There's nothing quite like a Sunday afternoon spent at a café with friends after church, meeting new people while enjoying the soothing tunes of a live band that creates a peaceful, reflective, atmosphere.

Today, Agora Milimani hosted the Praise Cafe Live, an event where attendees played games, engaged in conversations with old and new friends and enjoyed Christian music from various bands.

Lorraine and the band performing during the Praise Cafe at Agora Milimani on September 1, 2024.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

The intimate and relaxed setting was perfect for a Sunday afternoon, with soft conversations blending seamlessly with the melodies.

Ben Karimi, the event curator, shares with Mtaa Wangu that the Praise Cafe Live was designed to offer people the experience of a typical café hangout but with a focus on Christian music.

Ben Karimi the Praise Cafe curator during an interview in Agora on September 1, 2024.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

"We chose Christian music intentionally because it's rare to find a café that plays it. We've been hosting these after-church hangouts for eight years now," he explains.

Karimi also mentions plans to increase the frequency of the event due to the growing demand in Nakuru.

"We’re considering making this more than an annual event because we've seen how much people appreciate it and are willing to come out for it," he adds.

Ishmael Too, a first-time attendee, expresses his appreciation for the event, noting that it was the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon, which is often spent idly.

Ishmael Too during an interview at Agora on September 1, 2024.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

"After church, many people just go home and do nothing, waiting for Monday. Events like this offer a chance to spend reflective time with friends," he says.

He also highlights how attendees enjoyed spiritually uplifting, Biblically-themed original Gospel music alongside the fun and games.

Rachel Mihari, who typically attends the event in Nairobi, praised the platform for its ability to engage the youth, drawing them closer to the word of God in a fun and interactive way.

Rachel Mihari after the Praise Cafe at Agora Milimani on September 1,2024.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

She emphasizes the need for more such events, especially after making new friends and connecting with others who share her faith.

Serah Muraya was pleasantly surprised by the number of young people who attended the event, noting how it challenges the misconception that following Christ means a dull life.

Serah Muraya after Praise Cafe at Agora Milimani during an interview on September 1, 2024.

Photo credit: MUTHONI WANJIKU/MTAA WANGU

"Young people are passionate about the gospel, and they’re showing that it doesn’t have to be boring," she remarks.

She also mentions how her friends learned a new game 'hit the deck', something they might not have discovered if they hadn’t attended the event.

Christian youth gather at Agora for an afternoon of gospel music and fun

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Muthoni Wanjiku