PHD-Philosophy and Religious Studies Department

Permanent URI for this community

https://repository.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/157

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 41

A moral response to the conflict of interests between humans and non human nature
(2002) Makokha, Tadayo Kibaba
Environmental protection and care is increasingly becoming a major pre-occupation of many scholars and various fields of intellectual pursuit. This is mainly prompted by the current environmental crisis occasioned mainly by soaring human populations and increased capacity by human beings to interfere with the natural processes. This increased interference with nature has precipitated unprecedented increase in pollution in various forms, destruction of forests, problems of disposal of toxic wastes and garbage, extinction of both plant and animal species and so on. Thus, human beings have become pervasive, overwhelming and abusive to the natural environment. This raises serious ethical concerns in particular; we discern serious conflict between humanity and nonhuman nature. It is against this backdrop that this study set out to argue for a moral intervention to the environmental crisis. The study is premised on the centrality of morality in harmonization of relationships, as exemplified in human relationships. The present study has endeavoured to demonstrate that ethical relationships transcend human to human to include the human to nonhuman nature category. Hence, the question of conflict applies to human to nonhuman nature relationship in as much as it does to human relationships. The central thesis of the study is anchored on the moral standing of nonhuman nature; the view that nonhuman beings have a value of their own, upon which their interests and well-being are predicated. It is on the basis of this that we have argued for the extension of moral considerability to nonhuman nature. We have also endeavoured to concretise our thesis within the specific context of an African worldview to test the validity of some of our arguments. Specifically, a reconstruction of Bukusu environmental ethical values gathered through intensive oral emphasizing the unique place of humanity in nature. Thus, the ensuing ethic is in pursuit of principles aimed at achieving ecological balance and harmony. This is perfectly in line viii with one of the central functions of morality, namely, harmonizing relationships. In addition, these findings perfectly fit into and reinforce the conceptual paradigm of ecosustainability, identified, clarified and argued for in this thesis. In sum, the thesis is structured as follows: Chapter one outlines the general introduction, purpose, and scope of the study. Chapter two, explores the centrality of the institution of morality in relationships involving humans, setting the ground for the central thesis of this study, namely, to invoke moral reasoning and guidance in attempt to surmount conflicts between humans and nonhuman nature. Chapter three endeavours to clarify the problematic and controversial question of the basis of moral concern for nonhuman nature, thus grounding moral intervention in human - nonhuman nature relationship. Chapter four, by way of exemplification reconstructs Bukusu environmental values as a way of concretising some of the central arguments of the study and as a contribution towards an understanding or theory of environmental ethics. Chapter five on the other hand interrogates prevailing theoretical formulations in environmental ethics, with the view to showing their weaknesses in articulating human - nonhuman nature relationship. Then we present our considered conceptual framework of ecosustainability as this study's contribution towards an understanding of environmental ethics. Chapter six in a recap, attempts self - assessment particularly in the light of the objectives and assumptions of the study. summarizes and concludes the main arguments of the study, with a final note on the recommendations and the way forward
Factors that hinder women's participation in theological education in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2004) James, Ruth Muthei
This study identifies and discusses factors that hinder women's participation in theological education in Kenya. Reference is made to theological institutions that belong to two church traditions, namely, the main line protestant and evangelical traditions. The study seeks to address the paradox of under representation of women in institutions that have openings for them. The objectives of the study are; To analyze the status of women in the history of Christianity since its inception, to identify and assess the modalities applied in admitting women into theological institutions in Kenya, to identify and discuss factors that influence women's experiences in theological institutions in Kenya, and, to identify and evaluate strategies that could enhance the participation of women in theological education in Kenya. To achieve the above objectives, ten theological institutions have been selected on the basis of their church affiliations as well as the academic programs they offer. The study concentrates on institutions that offer diploma, bachelors and masters programs. The significance of these programmes is that the institutions that offer them are interdenominational and the fact that churches in the study only ordain persons that are trained at diploma level and above. The mam argument of this study is that women are under represented in theological education in Kenya. This has been authenticated by the examination of the actual numbers of women students and faculty in theological institutions. Their numbers are much lower than those of men, a factor that has been attributed to the attitude of churches toward theological education for women and the type of ministries open to women in the churches. The entire study portrays women in a struggle to venture into theological education. The struggle begins with their access to theological institutions. Once enrolled, they struggle through college life with administrative and social structures that are unfavourable to them. After graduating from college, women struggle with job placement as well as acceptance by those they are to serve. The study identifies three main factors that hinder women's access to and their experiences in theological institutions. They are; The structures of theological institutions, policies of churches that sponsor theological institutions, and, African culture. It has been confirmed in this study that churches have a direct and powerful influence in the enrolment of students, appointment of teaching staff, as well as the formulation of the curricula taught. Consequently, a church's view of the status and role of women in its ministry influences their enrolment in theological institutions. This study employs the concepts of the 'lenses of gender' theory by Sandra Bem (1993). The lenses are; androcentrism, gender polarization and biological essentialism: The analysis establishes that the characteristics exhibited by the three lenses interact to reproduce male power in human institutions. In such setups, females and males are channeled into different and unequal life situations with the females being relegated to the subordinate sphere and the males to the super ordinate sphere. Finally, the study offers suggestions 111 form of strategies that could enhance women's participation 111 theological education. They are; Advocacy, transformation of the structures of theological institutions and churches, and, the revision of the curricula of theological institutions. Networking among women and between women and men in theological studies and in the church has also been advanced as a strategy.
