A Thika-based pastor has sparked debate after openly urging congregants to stop demonising herbal medical doctors, saying not all solutions come through conventional medicine or prayer alone.

Janet Wanjiku, who heads God’s Assembly Gates Church in Ngoliba Estate, Thika, made the remarks during a Sunday service, stunning worshippers who expected a routine sermon. Instead, the pastor delivered what many described as a bold and unusual message from the pulpit.

According to congregants present, Pastor Wanjiku told the church that herbal medical doctors should not automatically be labelled as evil or ungodly.

“Herbal medical doctors are not bad people,” she said during the service. “God has placed wisdom in different forms. Herbs were here before tablets, and knowledge does not belong to one group of people.”

Her comments came as she narrated encounters with individuals who had sought help elsewhere after prolonged suffering, only to find relief through herbal solutions combined with faith. She cautioned congregants against suffering in silence out of fear of judgement from fellow believers.

Speaking after the service, Pastor Wanjiku reiterated her position, saying faith and alternative solutions should not be treated as enemies.

“I have seen people die because they were afraid of being judged for seeking help outside the church,” she said. “Prayer is powerful, but wisdom is also spiritual. If something helps restore life and peace, it should not be dismissed blindly.”

The pastor added that her message was not meant to replace prayer or hospital treatment, but to encourage openness and discernment.

Residents of Ngoliba Estate said the remarks have triggered intense discussion within religious circles in Thika, with some praising her honesty while others criticised her for allegedly promoting practices they believe contradict Christian teachings.

One congregant, who asked not to be named, said the sermon felt liberating.

“Many of us have been pretending. People suffer secretly, yet solutions exist. At least she spoke honestly,” the congregant said.

However, other church leaders in the area expressed concern, warning that congregants could misinterpret the message. They urged believers to exercise caution and seek guidance before turning to alternative treatments.

Pastor Wanjiku maintained that her message was about balance, not rebellion.

“God heals in many ways. What matters is life, truth, and peace,” she said.

The remarks continue to stir conversation online and within church forums, reigniting a long-standing debate on faith, medicine, and alternative healing methods in Kenya.