- Rev Lucy Natasha has closed ECC’s physical church at Biashara Plaza Rooftop
- The closure takes effect immediately and has no set reopening date
- All church services will now be held online
- She says the move is due to challenges with the venue
Empowerment Christian Church (ECC), led by Reverend Lucy Natasha, has announced the closure of its physical worship centre at Biashara Plaza Rooftop in Nairobi. The decision was made public on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
The shutdown takes effect immediately and will remain in place until the church secures a new location for in-person services.
Rev Natasha confirmed that despite the closure of the venue, the church’s activities will continue without interruption through online platforms. All services will now be streamed digitally until further notice.
In a message shared with congregants, she encouraged members to stay connected, remain prayerful, and support the ministry during the transition period.
The preacher attributed the decision to unresolved issues linked to the worship space. She referred to them as “venue challenges” but did not provide further details.
Her brief explanation has sparked public discussion, with some observers pointing to rising operational costs and urban space constraints faced by churches in Nairobi.
Rev Natasha founded ECC with a focus on lively worship, motivational teaching, and strong digital engagement. Over time, the church has attracted a large following, particularly among young people.
Her sermons regularly reach thousands through social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, making online outreach a core part of her ministry.
Known for her bold preaching style and strong online presence, Rev Natasha has become one of Kenya’s most visible televangelists. Her influence extends beyond the pulpit, blending faith messaging with modern lifestyle branding.
However, her rise has also drawn scrutiny. In 2025, she faced criticism after appealing for a Sh193,000 donation linked to a special prayer session, a move that fueled debate on church fundraising practices.
Over the years, Natasha’s ministry has occasionally been the subject of media attention over her lifestyle and links to prominent figures. She has consistently responded to such claims through interviews and public statements.
Despite the criticism, her following has remained strong, largely driven by her consistent online engagement.
The closure of ECC’s physical church reflects a wider shift in how many Kenyans now engage with faith. More worshippers, especially the youth, are turning to digital spaces for spiritual connection.
As Rev Natasha searches for a new worship venue, her move signals a growing acceptance of online-first ministry in Kenya’s changing religious landscape.
