Former NFL Star To Attend Kenya's National Prayer Breakfast

Bolden is expected to headline the event, set to bring together leaders from the political divide

Marvin Chege Marvin Chege
May 27, 2025 - 17:59
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Former NFL Star To Attend Kenya's National Prayer Breakfast
A bird's eye view of a past NFL match. /BBC

Former National Football League (NFL) star and renowned American pastor, Rickey Allen Bolden, will grace the 22nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast to be held at the Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, on Wednesday, May 28, Viral Tea has learnt.

Bolden is expected to headline the event, set to bring together leaders from the political divide, with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, the co-patron of the Kenya National Prayer Breakfast, extending an open invite to all Kenyans to attend the event.

"I welcome all Kenyans to gather at the Safari Park Hotel to pray for our country and themselves," he announced during a session at the National Assembly on Tuesday, May 27.

Former National Football League (NFL) star and renowned American pastor, Rickey Allen Bolden. /SMU ATHLETICS-STORIES

The event is taking place amid economic struggles, political strife, and growing unrest among the youth, with organisers hoping it will give the nation a chance to learn from past missteps and redefine its goals for the future.

Rickey Allen Bolden is a former NFL offensive lineman who transitioned into a respected pastor and community leader.

Born on September 8, 1961, in Dallas, Texas, Bolden was the seventh of ten children raised by a single mother after his father's early death. Growing up in a challenging environment marked by violence, he turned to sports as a means of escape, excelling in football and basketball during his high school years.

Bolden earned a football scholarship to Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he played as a tight end. His performance led to his selection by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 1984 NFL Draft.

During his six-season tenure with the Browns, he transitioned to the offensive line, participating in 62 games and starting 34.

At the age of 28, while still an active NFL player, Bolden felt a calling to ministry. He left professional football to pursue theological studies at Ashland Theological Seminary.

After completing his education, he became a pastor, initially serving a small congregation in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, the church grew significantly, becoming a beacon in the community.

Bolden's ministry extended beyond the church walls. He engaged with national leaders by hosting weekly Bible studies for members of Congress and mentoring young leaders through initiatives like Discipleship Works. His work focused on empowering individuals to deepen their faith and lead others, particularly in underserved communities.

In addition to his pastoral duties, Bolden has been a sought-after speaker, addressing topics of faith, leadership, and moral courage. His invitation to deliver the keynote address at Kenya's 22nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast reflects his global influence and commitment to fostering unity and purpose.

Throughout his journey from professional athlete to spiritual leader, Rickey Bolden has exemplified resilience and dedication to service, impacting lives both on and off the field.

A past National Prayer Breakfast event in Nairobi, Kenya. /SENATE KENYA

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