Women religious leaders as actors in ethnic conflict management and resolution in Nakuru and Uasin Gishu districts, Kenya
(2004-01) Maina, Newton Kahumbi
This study investigated women religious leaders as actors in ethnic conflict management and resolution in Nakuru and Uasin Gishu districts, Kenya. These two districts in the Rift Valley Province, suffered the worst effects of the ethnic clashes that took place between 1992-1998. [he study was based on the general premise that in all conflict related situations women bear the greatest brunt of the violence. Yet, they are hardly represented in peace negotiations and in the various structures of peace making. Where they are included, the number of women is miserably minimal or negligible. By and large, the study shows that during the ethnic clashes, women were the main victims of the mayhem perpetrated by the attackers. Nevertheless, women are sidelined in various structures and processes of peace building. They are also under represented in the various peace meetings. The study has demonstrated that religion can be integrated with gender dimension in peace building, conflict prevention and management. This is underscored by the significant roles of women in peace building. These roles are evident from the work of Rural Women Peace Link, a network of women groups that is geared to peace building in the areas that have suffered the effects of ethnic clashes and other violent related conflicts such as cattle rustling. Various organizations that are involved in peace building, and conflict prevention and management are identified and discussed. These include the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK); the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (CJ&PC) and Catholic Women Association (CWA) under the auspices of the Catholic Diocese of Nakuru (CON); Centre for Conflict Resolution (CCR); and Mothers Union and Nakuru Region Inter-diocesan Christian Community Services, under the aegis of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), Diocese of Nakuru. The role of women religious leaders in peace building, conflict prevention. management and resolution is discerned from the various programs that are run by these organizations. The study employs a theoretical framework that is reconstructed from the functionalist theory of religion and the roles of religious women. This is in view of the fact that women religious leaders operate within the purview of religion. Hence it is within the context of religion that the roles of women religious leaders has been explained and understood.
Evangelizing executives: a case study of club members in Nairobi, Kenya
(2011-07-25) Mungai, G.M. Patrick
The purpose of this study was to examine evangelization of executives in Kenya. Specifically, the study sought: to establish the biblical and theological basis for evangelizing executives in Kenya; to evaluate the role of the executives both in the church and in the society; to establish the culture of the executives in Kenya; to examine the current approaches used by Christian groups and Church to evangelize the executives in Kenya; to investigate the challenges faced by Christian groups and churches in evangelizing the executives; and to recommend ways and strategies for the Christian Religious Education (CRE) curriculum to effectively reach out the executives in Kenya. The study was exploratory in nature and adopted both qualitative and quantitative approaches. It was implemented through surveys of a sample of executives in Kenya and senior leaders of mainstream Churches in Nairobi. Four case studies of both church and unchurched executives were used to complement these surveys. The study was conducted in Nairobi with the main field research being carried out in members clubs. This study had two populations, namely Kenyan executives and the top leaders of the ten mainstream churches in Kenya. Simple random sampling procedure was used to select the sample respondents from membership registers obtained from various golf clubs. Ten senior most leaders from each of the ten mainstream churches in the country were further selected for the survey of evangelists. Primary data were collected through surveys while secondary data were collected through library research. Questionnaires and an interview guide were used as researcher instruments after pre-testing. Data collection was conducted by the researcher with the help of two trained research assistants. The data were analyzed by applying a mix of both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Quantitative data were summarized and presented using graphs, charts and frequency tables. This was done to exemplify main trends that were derived from certain concrete responses. The quantitative data for this study were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. This exercise involved classifying data into key themes, patterns and relationships. Propositions and conclusion were then made based on the apparent patterns or relationship within the data. The findings of the study established that the Bible emphasizes on the need for theologians to preach out to all categories of people (including executives) so that they can be drawn closer to Christ. The task of the evangelist is to proclaim and explain the gospel (Romans 10: 14-15; Acts 8:35; Luke 24: 47, 32; 2 Timothy 4: 2-5; 1 Timothy 4: 13). Hence, evangelizing executives has a theological and biblical basis. Secondly, the findings identified the roles of the executives in the church along five broad categories namely: implementing values, monitoring, evangelization, giving resources and leading the church. Mentorship and evangelization were cited as the leading roles of executives. Thirdly, the study established that the executive class in the Kenya society is characterized by highly salaried professionals, business persons and the chief executives. They are financially able to provide financial support for various church programmes, especially evangelism. The effective means of reaching out the executives that were identified include Christian literature, story books/novels, newspapers, inspirational or motivational literature, golf/sports, social events, movies, televisions, expeditions- and family outings. Their business cultures provide a good platform for the Church and other religious groups to evangelize executives. The understanding of their culture provides three areas of concern from which they can be approached for evangelization. They include: knowledge, character and tactics. The study further identified various approaches that can be applied by churches and Christian groups in evangelizing executives. The study found a number of challenges faced by churches and Christian groups in evangelizing executives. Unavailability of executives due to their tight and busy schedules has hindered the churches' outreach programmes. Some of the executives demonstrate resistance and lack of acceptance to the gospel. The prevalence of strong social divides, discrimination on basis of sociocultural, ethnic, and religious lines has in some instances scuttled efforts by churches to evangelize executives. Finally the study proposes a number of measures that the churches and Christian groups need to address to effectively evangelize executives. In addition, a design of a Christian Religious Education curriculum has been proposed with the view of supporting some of the proposed recommendations.
