My name is Margaret Gichuki, the second of three siblings and the only daughter. I serve as the National Representative for Re-Forma.global. Accepting Christ at a young age, I couldn’t recall how that quite happened, but my mum’s pastor graciously shared how I found the Lord. Hearing God’s voice guiding me to Romans 5:8, emphasizing His love for sinners, has humbled me. It felt like the hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” was written just for me since while I was yet a sinner, even when I gave my life to Christ by age 3, Christ had died for me.
During my master’s program, a professor recognized my writing talent and encouraged me to share my cultural insights. A fellow student warned me about the professor’s strict reputation, leaving me unsure whether to be intimidated or brave. Encouragement from other lecturers ignited my writing journey.
In 2018, I started drafting “Worshipping God the African Way,” but self-doubt delayed my progress as I ventured into teaching and academic writing. The pandemic brought me back to the book, and with divine guidance, I established a solid framework.
Facing migraines and data loss, I discovered CLC, accelerating my project.
Publishing the handbook marked a significant achievement. I aim to bring more of my scattered ideas onto paper.
My book “Worshipping God the African Way: A Handbook for Worshippers and Worship Leaders”, delves into preserving African culture amidst external influences that threaten our music, language, and values. It advocates for open-mindedness, guarding against the negative impacts of modern culture on worship practices. Emphasizing inclusivity in communal worship is crucial, ensuring that all individuals, including the elderly and traditional worshippers, feel valued and included.
You are truly inspirational! Your strength and voice resonate, impacting nations through your powerful writing and teachings. God bless you!
A passionate writing from an experienced and talented musician and worshipper of God. Gichuki schools the rest of us on expressing faithful praise and gratitude without being shameful about one’s own cultural heritage in Africa.
Anointed teaching through Margaret,,,,,keep inspiring this generation to worship in truth and spirit
If resilience was a person, then Pastor Margaret Gichuki would be one, a wonderful read and deep enlightenment, the book is worth a read.
Where do I even start. For the short period time we have closely interacted, you have inspired me, encouraged me, and a God fearing Woman of God. Your love for God and true worship to Yahweh is on another level. You have a purpose and as a writer you really inspire many. Blessings to you and continue with the same zeal of serving God. Blessings
Margaret you are one person who is consistent in the things you do,this book is a sure testimony of what God can do. Keep going keep writting. God bless.
A loving and amazing woman you are. Your love for Jesus is inspiring and so true. Thank you for shining your light for Jesus.
I have known Margaret since I was a child, back then I didn’t know Christ on a personal level, however this changed when Margaret became my Sunday school teacher, maggy as we call her has been rooted in Christ and it shows through her worship and dedication. Seeing her worship and praise God made me want to know who this Jesus Christ is and oh I tell you I did find him! My life has never been the same! I appreciate you maggy because you allowed God use you to bless, touch and encourage the people around you! Keep going!!
Great insights are shared in your book for ministry.
Ur born a winner n ur chosen for greatness
Great book
Worshipping God the African way by Margaret is indeed a book we need as Africans to identify with our rich cultural heritage as we worship God. I recommend it to be read by everyone.
Margaret Gichuki’s work explores the significance of worshiping God in a way that resonates with African cultural traditions and values. She emphasizes that African worship is deeply rooted in community, heritage, and the holistic understanding of life, which reflects the interconnectedness of spirituality and daily existence.
**Key Points:**
1. **Cultural Identity**: Worshiping God in an African context helps to preserve cultural identity and traditions. Gichuki argues that incorporating indigenous languages, music, dance, and rituals into worship fosters a sense of belonging and continuity among African communities.
2. **Community Orientation**: African worship often emphasizes communal participation rather than individualism. Gichuki highlights that this collective worship reinforces social bonds and a sense of responsibility towards one another, reflecting the communal nature of African societies.
3. **Holistic Approach to Life**: The African worldview is often characterized by a holistic understanding of life, where spiritual, physical, and emotional aspects are intertwined. Gichuki suggests that worship that acknowledges this interconnectedness leads to a more profound and meaningful connection with God.
4. **Respect for Nature**: Many African cultures have a deep respect for nature, viewing it as a manifestation of the divine. Gichuki points out that worship practices that honor the environment can promote ecological stewardship and a sense of stewardship over creation.
5. **Inclusivity of African Experiences**: Gichuki advocates for the inclusion of African experiences and stories in the worship narrative. By recognizing and celebrating African histories, struggles, and triumphs within the worship context, a deeper understanding of God’s presence in the African experience is fostered.
6. **Spiritual Authority and Leadership**: The role of local spiritual leaders and elders is critical in African worship, as they guide and mentor the community. Gichuki emphasizes the importance of these figures in maintaining the integrity of worship practices and ensuring they align with cultural values.
In summary, Margaret Gichuki’s work highlights that worshiping God in the African way is important for preserving cultural identity, fostering community, acknowledging the holistic nature of existence, respecting nature, and celebrating African experiences. This approach to worship enriches the spiritual lives of individuals and communities, making faith a lived and communal experience.
What a substantial review! Am truly humbled by this write up my senior.
Pastor Maggie, such wisdom and knowledge I’m one book. Quite enlightening, May the Lord continue using you for His Kingdom.
Thanks
YES indeed it’s a beautiful thing to worship God in a manner you know best,, worshipping God the African way; what an amazing peice of work!
Thank you for reminding of the deaper worshiping of God in African way
“Margaret Gichuki Gakuru’s ‘Worshipping God the African Way’ is a valuable resource for understanding the cultural significance of African worship. The book offers practical guidance for worship leaders and highlights the importance of emotional wellbeing in ministry.
Thanks pastor magy for this great work on appreciating African way of worshipping the living God through christ.
Hi good job pro, Maggy always encouraging and touching lives of many how to worship God, be blessed.
Good book
Good job Maggy
A great piece of work for them that know their God. Keep growing Maggie.
A great piece of work for those that know their God. Keep growing Maggie
A great piece of work for them that know their God. Keep growing Maggie.
A masterpiece indeed. I Stan.
May the good Lord keep using you. You encourage and challenge me simultaneously. God bless you Maggie
Awesome job Maggy… always insightful!
The book is very important for our learning to get to God’s presence through worshipping God as Africans. Read, learn and practice with an open heart.
Maggie … Thank you for challenging us to accept our culture and truly serve God
Good job Maggie
Maggie good job
It is such a lovely book, an exposition of how Africans do their worship to God
Lovely work here