Why Rev Lucy Natasha and flashy hubby are living apart

Reverend Lucy Natasha, founder of Empowerment Christian Church, and her husband, Prophet Stanley Carmel, are navigating a long-distance marriage.

Natasha and Carmel tied the knot three years ago in a colourful ceremony in Nairobi, attended by family and friends. Following the wedding, the couple continued their ministry work, frequently sharing photos together. However, as time passed, their joint appearances on social media became less frequent, sparking curiosity among their followers.

Occasionally, Natasha, often referred to as "the sexiest preacher" by Kenyan men, has faced social media scrutiny, with netizens speculating about when she might welcome a child.

In a recent interview on August 29, Natasha opened up about her long-distance marriage, revealing that while she resides in Kenya, her husband lives in Canada.

Speaking about the dynamics of long-distance relationships, Natasha said: “I believe long-distance relationships can work if the partners communicate effectively, are committed, and are willing to compromise.” She acknowledged the challenges that come with time zone differences and not seeing each other frequently but emphasized that it ultimately depends on the couple’s desires.

“My husband lives in Canada, and I live in Kenya, but we frequently meet during our preaching missions,” she added. Natasha mentioned that she recently joined Carmel during her U.S. visit for conferences in New York, Texas, and California, while Carmel occasionally visits Kenya.

“There’s no set schedule at the moment. We’re still figuring out whether to settle permanently in Kenya or Canada,” Natasha said, as the couple enter their third year of marriage.

A Childhood Crush

During the live show, Natasha shared a nostalgic story about a Japanese boy who proposed to her when she was in Class 7. She explained that they met during an international competition, where they spent five days together.

“My first boyfriend was a Japanese guy, but it wasn’t a serious relationship. At that age, you don’t really understand love,” she said, adding that their connection was more about youthful chemistry. After the boy returned to Japan, they exchanged letters and reconnected at several conferences before eventually losing touch as they grew older.

Natasha reflected on her upbringing in Eastlands, Nairobi, and her education in Umoja before pursuing further studies in South Africa. Her spiritual calling began at the age of ten when, despite struggling with a speech impediment, a visiting preacher prophesied that she would one day become a prophet. From that moment, her stammering disappeared, and her journey into ministry began.

Life in the Spotlight

Natasha, often called the “Oracle of God,” has gained significant attention for her ministry, style, and high-profile connections. In a previous interview with The Nairobian, she defended her decision to move around with hooded bodyguards, explaining that they are her "spiritual sons and daughters" and that there is no specific formula for selecting them.

She also addressed her collection of stylish cars, downplaying their significance by stating that her primary focus is serving humanity and God.

“I don’t pay much attention to material things. If it were Jesus’ time, people would be talking about His donkey as a mode of transport,” she said.

Natasha has also formed connections with influential figures, including the controversial Malawian prophet, Bushiri. Despite her rising prominence and luxurious lifestyle, she maintains that prosperity among God’s servants is a sign of His blessings.

“God delights in seeing His servants prosper,” she affirmed.