Educating for integral personal development in the catholic secondary schools in Nairobi archdiocese, Kenya
(2011-08-15) Churu, Beatrice W
The study set out to survey the understanding of education for integral personal development of students in Catholic secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Nairobi and to assess the efforts made and challenges encountered in the bid to facilitate this development. Schools were sampled to cover a representation of the varieties of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese. In the field research, questionnaires were issued to Form IV students and interviews carried out with some key personnel in the sampled schools. A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was carried out with a group of students in each of the schools. The findings of the research show that there is a common understanding of integral personal development of students, constitutive of developing the various elements or facets of a person's capacities and many efforts are made towards achieving this. However, lack of cooperation between the various stakeholders in the schools, and overwhelming pressure to prepare students for examinations often sabotage these efforts. The study recommends the building up of the community in the school, with conscious, ongoing and sustained recourse to Christian and African anthropologies as reference points in responding to the challenge to mediate integral development of the students and all members of the school community. It also recommends that the Catholic Church in Kenya endeavors to distinctively define Kenya Catholic Education philosophy and institute mechanisms of its cultivation and sustenance across the schools
An assessment of responses towards African women's theology in selected institutions in Kenya
(2011-08-16) Okemwa, Pacificah Florence
This study is an assessment of responses to African Women's Theology in selected institutions. The study centres on why Feminist Theology which emerged in the developed countries of the West and has spread to other parts of the world under different labels has not been wholly embraced in Africa. It has focused on selected public institutions of higher learning and theological schools. The main argument in this study is that, African Women's Theology has not been included in the Theology and Religious Studies curriculum of many institutions because the meaning of the term feminism commonly used is considered foreign. Besides, the methodology and concerns of this theology have not been wholly contextualized. The study selected some church-sponsored institutions of higher learning as well as public universities for our research. The data were gathered by use of oral interviews and questionnaires and library research among other methods. The overall data were then collated, analyzed, interpreted and presented in six chapters. The study established that Feminist Theology in general and African Women's Theology in particular has been subordinated in most of the institutions. This is because it has also been seen as a foreign importation. To correct this, it is argued that African Women's Theology should be contextualized so as to highlight local societal concerns as opposed to Western theologies. More courses on African Women's Theology should also be taught at undergraduate and graduate levels. The study argues that women in Kenya have concerns that arise from their unequal status in relation to men in society. The whole society suffers from subordination of gender issues in the academy as only male perspectives and participation are considered. It is therefore suggested that favourable recognition of gender perspectives will prepare service providers such as church ministers, teachers, managers and economists to readily explore and exploit female and male talents for the good of the whole community. In light of the above, it is suggested that women theologians and gender sensitive male theologians need to campaign for the upgrading of the status of Women Theologies in general and African Women's Theology in particular and also participate in preparing appropriate curriculum. This will ensure that the whole society benefits from gender sensitive formation that prepares students for equitable regard of both women and men. The study recommends that there is need to include African Women's Theology in the curriculum of all theological schools and institutions of higher learning that offer Theology and Religious Studies.
The process of inculturation of christianity in Kenya: a case study of Kaaga Methodist Synod, Meru
(2011-12-22) Gitonga, Nahashon
Inculturation is of paramount importance in the transmission of Christianity in a cross-cultural setting. This is necessarily the case because inculturation produces a wholesome Christianity, which adequately meets the spiritual needs of the communities being evangelized. Lack of inculturation, however, renders Christianity ineffective in the lives of the recipient communities. The main focus of this study was, therefore, to investigate the process of incultulation of Christianity in Kenya, with particular reference to the Kaaga Methodist Synod in Meru, where primary data were collected, mainly through oral interviews. Secondary sources were also examined which shed light on the issues being investigated. The overall data were then synthesized, analyzed, and interpreted. In view of the data collected, it was found out that the Ameru community enjoyed a healthy and vibrant moral virtues which were steeped into their ethnographic background and world-view. However, the English Methodist Missionaries, in their evangelization condemned the entire Ameru religion-cultural heritage, labelling it "primitive", "pagan" and "devilish"; and therefore unfit for inculturation. Instead of engaging in the process of inculturation, they transplanted their home developed Christianity and planted it wholesale among the Ameru community. This approach precipitated a far reaching effect upon the Ameru community, such as the misconduct of the youth, boring worship services, and burdensome foreign religious organizational structure. The impact on the resilient cultural elements such as a curse or indigenous healing engender a devastating effect upon the converts because they reverse to the same cultural elements to obtain the spiritual ingredients lacking in the Mission Christianity. This scenario precipitates dualism. In order to resolve dualism and offer the Ameru community wholistic living, the study has proposed a process of inculturation of Christianity. The process consists of a theological integration procedure in which the indigenous cultural elements, which are compatible with the Gospel are incorporated into Christianity and those which are incompatible, are replaced. The integration and the replacement help in enriching the Mission Christianity, and therefore as a consequence, overcomes dualism. This leads to wholistic living. In our quest for the inculturation of Christianity, we have employed two theoretical models; namely Nieburhr's Christ and culture model, and Shorter's theoretical set model. Christ and culture model has been instrumental in evaluating and identifying the indigenous cultural elements which merit inclusion in the process of inculturation. The theoretical set model has also been vital in gauging the levels of cultural change for the purpose of inculturation. The two theoretical models adopted as the frame of reference for this study, were not only relevant, but also adequate and justified. The thrust of this work was to produce an inculturated Christianity in order to provide the Ameru community with wholistic living. To this end, various recommendations, based on the findings of the investigations, have been given on how this can be achieved. Admittedly, this study is limited in many ways, necessiting identification of further study.
Inculturation of the concept of atonement in africa: a case of the Wanga people of Kenya
(2012) Manya, Wandefu Stephen Mdiv
This study sought to address the problem of inconsistencies between faith and practice of Christianity among the Wanga people; which has resulted in less commitment of the Abawanga to their churches. This has farther led to the Abawanga moving from Christianity to other religions such as Islam; and at times back to the Wanga traditional religion, to seek religious satisfaction. This study proposed inculturation of the ritual and its interpretations as the most appropriate way to solve the problem. This is because inculturation will make Christianity an internalized religion hence becoming a faith that is fully lived, able to answer 'religious' questions among the Abawanga. The literature review of this study looked at the following aspects of atonement, namely; atonement among the Abawanga, and atonement in the bible. Being a relational concept, the interpretation was bound to be relation based. Yet this relationship ought to have its value founded on the bible; thus the bible must relationally speak to the Wanga religio-cultural form of atonement by way of inculturation. It is, therefore, necessary that the missionary as the chief evangelizer, understands the finer details of the Wanga culture; and the usage of various concepts such as, atonement; that form this culture. It is also important to understand their functions and the value attached to these details, because, if this does not happen, the missionary may not be able to provide the necess ••ry guidance, needed by Wanga converts. This study approached atonement as a cultural issue, and as such used Neiburh Richard's reflections of Jesus verses culture as a theoretical framework. This study was also, Christological in nature, based on anthropological research, specifically ethnography. Thus, the preferred method of research was qualitative. The qualitative data collected was analyzed using emerging themes; found in both ethnographic and focus group interviews. Ultimately, the idea was, to inculturate the biblical understarxiingof the concept of atonement, into the Wanga religio-culture so that Christian faith is internalized. The major findings showed that atonement rituals are some of the major rituals practiced among the Abawanga. These rituals involve the shedding of blood from animals and birds. At times special plants were used, as a replacement for animal blood. The study also found out that, there were specific people designated for leading this exercise. According to this study, if these rituals were conducted in accordance with the laid down procedures, then it was assumed that people had good relationships among themselves; and with their God
Integration of African indigenous guidance practices to adolescents' pastoral care and counselling programmes in selected churches of Nairobi
(2012-01-03) Gitome, J.W.
