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Item The Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement in Kenya: A Case of the Catholic Diocese of Meru, 1996-2022(Kenyatta University, 2023-05) Mbae, Alex MutuaThe emergence and widespread of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (CCRM) is clad with opportunities and challenges. It has attracted admirers and eritics in equal measure. Moreover, it is facing resistance from parish priests who accuse its members of defiance, causing divisions, confusion, and suspicion among the faithful. This study sought to survey the historical development of the CCRM in the Catholic Diocese of Meru (CDM), as well as the challenges encountered by this movement. It was guided by the following objectives: to assess the history and development of CCRM in CDM from 1996 to 2018; to explore the distinctive features of CCRM in the CDM and to establish the challenges faced by the CCRM in CDM. The study employed the Rational Choice Theory. This theory argues that religion and its systems compensate humans while human beings themselves are viewed as actors who act rationally as they make their best choices. Thus, they calculate costs and gained benefits. The research study used a descriptive survey design whereby opinions of the CCRM members across CDM on the origins, features and challenges of CCRM in the CDM were gathered. The study targeted a study population that comprised of 4,091 CCRM members drawn from the 9 deaneries in CDM. The sample size was 352 respondents drawn from CCRM members, their leaders, priests and a bishop. The study stratified the population into deaneries from where three parishes per deanery were sampled using simple random sampling. Then systematic random sampling was employed to obtain five CCRM members from the sampled deaneries, totalling to 352. The study also used stratified and purposive sampling to select three leaders from every sampled parish resulting to 81 leaders. One parish priest was purposively selected. This gave 27 priests and one bishop of CDM. Six CCRM members were selected through simple random sampling totalling up to 243 members. On data collection, questionnaires, interviews and POs were used. Specifically, the study used questionnaires to obtain data from members and leaders of CCRM, while interviews were used to gather qualitative data from the Catholic bishop and parish priests. A PO guide was used to collect information on how CCRM members carry out their activities. Validity and reliability of the instruments were tested before actual data collection. A reliability coefficient (r) of 0.734 was obtained; hence, deemed reliable as the coefficient fell within the recommended range of above 0.7. Quantitative data was analysed and findings presented using frequency distribution tables, means, percentages and standard deviation with the aid of computer software; Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data collected through interviews and POs was analysed thematically. According to the study findings, CCRM has distinctive features, they include: prophesying, carrying out exorcism and deliverance services, speaking in tongues and praying for healing of the sick. The challenges the movement experiences included: inadequate resources, defection, and social unacceptability. CCRM started in CDM in 1996 and has continued to spread and grow. The study recommended that members of CCRM should work together with the Church leadership to ensure that they receive the required support.Item Implications of Multiple Church Affiliations among the Youth in Reference to Bungoma County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2023-05) Rutto, Valentine::;l:il;llelvcl:llgcyoif‘l‘ll\llallgll is an emerging and growing trend globally among Christians, aavel {he un;jefl ~';1anf presents a new area that requ.lre exten‘swe .res.earch inquiry to prousity afiiliations) ;n 1g actl}(:rs. The current study examined the implications of multiple Bungoma Couty Kong e yopth in re.ference to El_gon Ward, Mt. P;lg'on Sub-County, ty, Kenya. The implications of multiple church affiliations among the vouth can be described through forms of multiple church affiliations, roles of the youth in the church, what youths expect the church to offer them, activities dedicated for the vouths, and general factors for multiple church affiliations and how they apply to the youth today. The problem under investigation by the proposed study relates to not only hO\.\' multiple church affiliations manifest among Christian youths but also how it affects their commitment to church. Accordingly, the study sought to evaluate the forms of multiple church affiliations among the Christian youth, establish factors underlying their multiple church affiliations, and identify activities that they are involved in. The background to the study demonstrates that multiple church affiliation among Christian youths is a growing practice at the local, regional, and global level. This study was justified because its findings would awaken the Church in developing values that can retain and sustain the youth in the Church. The broad themes for literature review included forms of multiple church affiliations, factors underlying multiple church affiliations, and activities for the youth in the church. The Social Bonding Theory guided the study. The researcher used a descriptive survey design, whose purpose is to help in unearthing people’s attitudes, habits, opinions, social, or educational issues. This research design was therefore found suitable in studying the implications of multiple church affiliations among the youths as it enabled the researcher to