In many churches, congregants affectionately refer to their spiritual leaders as “Mama” and “Papa.”
Pastor Isaac Rwomushana, however, believes the practice has no place in Christian leadership.
During an interview on Sanyuka Uncut, Rwomushana called on believers to address pastors by their names, arguing that titles should never become more important than the message pastors preach.
Calling leaders in church Mama and Papa is not called for. Call them their names.
The preacher argued that some ministers have become too comfortable with the honor and recognition that accompany church leadership.
In his view, that mindset encourages people to elevate pastors instead of focusing on Christ.
Rwomushana said church leaders should distinguish themselves through humility, integrity, and service rather than through titles that set them apart from the congregation.
He maintained that every believer stands equal before God, making faithful leadership far more important than honorifics.
Although many Christians use “Mama” and “Papa” to express respect and spiritual affection, Rwomushana believes those qualities should shine through a pastor’s conduct, not through the title people use to address them.