Across Africa, people worship God in many beautiful ways. In Ghana, you might hear fast gospel songs with drumbeats that make everyone dance. In Ethiopia, people sing old hymns in lovely harmony. In South Africa, people dance in colorful clothes as they celebrate how good God is. From Malawi to Rwanda, Tanzania to Burkina Faso, people praise God with their whole hearts through singing, clapping, storytelling and prayer. No matter the place or language, the message is the same: God is good!
Here in Kenya, worship sounds alive! On Sunday mornings, you’ll hear drums echoing through the streets, voices lifted in song and feet dancing in celebration. People clap their hands and move with joy. You can hear shakers, tambourines and even bells. Whether in a big city church, a small chapel with a tin roof or under a shady tree in a village, people gather to praise God with creativity and love. Worship here isn’t quiet — it’s full of life, color and sound!
I remember one special time of worship at a Compassion center in Kenya. The children had prepared a song in Swahili (Kenya’s national language) and danced in circles, cheering with joy. Even the teachers joined in, waving pieces of cloth in the air. It felt like a little piece of heaven and reminded me of my childhood: seeing people of all ages worship God together.
Worship reminds us that we’re part of a bigger family. One day, people from every tribe and nation will stand together to praise God (Revelation 7:9).
What a wonderful day that will be!
About the author: Silas Irungu graduated from Compassion’s program in Kenya and was the first person in his family to attend college. Today he leads Compassion’s team of African photojournalists!
About the artist: We asked 10-year-old Irene from Tanzania to create this beautiful artwork for us! “I have art in my heart,” she says. “I love drawing, especially cloth designs. I dream of being a designer or an artist. I want to help my family through my art and show people that you can earn a living through art.”
Read
- Psalm 86:9: All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord.
- Revelation 7:9: Before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.
Act
- Sing a favorite worship song to thank God today.
- Dance or clap along to a praise song with your friends or family.
Pray
- “Thank you, God, for people all over the world who praise you.”
- “Dear God, please help me to worship you with joy every day.”