The purpose of this study was threefold. First, to find out the pastoral counseling given to adolescents in selected Nairobi churches. Second, to assess the element(s) of African indigenous counseling techniques already incorporated in the pastoral counselling techniques. Third, to examine the sources of guidance utilized by adolescents. Through purposive sampling method, seven churches in Nairobi from the main denominations in Kenya were selected for research. These are the Consolata Shrine Westlands, The Kings Church Githurai Kimbo, The African Church of the Holy Spirit (ACOHS) Pumwani, Chrisco City Church, Kenya Assemblies of God (Bahati), Riruta Baptist Church, African Independent Pentecostal Church of African (AIPCA) Dandora and the Salvation Army Kibera. Basic methods of fact-finding were utilized. The subject respondents included adolescents, pastoral workers, parents of adolescents and key leaders of sampled churches. In total a sample of 160 respondents were interviewed from population approximately not less than 10,400 church attendees. The data for the study were collected through the use of questionnaires, participant observation and analysis of documents from library sources. The overall data were collated, analyzed, interpreted and discussed in the light of Erickson's theory of identity and development. The theory shows that unless the adolescents grow holistically, they would result to social deviancy observed through withdrawal, fanaticism and rejection of cultural standards or give a passive stand that brings role confusion. The research findings revealed that adolescents in Nairobi were having unresolved problems and concerns such as boy/girl relationships, drug abuse and anxiety about bodily changes. In spite of this, the methods utilized by the pastoral workers in giving guidance in the seven churches, did not effectively help resolve adolescents' problems. The study recommends that for churches to be able to guide adolescents more effectively, church leaders need to look into issues such as establishing a good rapport with adolescents, training lay church workers specifically on the needs of the youth and creating ample time and space for adolescents' needs. The leaders will also need to identify with the seclusion camp model suggested in the study so as to guide and counsel adolescents in a more relevant manner. This would help stabilize the adolescents' inner person that craves for identify and recognition.
The Policy of the catholic church on family planning and its influence on fertility behaviour in Kangundo division, Machakos district
(2012-01-05) Kavivya, Cyprian M.
The Roman Catholic Church (RCC) has for a long time taught against the use of Artificial Family Planning (AFP) methods condemning them as immoral and sinful. This study sought to establish whether the teaching or policy of the RCC on family planning (FP) has any influence on the fertility behaviour of the Catholic adherents of Kangundo Division, Machakos District. The study is guided by the functional theory of religion as discussed by Carrier, O'dea and O'dea (1983) and Ring (1998). According to the theory, religion has a strong social and personal influence and control over the believers. In this regard, religion, not only determines people's identity, but also guides their social and other forms of behaviour. According to the functional theory, therefore, peoples' behaviour is largely influenced by their religious environment. This environment includes the teachings, beliefs, practices and the authority of a given religious institution, all these being regarded as sacred and authoritative by the adherents. The religious environment will, most likely, determine which innovations are to be adopted or rejected. Thus, an innovation or a new behaviour is likely to be rejected by the people if it is disapproved by an established religious group or institution that has powerful influence on them. This explains why the Catholic adherents are likely to reject the practice of AFP, which is disapproved by their church. The study had recourse to primary and secondary sources of data. The primary data were collected mainly by interview method, using the questionnaire instrument, while the secondary data were gathered through extensive library research, using content analysis method. The data were synthesized, arranged and analyzed according to themes. The study found that the awareness of FP methods in Kangundo is high but the acceptance, and, consequently, the use of modern family planning methods is low. Natural Family Planning (NFP) methods were found to be more popular than AFP methods. The latter were being used more by Protestants than by Catholics. The Protestants were found to be more liberal with regard to discussions on FP methods as compared to the Catholics, who regarded such discussions as immoral. Most of the Catholic associated AFP methods with immoral sexual behaviour, particularly premarital and extramarital sex. The behaviour was blamed for teenage pregnancies, illegal abortions, single parenthood and children born out of wedlock, not to mention about the spread of HIV/AIDS. It was observed that many Christians engaged in immoral sexual activities, which aggravated the spread of HIV/AID in Kangundo. As a way of reducing premarital pregnancies, single parenthood, abortion and the spread of HIV/AIDS in Kangundo, more Protestants than Catholics recommended the introduction of sex education in the current system of education. In addition to this, more Catholics than Protestants recommended sexual morality and faithfulness in marriage, which is the view promoted by the RCC. In conclusion, the researcher notes that more Catholic concurred with the teaching of their church in rejecting the use of AFP as immoral. Consequently, most of them used the NFP methods which their church promotes and ignored the AFP methods, although the latter are said to be more effective. Therefore, the study concludes that the fertility behaviour of the Catholic adherents in Kangundo is largely influenced by the policy of the church on FP. This conclusion agrees with the functional theory of religion according to which peoples' behaviour is largely influenced by their religious environment
Transitional ceremonies in Igbo indigenous religion: the case of NRI and Ihiala people of Anambra state, Nigeria
(2012-01-06) Nwoye, Miriam Agatha