meet research objectives. Data generated from the instruments of the research was analyzed and presented through discussions, narratives, as well as descriptive statistics supported by tables and graphs. Secondary data was also generated from books, journals, research reports, periodicals and the internet. The target population comprised 1500 youths. The sample size was 150. Both male and female respondents were sampled through random, purposive and stratified sampling methods. The researcher used questionnaires, interviews, focused group discussions (FGDs), and participant observation (PO_) schedules to generate quantitative and qualitative data. The forms of the youth affiliations to these churches are hurch activities. Factors leading paid-up membership, registration, and participation in ¢ . e conservatism and leadership to multiple church affiliations among the youth includ and | ; and, monetary giving in the church. The findings imply that i rosperity gospel ! ::Shs:recsl; lljeadlzrshi};a gsholzlld devise ways of engaging the youths more by undc?rstandmg their roles in the church and their expectations from the church; cclli_\borate vylth youths to develop effective and specific strategies to addres_s factors ux_'xderlymg rn'ultlple chufch affiliations; and allow youths to participate in activities that excite them while also urging them to embrace the core activities of the church.Item The Anglican Church of Kenya Interventions to Domestic Violence against Women in Maseno North Diocese, Kakamega County, 1995-2022(Kenyatta University, 2023-03) Mulongo, LeonardDomestic violence remains a major concern that hinders the att in Sub Saharan Africa. Today, violence that is gender based till very prevalent in Kenya despite a high pereentage of Christian faithfuls, This situation threatens the ceonomic and social development in the country. ‘The current study therefore investigated the Anglican church of Kenya (ACK) Maseno North Diocese interventions Kakamega to domestic violence against women. This was done with specific reference to crucial Central Sub-county during the period 1995 — 2022, The year 1995 was critical because this is when the Beijing World conference was held and it discussed the following subject; abusive behaviour against ladies. The study was guided by the violence specific objectives: to investigate the influence of culture on domestic of the general against women in Kakamega Central Sub-county and to examine the response Sub-county. public towards domestic violence against women in Kakamega Central domestic violence Others include; to explore the rol e of law enforcing agencies towards factors towards against women in Kakamega Central Sub-county and to discuss low domestic violence ag wards the churches intervention against Theory as adv. a Central Sub-county. The Social Control Goode (1971), Loseke (2005), Lackey and olence guided the study. The theory p; occurs as a result of an individual’ ainment of gender parityItem The Anglican Church of Kenya Interventions to Domestic Violence against Women in Maseno North Diocese, Kakamega County, 1995-2022(Kenyatta University, 2023-03) Mulongo, LeonardAbstractItem Influence of Youth empowerment Programs in Nurturing Responsirle Christian Adults in Gospel Tarernacly Churches Machakos County(Kenyatta University, 2023-06) Muturi, Mercy NginaTh?: youth all over the world face different challenges. The church as part of the society, has a role to play in helping the youth overcome these challenges. Thus, the “h“"c'{ runs youth empowerment programs where young people gain ability, tmt_hon(y, and agency to make decisions and implement change in their own lives. This research study explored the influence of these youth empowerment programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults in Gospel Tabernacle Churches (GTC), Matun_gulu Sub County in Machakos County. The study was guided by the following f our objectives: to identify the influence of youth empowerment economic programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults at GTC Matungulu sub county, to examine effects of youth empowerment knowledge acquisition programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults, to evaluate youth empowerment life skill values acquisition programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults and to assess you?h ‘empowerment gifts and talent development programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults at GTC Matungulu Sub County. The area of study was Matungulu Sub C_ounty Gospel Tabemnacle Churches (GTC), Machakos County. On the thec;reucal framework, the study used Social Gospel Theory. A descriptive survey design was considered useful. The target population for GTC Matungulu under study was 825 respondents. They included; 290 registered adult members, 500 youths, 20 church leaders and 15 pastors. However, the sample size comprised of 250 r.espondents. To obtain the study’s sample random and purposive sampling techniques were used. To collect data for the study, questionnaires and interviews were used as the research instruments. Narratives of the interviews were recorded ¥hen transcribed. Thereafter, the collected data was analysed, synthesized and finally interpreted. The findings were presented in percentages, frequency distribution tables, pie charts and bar graphs. The study’s findings revealed that though GTC Matungulu Sub County has established youth empowerment programmes that nurtured the youth to be responsible Christian adults, they are still facing many challenges. The study concludes that the dominant youth challenges can be dealt with if the church develops and diversifies her