Larry Madowo is a familiar face on CNN International. He is known for covering global crises and hard-hitting news. He has caught the internet's attention for a much more personal concern: the potential of being struck by lightning.

In a viral video shared on his social media, the Kenyan-born correspondent showed off a bottle of altar wine. He explained to his followers that the bottle was a gift from a friend in Malawi.

The gift has sparked a lighthearted debate about the consequences of a person consuming sacred spirits.

The Fear of the Bolt

Madowo appeared both amused and hesitant as he held the bottle for the camera. He addressed his audience as "neighbours" and asked for their honest advice. His main concern was whether drinking the wine would invite divine punishment.

"Nieghbours, I have a question. There’s my friend who has gifted me with this…If I drink this, will I be struck by lightning or what?"

The journalist repeatedly questioned the potential for harm or consequences because the liquid is intended for Mass. He even turned to a companion off-camera, asking, "Do you want me to be struck by lightning? Say something."

The companion remained silent, leaving Madowo to ponder his fate alone.

What is Altar Wine?

To the uninitiated, altar wine—or "mvinyo wa kanisa"—is the wine used during the Christian liturgy of the Eucharist. In traditions like Roman Catholicism and Anglicanism, it is believed to become the Blood of Christ after consecration.

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According to Canon Law, the wine must be natural and made from grapes.

It is often a fortified wine, similar to Sherry or Port, to ensure it does not spoil easily.

While it is treated with immense reverence once it is on the altar, an unopened bottle is technically a commercial product before it is blessed by a priest.

A Cultural Connection

Madowo’s "fear" of being struck by lightning is a common cultural trope in East Africa. The word "radi" (lightning) is often used jokingly to warn someone against behaving in a way that might offend the heavens.

The video resonated with many of his followers because it tapped into this shared sense of religious respect. Many viewers found the idea of a high-profile journalist worrying about "church wine consequences" both relatable and funny.

The Man Behind the Mic

Larry Madowo joined CNN in 2021 and has since become one of the network's most prominent voices in Africa. He has a massive digital footprint, with over 2.5 million followers on X (formerly Twitter) and hundreds of thousands on Instagram.

Madowo is known for balancing serious reporting with a human, often humorous, social media presence. Whether he is reporting from the front lines of a protest or debating the safety of drinking a gift from Malawi, his content consistently draws high engagement.