This study was initiated against the background of a challenge posed by Robin Horton (1995), in which he concluded that despite the enormous output in terms of research and writings in the areas of African religious, previous scholars have not been able to respond adequately to three chief questions focusing on the basic tenets of the religion whose answers are important for a proper understanding of the substance of African Indigenous religion. These questions, according to him, are: What are the focal objects or the key spiritual agencies of African religious thoughts? What are the attitudes of the African worshippers to the spiritual agencies indigenous to their religion? What constitute the fundamental aims of African Indigenous religious life? Inspired by this challenge, the researcher chose as a topic of exploration, the study of four transitional ceremonies in Igbo Indigenous Religion namely the naming ceremony, the ceremony of taking over of a homestead, a component of Igbo marriage ceremony, and the burial/funeral ceremony. In this regard, two communities, Nri and Ihiala among the Igbo culture area of Anambra State, Nigeria, were chosen for the study. The Culture Area Methodology (CAM) as well as the Participant Observation Method (POM) was the principal design of the study. A purposive sampling design was used to target four relevant transitional ceremonies in the two communities studied. The snowball sampling technique was adopted in locating and pursuing the critical incidents of interest to the study and in reaching the pertinent people for the study. Three sets of instruments were used for the study: Documentary sources, Observation and Interview instruments. The major findings show that: Igbo Indigenous Religion is grounded on the Igbo worldview and assumption that attendance to the gods and ancestors of the religion bring good results, while neglect leads to chastisement, bad harvest, physical illness, and various other sanctions on the offenders. Igbo Indigenous Religion is a type of religion in which the Supreme Being is recognized and worshipped alongside other gods, spirits and ancestors. There are multiple goals to Igbo Indigenous Religion; almost all of them this worldly centered. The attitude of Igbo worshippers to the spiritual agencies of their religion is egalitarian, and multi-partial, or rotational in its sensitivity to the respect and worship accorded to the various agencies. Each agency is assumed to count in the economy of the welfare of the people. The principal findings of the study corroborated Horton's theory of African religion as entailing a quest for achieving of control of events in the current world, and therefore a pragmatic religion. The same is true of Turner's Theory of the symbolic emphasis in African religion, which was also found to be applicable to Igbo Indigenous religious practice. A number of recommendations for further studies were made on the implications of the present study. Among these is that similar studies like the one undertaken in the present research be carried out in other African communities. This will help to test the applicability of the findings of the present study to the nature of indigenous religions in other parts of Africa.
A theological and cultural analysis of healing in Jerusalem church of Christ and Nabii Christian church of Kenya
(2012-02-06) Mwaura, Philomena Njeri
This study investigates the continued proliferation, appeal and impact of African Instituted Churches in Kenya that concentrate mainly on the healing ministry. It undertakes an analysis of the healing beliefs and practices of Jerusalem Church of Christ and Nabii Christian Church of Kenya. These churches emerged in Kenya in the 1980's through African initiatives. They are part of the Holy Spirit Movement of Western Kenya that has its roots in the Holy Spirit Movement of Western Kenya that has its roots in the Holy Spirit revival in the Friends African Industrial Mission and the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada in 1927 and 1930s respectively. The study is significant for it has shed light on the interaction between the way these two churches respond to and interpret the gospel message of healing, in the psychosocial and spiritual predicaments of their adherents. The churches have followers in parts of Nairobi, Western, Rift Valley and Central provinces. The study employed a case study methodology. The study sample comprised leaders and members of JCC and NCCK selected on the basis of gender, age, educational background, position in church and length of membership. In the sample too, were people who have experienced healing and others who have not. The instruments used to collect data were interview schedules, participant observation and checklists for focus group discussions. A total of 138 informants were interviewed. From the data analysis the study has shown that these churches' understanding of health, illness and healing is influenced by both African religio-cultural and biblical backgrounds. This is the basis of their appeal to people of all walks of life in Kenya. In these churches culturally perceived illnesses for example those arising from witchcraft, sorcery and other mystical factors are acknowledged and addressed. Healing is mediated in a manner understandable to the people, for the prophet-healer and patients share a similar assumptive world and healing is also mediated in a caring and loving communal context. Healing is conducted in the name of God the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. The study has shown that the JCC and NCCK have made a contribution to an understanding of the theology of healing from an African perspective and the affirmation that sickness is part of the evil activity at work in this fallen world. Healing is also mediated in a holistic manner that takes into account all levels of being, namely; physical, mental, psychological, spiritual, social and environmental. This is an approach that is evident in both traditional African and Judeo-Christian contexts. The study has revealed that healing in the JCC and NCCK context means salvation, liberation, coming to understanding, catharsis, and transformation. It also has an immanent, transcendental and eschatological dimension. From the findings, the study concludes that for the Church in Africa to provide a holistic, effective and meaningful healing ministry, it needs to take the African concepts of health, illness and healing seriously. On the strength of these findings and conclusions, the study recommends the evolvement of a holistic, multi-dimensional and multi-sectoral healing ministry by the Church that addresses social, physical, cultural, spiritual, medical, psychological and environmental needs. Negative aspects in the healing beliefs and practices of JCC and NCCK particularly over spiritualization of evil and employment of traditional healing methods and perceptions that contradict the gospel message, need to be addressed and curbed. The study also recommends that the Kenyan Government should address the economic, social and political issues that necessitate a search for integral healing.