delivery methods of the youth empowerment programs. Moreover, there is need to immediately to re-examine and sufficiently renovate the delivery methods of youth empowerment programs. This can be done through enabling many youths to obtain higher education levels, to minimize the effects of the dominant youth challenges like poverty by dealing with it from its source, provision of efficiency resources, frequency of delivery, teaching content that is well suited to modern times and diversity of delivery methods and programs. Besides, the age limits for the youths receiving empowerment could be extended and the church should consider partnering with other stakeholders to assist the youth. It is hoped that the finding of this study could serve as a wakeup call to the church, county governments and the national government to come up with proper policies and implementation frameworks for youth empowerment programs.Item Influence of Youth Empowerment Programs in Nurturing Responsirle Christian Adults in Gospel Tarernacly Churches Machakos County 2013-2018(Kenyatta University, 2023-06) Muturi, Mercy NginaTh?: youth all over the world face different challenges. The church as part of the society, has a role to play in helping the youth overcome these challenges. Thus, the “h“"c'{ runs youth empowerment programs where young people gain ability, tmt_hon(y, and agency to make decisions and implement change in their own lives. This research study explored the influence of these youth empowerment programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults in Gospel Tabernacle Churches (GTC), Matun_gulu Sub County in Machakos County. The study was guided by the following f our objectives: to identify the influence of youth empowerment economic programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults at GTC Matungulu sub county, to examine effects of youth empowerment knowledge acquisition programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults, to evaluate youth empowerment life skill values acquisition programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults and to assess you?h ‘empowerment gifts and talent development programs in nurturing responsible Christian adults at GTC Matungulu Sub County. The area of study was Matungulu Sub C_ounty Gospel Tabemnacle Churches (GTC), Machakos County. On the thec;reucal framework, the study used Social Gospel Theory. A descriptive survey design was considered useful. The target population for GTC Matungulu under study was 825 respondents. They included; 290 registered adult members, 500 youths, 20 church leaders and 15 pastors. However, the sample size comprised of 250 r.espondents. To obtain the study’s sample random and purposive sampling techniques were used. To collect data for the study, questionnaires and interviews were used as the research instruments. Narratives of the interviews were recorded ¥hen transcribed. Thereafter, the collected data was analysed, synthesized and finally interpreted. The findings were presented in percentages, frequency distribution tables, pie charts and bar graphs. The study’s findings revealed that though GTC Matungulu Sub County has established youth empowerment programmes that nurtured the youth to be responsible Christian adults, they are still facing many challenges. The study concludes that the dominant youth challenges can be dealt with if the church develops and diversifies her delivery methods of the youth empowerment programs. Moreover, there is need to immediately to re-examine and sufficiently renovate the delivery methods of youth empowerment programs. This can be done through enabling many youths to obtain higher education levels, to minimize the effects of the dominant youth challenges like poverty by dealing with it from its source, provision of efficiency resources, frequency of delivery, teaching content that is well suited to modern times and diversity of delivery methods and programs. Besides, the age limits for the youths receiving empowerment could be extended and the church should consider partnering with other stakeholders to assist the youth. It is hoped that the finding of this study could serve as a wakeup call to the church, county governments and the national government to come up with proper policies and implementation frameworks for youth empowerment programs.Item A Study of the Factors Perpetuating Infibulation among Somali-Muslims in Mandera District, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2003-09) Ali, Mohamed AbdiAbstractItem Prevalence of Drug Abuse among Muslim Students in Public Secondary Schools in Mombasa County, Kenya.(Kenyatta University, 2024-07) Mohamud, MwanaishaDrug abuse among students is a growing concern world over because of its detrimental effect on health and development. Drug abuse related crimes and costs are eating into the limited resources. Urgent intervention is increasingly becoming critical agenda for countries and societies. In context, the prevalence rate of drug abuse among Muslim students in Mombasa County, Kenya is reported to be on an escalating trajectory. This is happening regardless of the region being perceived as predominantly Muslim and Islamic teachings are against drug abuse. