The Proliferation of the New Religious Movements: A Pastoral Challenge and Opportunity of the “Legio Maria” Movement in Kenya

Abstract

The proliferation of New Religious Movements (NRMs) has become a challenge in that members of these movements are facing a lot of discrimination, accusations and negative stereotypes due to their irregular beliefs. This may be due to globalization or individual factors such as religious experience and existential crisis among others. NRMs are growing where the mainstream faiths are being practised, thus affecting people’s faiths and the unity of the Church, especially in liturgical matters, for Jesus says, “may they all be one … (Jn 17: 21)”. Therefore, this article looks at the reasons for the rise of NRMs, the challenges they pose as well as the way forward for a better Christian life in unity. This will be done in reference to the “Legio Maria” Movement in Kenya.