The Understanding of the Importance of Participating in the Holy Communion Among Baptized Members of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church within Central Kenya Conference

The study investigated the understanding regarding the importance of participating in Holy Communion among baptized members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church within the Central Kenya Conference. Holy Communion, a significant religious practice involving the partaking of bread and wine following the ordinance of foot washing, commemorates Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and serves as a moment of spiritual unity. Despite its significance, participation rates are notably low, as reflected in the 2017-2018 Global Church Member Survey. This research aimed to explore the underlying reasons for this trend and develop strategies to enhance participation. Employing a quantitative research design, the study surveyed members from selected churches including Karura, Lovington, and Nairobi Central. Findings revealed that while members acknowledge the importance of Holy Communion, barriers such as feelings of unworthiness, discomfort with foot washing, and perceived insignificance of the service hinder full engagement. The study recommends comprehensive educational strategies to emphasize the ritual’s theological significance, improved communication and engagement within the church community, and proactive roles for church leadership in addressing both spiritual and practical concerns. Future research should explore the long-term effects of these strategies and investigate the experiences of different demographic groups to tailor interventions accordingly. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap between theological teachings and personal experiences, fostering a deeper spiritual connection and enhancing participation in Holy Communion.