A comparative study of biblical teaching and the Ameru concept of environmental conservation: a case study of Imenti people Meru, Kenya
(2012-04-03) M'Ithinji, Moses Mutuiri
A Zulu saying goes "It is only a silly bird that destroys its nest". The world is in this sense a nest composed of varied mentality. Each member of the community has a constructive role in the sustenance of all creatures that dwell on earth. This study is a comparative explanation of the Biblical teachings and Ameru concept of environmental conservation. This is in view of the phenomenal global environmental crises. The objectives are to show Biblical understanding of ecology; Ameru mode of environmental conservation; a comparison between Biblical and Ameru conservation strategies an assessment of environmental degradation and, the plan of action. Research questionnaires were designed to help attain the aforementioned objectives. It is established that both Israelites and Ameru conserved their environment by responsibly tilling and keeping the garden. When Israelites lived in a camp they had to keep their environment clean, revealing that "cleanliness is second to godliness" (Deut. 23:12-14). Ameru preserved their environment by positively caring for the animals, the earth, soil erosion, water-catchment areas, resting of the shamba and the caring of the ecosystems, pods, forests, sacred wood (biitu) and grasslands. The area of study was South Imenti in Meru, presently in Central Meru District representing Meru area. Two questionnaires were employed to gather data. One dealt with the Biblical understanding of ecology and its application by the churches. The other questionnaire was about indigenous Ameru ways of conserving the environment. Data was gathered from both primary and secondary sources. Secondary sources, constituted libraries and archives. Primary sources involved interviews, questionnaires and participant observation methods in Bible studies and in Sunday services. Findings indicate that there were also other common conservation methods employed by the faithful through preaching, seminars and camps for planning trees. All in all, the church played a positive role in caring for the environment. It was confirmed that Ameru through their theo-centric beliefs, myths, rituals, proverbs, sacrifices passed the knowledge of environmental conservation from one generation to another. This is viewed to be the reason underlying South Imenti's beautiful environment. It was established after the independence the Ameru were freer to use natural resources due to demarcation of land. The preserved sacred groves, were cut down and the areas were made peoples' gardens. This also revealed that the change of the traditional land tenure from community (clan) to the individual was problematic, resulting into environmental degradations. The study observes that environmental conservation is a necessity for both the Ameru and the Church as part of humanity. The Church must embrace the environmental mission by ratifying the environmental covenant signed in Israel at Beit Hanassi on 6th September, 1993. It reads: We hereby enter into a covenant with all humanity, whenever they may be, to stand united to close the breach, to stop the mindless destruction and extinction which threatens our planet. Environmental degradation knows no boundaries, no nationalities, no states. Now is the time to heed the message of RIO, Earth Summit, the message of International and Regional co-operation and rational responsibility- our only hope of success (Gitau 1997:260). The study recommends effective environmental conservation strategies underlining that both the Church adherents and Ameru have a role to play.
The rationality of science: a critical- theoretic perspective
(2012-04-13) Oyigo, Josephat
This study is an attempt to unveil a comprehensive and viable theoretical framework that can , be used to explicate the intuitive notion of science as the paragon of human rationality. The study was prompted by the existence of a puzzling state of affairs in philosophy of science. On one hand, the image generally projected of science is that of rationality per excellence and this image is recommended for the rest of society. On the other hand, philosophers disagree on exactly what the rationality of. science entails. A critical examination of the subject area reveals that there is no theory of rationality of science acceptable to all on offer. The concern of the study is therefore twofold: First, why is science intuitively taken as the, exemplar of human rationality? Second, are the assessments of science now offered themselves rational? In answering these questions, the study reveals that, the traditional assessment frameworks, normally called methodologies are intrinsically defective and therefore incapable of explicating the rationality of science. It demonstrates that methodologies posit a dichotomy between descriptive and normative conceptions of rationality. This dichotomy is shown to be false. These frameworks also promote an instrumentalist conception of the rationality, which the study proves to be inadequate for the explication of the rationality of science. On the basis of these findings, the study suggests a conceptual paradigm shift from the traditional framework that is subject-centered and mono logical to a synthetic critical theoretic framework that is dialogical. This framework is arrived at after integrating Jurgen Habermas linguistically grounded theory of cotnmunicative rationality with Karl popper's institutional theory of scientific progress. It emphasizes epistemically and institutionally structured inter-subjective communication as central to rationality. The ensuing synthesis generates a mUltidimensional', and comprehensive framework that explicates the rationality of science. The critical theoretic framework is significant because it clarifies our understanding of the nature of rationality and the nature of science, which are imperative in science studies, philosophy of education and epistemology.
An appraisal of the role of the church in conflicts in Uganda with reference to the Buganda region (1879-1986)
(2012-04-13) Batulekeddeki, Joseph Matovu; Zablon Nthamburi; Gerishon M. Kirika
The purpose of the study was to appraise the Role of the Church in Conflicts in Uganda with reference to the Buganda Region (1879-1986). The study objectives were the following: the first objective was to identify and analyse the causes of church denominational instigated conflicts in Uganda using Buganda as reference case. The second was to establish and evaluate the methods of conflict resolution with. reference to Biblical teachings and Kiganda tradition. The third was to identify and examine the contribution and challenges faced by the church in search for peace in Buganda. The fourth was to propose ways and means of imparting Christian values of love for the neighbour, reconciliation and justice that can bring sustainable peace. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. Seventy five (75) respondents constituted the sample of the study. These included the Clergy, Lay Leaders and Ordinary Church Members. The researcher used research instruments namely: questionnaires and interview guides. Focused group discussions and documentary analysis were used as data collection methods. The study findings revealed that there was a significant relationship between church denominational (divisions) rivalry and conflicts in Buganda which have manifested themselves in the political arena through overt conflicts. The study demonstrates that the plurality of the Christian denominations brings competition, which overshadows the implementation of the biblical values resulting into inability to manage conflicts together as a Christian community. Meanwhile, the church has contributed to the search for peace in Uganda, but has also faced challenges. The study further revealed that the church could use means such as dialogue to impart Christian values of love for neighbour, reconciliation, and justice so as to bring about sustainable peace. The study concludes that an integrated procedure of conflict resolution and imparting Christian values should be adopted to address the apparent contradictions between the Christian teaching of these values and actual lifestyle of the Christians. Finally, there is need to promote sustainable peace in Buganda and Uganda as a whole. This will entail national reconciliation and integrating Christian values with the Kiganda conflict resolution mechanisms.