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the prevalence of drug abuse among Muslim students in public secondary schools in Mombasa County, Kenya. The study was guided by the Social Learning Theory which states that behavior is learned and influenced by the people around us. This study was also informed by the Jurm Model (Theory) of Addiction which describes addiction as a crime, and drugs considered a social problem. Study objectives revolved on first, Islamic teachings on drugs among secondary schools in Mombasa County; second, predisposing factors of drugs among secondary school students; third, prevalence of drug abuse among secondary school students and finally, intervention strategies on drugs among public secondary schools in Mombasa County. Descriptive survey research design was used to guide the study. Simple random sampling technique was applied to get a sample size of 347 respondents. Questionnaire and interview schedules were used to collect data. A combination of the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) and Excel packages aided the analysis and results presented in figures or tables. The study findings reveal that, students abused drugs in order to improve academically, physical appearance and relieve stress. The study found peer pressure and availability of drugs as risk factors to drugs. Overall prevalence rate of drug use among Muslim students was 9.3%. Alcohol, tobacco and miraa (khat) were the most abused drugs. Conclusively, drug abuse among Muslim students was a real challenge, especially legal substances such as miraa/khat), alcohol, and tobacco. Academic and co-curricular engagement of all students in the school is ideal in reducing the peer pressures among the students. It is recommended that drug abuse intervention programs should be holistic, concurrently addressing both predisposing factors as well as the preventive factors in school and home settings. The school curriculum should be professionally and research based to ensure it is flexible enough to provide students with adequate time for leisure activities.Item Contribution of Don Bosco Development Outreach Network to the Integral Empowerment of the Catholic Youth in Muranga County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-09) Waithaka, Lucy NjeriYouth integral empowerment continues to attract serious global discussion due to the various challenges faced by youth today. These include unemployment, ill-health, and lack of education, drug abuse and crime. This calls for corporate interventions from the government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the Church to initiate programs that are geared towards empowering the youth in all dimensions to restore their dignity. Holistic development of the youth is one of the calls and the mission of the Catholic Church. Through it, the youth are supposed to be developed in all aspects of life. In Kenya, in Murang'a County, the Catholic Church tries to implement this through the Don Bosco Development Outreach Network (DBDON). The study interrogated the contribution of Catholic Church’s DBDON to integral empowerment of the Catholic youth in Murang’a County, Kenya. The study sought to bring to light the activities of DBDON towards Catholic youth integral empowerment in the study area. The study was guided by three objectives. First, it discussed the nature of the Catholic Church DBDON program towards integral empowerment of the Catholic youth in Makuyu. Secondly, it examined challenges faced by DBDON towards integral empowerment of the Catholic youth. Finally, it established the measures that could be taken to curb the challenges facing the DBDON program in integral empowerment of the Catholic youth. The study was guided by Holistic Christian Transformation Theory by Bragg, Samuel, Sugden (2003). The study was carried out in Makuyu, Maragua South Sub- County in Murang'a County. A descriptive survey design was used. Purposive and random samplings were used to select a sample size of 126 respondents from a study population of 185 Catholic youth and leaders of the Don Bosco Makuyu DBDON program. The target population was the Catholic youth who were currently in DBDON at the time of the study, the youth who had benefited from DBDON, the parish priest, and the administration of the DBDON program. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and represented through tables, pie charts and graphs. Qualitative data was organized into study themes that corresponded with the study’s objectives and later represented in narrative form. The study established that Catholic Church’s DBDON organization had established various programs that promoted youth integral empowerment. Additionally, the Catholic youth acquired skills which enabled them to become self-reliant and reformed. Moreover, the findings revealed that, the DBDON program had impacted the lives of the youth in several ways. Nonetheless, the results indicated that the DBDON program faces several challenges including financial constraints that derail their efforts, inadequate learning resources as well as poor participation. Therefore, the study recommends that the church should take measures to curb the challenges it faces in order to ensure effective youth integral empowerment. It is hoped that the findings of this study would spur a collective responsibility from all stakeholders who include government: the national and county, NGOs, community-based organizations (CBOs) as well as faith-based organizations (FBOs) to be involved in youth integral empowerment since the youth form a segment of the society’s population that is very vital.Item Domestic Violence against Women in African Inland Church in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-10) Ronoh, Lucy JepkemeiVarious studies indicate that women across the world are frequently exposed to different forms of domestic violence (DV). In Kenya, it is reported that almost half of the female population has directly or indirectly experienced domestic violence. Domestic violence is abusive behavior perpetrated by one’s partner in a relationship. It is notable that its