who had strayed from the righteous path. However, one fateful day, a man wearing a turban confronted him, demanding to know why he had abandoned his calling. The confrontation escalated, nearly resulting in a physical altercation.

The following day, the same man returned, insisting that God had sent him with a warning. He told Pastor JJ that unless he returned to the Gospel, his life would be in jeopardy. At first, Pastor JJ did not take this divine message seriously. However, a few days later, he received an unexpected call from Mama Julia Lucy, a highly respected Kikuyu gospel musician. She too questioned him about his decision to abandon preaching. This time, Pastor JJ cited the lack of preaching equipment as his reason.

In an extraordinary act of grace, Mama Julia Lucy provided him with the necessary equipment. However, Pastor JJ, driven by his old ways, chose to sell the equipment and squandered the proceeds in a week. It seemed as though he was destined to remain in his former life.

But Mama Julia Lucy’s unwavering faith in him did not waver. She called him once more and engaged in a lengthy conversation, passionately urging him to return to the path of righteousness. This time, she provided him with additional equipment, and this gesture deeply moved him. Touched by her faith in his redemption, Pastor JJ decided to heed the call of God and return to his divine mission.

With a helping hand from Lady Wanja and Peter Kigia, who contributed 5,000 and 20,000 Kenyan shillings, respectively, Pastor JJ was able to rent a hall in 2002. This marked the humble beginnings of his church and priesthood ministry. Fast forward to today, and that same church has grown into one of the largest and most influential congregations in Kenya, with a membership of over 20,000 faithful souls.