Morality among the Akamba: a case study of youth in Central division of Kitui district
(2012-06-11) Thyaka, Katola Michael
Morality is one of the human pillars that guarantee the survival of any community. However, when the youth lose a sense of morality the community becomes threatened since part of the present and the future is dependent on them. The major concern of this study was, therefore, to investigate morality among the Akamba with a focus on youth. The study area was the Central Division of Kitui District where primary data were collected mainly through oral interviews. Secondary sources were equally perused to gather more information which eventually clarified some of the issues under discussion. The overall data were then fused, analysed and interpreted. In view of the data presented and discussed, it was found that moral values in the indigenous Akamba community were largely based on forces outside an individual's mind. Accordingly, a conformist culture developed to force and/or persuade both the youth and adults to follow the customary moral values without questions. This explains why the community had virtues and vices. Admittedly, virtues helped to maintain the well being of the community by promoting harmonious co-existence while vices completely negated this effort of promoting genial relationships. The study nevertheless established that some vices continue to be practised in the study area even today. Even community is assumed to change with time. The study, therefore, established that the Akamba indigenous setup has been systematically torn down by agents of change such as: Christianity, Western form of education and technology. These forces have, in turn, freed the youth from the stringent indigenous social and religious controls. The youth have instead adopted new behaviour patterns which include pre-marital sex, drug abuse and reluctance to obeying traditional commands which lack empirical convictions. The social disorganization theory which was adapted as the frame of reference for this study, therefore, seemed not only relevant but also adequate and justified. The study has investigated as well the roles of the family, and the church in influencing the morality of the Akamba youth. Consequently, it has been concluded that the family and the church community especially the church leaders can utilize various methods effectively to prevent immoral practices like pre-marital sex and drug abuse through properly planned and informal counseling. Unfortunately, our field experience has revealed that some of the parents and the church leaders have not been able to consciously carry out this primary obligation and responsibility. The study has, therefore, challenged them to be more aggressive in counseling so that the youth may acquire useful moral values in the community. Based on the findings of the study, certain recommendations, which would presumably help the youth to abstain from pre-marital sex and drug abuse, have been suggested.
The civic and public roles of neo-pentecostal churches in Kenya (1970- 2010)
(2014) Parsitau, Damaris Seleina
Over the last few decades, the Pentecostal movement, in all its varieties has gained an increasing presence in Africa’s religious landscapes. Scholars are beginning to interrogate, how and what role(s) Christian churches play in the public sphere. This study analyses the roles of NPCs in Kenya’s public life since they shot into prominence from the 1970s and 1980s onwards. It was, however, in the last 15 years that some NPC’s clergy and churches became more visible in the public sphere. Through a critical analysis of the activities of three NPCs: Jesus is Alive Ministries (JIAM), Maximum Miracles Centre (MMC), and Faith Evangelistic Ministries (FEM) all in Nairobi, this thesis explores their contributions to Kenya’s civic and public life. These churches were not just chosen because of their prominence in the public sphere but also because they manifest themselves publicly through the mass media, engage with social and political issues and have robust gender empowerment programmes. Two of the three leaders, bishop Margaret Wanjiru and Pius Muiru both contested elective politics during the 2007 General Elections. Bishop Wanjiru also served in the Kenyan Parliament from 2008 to early 2013 and as an Assistant Minister for Housing. She also equally contested though unsuccessfully the 2013 General Elections. Evangelist Teresia Wairimu on the other hand is influential not just as a prominent female visionary, renowned for her faith healing and deliverance ministry, but also for leading one of the largest women-centered ministries in the country. Evangelist Wairimu also appears to wield soft power as her church often attracts the politically powerful to mingle with her ordinary followers. Their combined social visibility, public prominence and influence in Kenya’s public life necessitate fresh thinking in respect of these churches’ roles in Kenya’s civic and public spheres. The study approach is multidisciplinary drawing from Sociology, Gender and Theology, and utilizing social capital theories as a theoretical framework. The study employed a case study methodology, with study samples comprising leaders and members of JIAM, MMC and FEM selected based on gender, age, educational background and position in the churches as well as the duration of membership. Data was collected through in depth interviews (150 respondents equally spread within the three churches), participant observation (PO), Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) and content analysis of sermons, texts and televised messages. Findings from the study show that each church constitutes a significant presence in its respective community and engages civic and public life. The thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on religion and public life as well as broadening understanding of how and why Neo-Pentecostal Churches engage in issues in civic and public life.
The influence of changes on historical standards in selected urban Seventh-Day Adventist churches in Kenya
(2014) Kesis, Rei Towet
This study investigated the phenomenon of the influence of changes on historical standards in selected urban SDA Churches in Kenya. The problem was that the precipitating factors and implication of change in historical standards to the achievement of mission of urban SDA Churches in Kenya was unknown. The historical standards are gift of prophecy, health reform lifestyle and eschato-centric liturgy. The study involved issuing questionnaires in thirteen selected urban SDA congregations from the then eight ecclesiastical regions in Kenya. This was in order to give a more representative and balanced view of what was happening in the SDA Church in Kenya. The study further involved interviews with sixteen pastors, eight of them at the conference/field leadership and the other eight at the local church level. The pastors were identified from the eight ecclesiastical regions of the SDA Church. Data collected was eventually analysed using SPSS. The theoretical framework used in this study was developed from a combination of socio-cultural change and urbanization theories. The key arguments are that change is inevitable. Human societies are in groups and networks that regularly influence one another and urban areas are the epicentres of change. The focus was on urban congregations in Kenya viewed to influence one another and other churches. The study revealed that urban churches were strategic in initiating church programmes and were also influential to the extent that what happens in an urban church will soon spill over to other churches. This study has established some positive and negative developments. The study has identified key factors that precipitate changes occurring in historical standards. The study has assessed the influence of the changes on historical standards to the mission of the SDA Church and concluded that there is a steady negative influence. It is now determined that there is a relationship between the changes taking place in historical standards and the mission of the church. This study has contributed to knowledge a diagnostic procedure that serves as an early warning system when an urban church is drifting away from its mission. This procedure is very important because assessment of urban churches by what is just observed might be inaccurate because of invisible underlying factors. Assessment of the influence of changes on historical standards is a much more reliable analysis of church performance.
