Father Charles Kinyua, the Catholic priest whose viral video sermon about thieves caused a stir, has spoken out, claiming the clip was edited to misrepresent his original message.

Father Charles Kinyua, the Catholic priest whose viral video sermon about thieves caused a stir, has spoken out, claiming the clip was edited to misrepresent his original message.

The sermon in question was delivered in the presence of President William Ruto, drawing considerable attention.

Over the weekend, Father Kinyua took to social media to defend himself, sharing the original, unedited video.

In a lighthearted message on his TikTok account, Father CK Foundation, which boasts over 73,000 followers, he humorously addressed the situation saying:

"Dear good people, this is what I said—here’s the original version 😂😂😂😂 goodnight." Father Kinyua noted that he frequently trends due to his sermons being taken out of context, but assured his audience that he never targets individuals.

“Sijataja mtu” (I didn’t mention anyone), he clarified. The edited version of the sermon, which lasts 29 seconds, gained widespread attention.

In it, the priest is heard quoting Ephesians 4:28 and addressing "thieves," implying there might be some among the congregation or following online.

"If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good, hard work, and then give generously to others in need. This verse is for the thieves, especially those with us, na wezi wanaotufuata kwa mtandao. Wezi mmesikia? Hapa kunao? Mnaniangalia aje suspiciously? Ephesians 4:28, nataka nisome tena ili wezi msikie."

However, the original, 1:09-minute version contains additional verses and a more comprehensive message, with Father Kinyua quoting Proverbs 14:23 and Proverbs 13:11 to stress the importance of honest work over ill-gotten wealth.

In the full video, Father Kinyua laughs as he addresses the congregation: "If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good, hard work, and then give generously to others in need. This verse is for the thieves, especially those who are with us. Wezi mmesikia? Hapa kunao?" he said, before gesturing to the congregation and adding, "Mnaniangalia aje suspiciously? Ephesians 4:28, nataka kusoma tena ili wezi msikie."

He went on to quote further verses: "In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty" (Proverbs 14:23) and "Wealth gained will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it" (Proverbs 13:11).

The online reactions to Father Kinyua’s clarification have been humorous and lighthearted, with many netizens joking about the original message and the editing.