Christian-Muslim Dialogue with Particular Reference to Pentecostals and Muslims in Nairobi North District, Nairobi County, Kenya
(2014-02-18) Kamau, Patrick Mburu; Nyaga, Stephen Njoka; Nthamburi, Zablon
Interfaith dialogue is indispensable to peace and tranquility globally within the context of religious pluralism. Christians and Muslims worldwide stand in need of greater intercommunication, collaboration, and interfaith dialogue for harmonious living. Leaders of these faiths concur that Christian-Muslim dialogue is imperative. However, the interaction between Pentecostal Christians and Muslims has generally been characterized by distrust, apprehension and mutual rivalry, sometimes resulting into loss of life and destruction of property. In Nairobi, features of mistrust, disharmony, and intolerance among Pentecostal churches toward Muslims have been witnessed. The study explored Christian-Muslim dialogue with particular reference to Pentecostal Christians and Muslims in Nairobi North District, Kenya. It examines Biblical and Qur’anic teaching on Christian-Muslim dialogue as well as the role of religious organizations in fostering such dialogue. The study was guided by the Integrated Inclusivism Conceptual Model of dialogue which underlines areas of convergence and divergence in order to promote constructive Christian-Muslim dialogue. Overall, the study sought to examine how Christian-Muslim dialogue becomes a practical model for both Pentecostal Christians and Muslims in Nairobi building a harmonious human community that respects each other’s differences and particularities. Data for this study was gathered from both primary and secondary sources. Field research involved self-administered questionnaires and oral interviews. A non-probability sample method was used to collect data. The study purposively selected respondents from Pentecostal churches and mosques in Nairobi North District as well as the religious organizations that focus on interfaith dialogue based in Nairobi. Key respondents, focus group discussions and secondary data were utilized. Qualitative data, which reflect crosscutting issues, is thematized and grouped into similar categories for analysis. The study used SPSS in data analysis. Quantitative data is analyzed using descriptive statistics (simple statistical techniques) and these frequencies and percentages discussed and presented using tables and figures. The two categories of data are synthesized, integrated and presented thematically according to the objectives of the study. The research findings underscore that a constructive Christian-Muslim dialogueshould take into consideration integrated inclusivism ideals associated with shared theological concepts and values, socio-political and economic dialogue and divergent theological concept. The study found five main recommendation areas which when applied would promote constructive interfaith dialogue between Pentecostal Christians and Muslims in Nairobi North District. These include;promoting Christian-Muslim dialogue through Biblical and Qur’anicteachings, historical perspective, overcoming interfaith hindrances, through religious organizations, religious and political leaders and integrated inclusivism ways. In conclusion, interfaith dialogue is the solutions for effectivedialogue between Muslims and Pentecostal Christians in Nairobi North District.
The Role of Lamentation in African Biblical Hermeneutics: A Post-Colonial Reading of the Bible among Gĩkũyũ People of Kenya
(2014-02-22) Wanjao, Joseph M.; Anne Nasimiyu Wasike; Ndegwa, D. J.
The main focus of this study is to investigate how the biblical and African motifs of lamentation function in the development of critical text-reading methods among the Agĩkũyũ. More specifically it interrogates why Bible reading methods and literacy materials exported to Gĩkũyũland by the dominant European cultures have perpetually placed the ordinary Africans and colonialists in a contact zone of inequalities and constant conflicts. For this reason, the study analyzes Rachel‟s narrative of lamentation and weeping in Jeremiah 31: 15-17 as a colonial and post-colonial encounter in a reading context that values the core beliefs of text-readers in their daily struggle for survival. To achieve this task, the study probes the socio-economic and political aspects of lamentation for a new understanding of the Bible in its countenance of actual realities of life among the illiterate hearers, interpreters and re-tellers of the Bible story in Gĩkũyũ context. The methodology used has been informed by socio-economic conditions, indigenous worldview, encounter with missionaries‟ hermeneutics and the ontological questions that confront ordinary text-readers today. In the endeavor to reflect on text-reading from Agĩkũyũ and biblical motifs of lamentation, the research reflects on text-reading from premeditated Gĩkũyũ perspective of lamentation. In doing this, the research employed Brueggemann‟s (1995: 8-9) Orientation-Disorientation-New orientation theory; because of its multi-dimensional approach in interpreting the biblical text. The study is descriptive and employs qualitative method of research in Nyandarũa and Kĩambu Counties of Central Kenya. The informants include ordinary text-readers (Bible study groups, theological education groups), pastors/evangelists, ex-Mau Mau war veterans, and the elders who witnessed Mũthĩrĩgũ dance; totaling 329 informants. The instruments used to collect the data include observation, oral interviews and field note-taking. The study utilizes a comparative analogical method; whereby biblical and Agĩkũyũ motifs of lamentation have been used to interpret and appropriate the biblical text, in response to readers‟ needs, aspirations and thought patterns. The entire study consists of six chapters: Chapter one covers the background to the study, the review of related literature and the methodology. Chapter two explores the socio-economic and political situation of the Gĩkũyũ community, which has served as a contextual bridge between chapters one and two. Chapter three expounds on missionaries‟ attitudes towards lamentation in relation to contemporary denial of lamentation in text-reading process. Chapter four makes a presentation of hermeneutical conclusion of Rachel‟s narrative of lamentation in Jeremiah 31:15-17. Chapter five makes a theological reflection on Agĩkũyũ experience in order to initiate action plan of disengaging from oppression; while chapter six presents a general appraisal of research findings, their significance and limitations; it suggests a continuous action-reflection cycle.

Browse

Browsing PHD-Philosophy and Religious Studies Department by Issue Date

Results Per Page

Sort Options