patterns and persistence are interwoven into social norms and power relations. Uasin Gishu County, particularly Soy Sub-County, has witnessed a significant surge in gender-based violence (GBV) cases over recent years. The community, predominantly composed of the Kalenjin community, with over 75% conforming to the African Inland Church (AIC) Christian faith, forms a substantial and representative sample for this research. This research aimed to assess the prevalence of DV against women, with a specific focus on the role of the clergy within the AIC in addressing these DV. This study sought to examine the role of the church in addressing domestic violence among its followers the study utilized the feminist and cultural lag theories in situating domestic violence and its responses in a patriarchal context. The study employed a stratified sampling method, simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data collection involved questionnaire interviews, key informant interviews (KIIs), and focus group discussions (FGDs). Qualitative data analysis utilized Excel to identify leading themes. Respondents' knowledge of factors causing DV against women and self-reported experiences were used to measure the existence and nature of DV. Quantitative data analysis, conducted using SPSS 2.0 software, employed descriptive and inferential statistics, presented through tables and figures. From the empirical analysis, a combination of patriarchal culture, financial constraints, alcohol abuse, and a lack of conjugal rights were found to contribute to DV against women. The study established that 32.6% of victims of DV sought help from the church through its leadership. It was further established that domestic violence is common among the faithful of the AIC church. While the clergy understand what constitutes domestic violence, the study establishes that the church does not have a substantive framework or policies to guide them on how to address domestic violence. The study also found that the coping strategies that were used may not solve the problem entirely, as the clergy are not well prepared to handle it. The study recommends comprehensive training for clergy and church leaders to effectively address DV, accompanied by the establishment of frameworks or guidelines within the church. Additionally, stronger collaborative efforts between the church, state, and other sectors are essential to creating synergy in addressing domestic violence in Soy Sub-County.Item Belief in Witchcraft and its Effects on the Stability of Families in Mosocho Divison, Kisii County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-11) Obwaya, Nancy KemuntoThe purpose of this study was to examine the belief in witchcraft and its effects on the stability of families in Mosocho Division, Kisii County which has persisted to exist. The study was guided by three objectives; First, to establish various forms of witchcraft and their influence on family stability in Mosocho Division, Kisii County, second, to investigate types of punishment meted out on suspected witches and how they affect family stability in Mosocho Division, Kisii County and finally, to explore effects of belief in witchcraft on the stability of families in Mosocho Division, Kisii County. This was achieved by reviewing a number of published and unpublished materials based on the objectives. It was realized that various scholars have not addressed the belief in witchcraft and its effects on the stability of families. The study was guided by Marwick (1967) Theory of Social Accusation which argues that witchcraft accusations and allegations lead to social tension and hence breaks family relationships. The study applied descriptive survey research design conducted in Mosocho Division, Kisii County. Data was collected from Mosocho Division, Kisii County which comprises of seven locations. Data from respondents was collected through questionnaires and interviews. Pretesting of the questionnaires was undertaken to establish their reliability and validity. Proportionate and purposive sampling methods were used to collect data from a sample of Kisii elders, local government administration officials (chiefs and sub-chiefs), human rights activists and youths, that included both male and female participants with a total sample size consisting of 394 respondents. The respondent’s age, gender and period of residence were significant determinants. The collected data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 involving descriptive statistics for quantitative data. Qualitative data was analysed through content and thematic analysis aimed at consolidating thematic issues. The findings revealed that there was a wide array of witchcraft forms in the study area; and that inherited or family witchcraft was the most commonly practiced. Additionally, enmity, divorce, school dropout, development of mental health conditions, displacement and loss of property were the most detrimental effects of witchcraft in Mosocho Division. Moreover, the findings indicated that belief in witchcraft influences the stability of families. It is hoped that these findings through its recommendations will enable the community and local administration to come up with strategies and a platform that provide an opportunity for creating a more unified social order, based on family unity, and a more accommodative society devoid of witchcraft or its effects.Item Pastoral Care among Bukusu Widows: The Case of the Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Africa Church, Bungoma County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2024-03) Simiyu, Jescah NaliakaBoth the African traditional and Christian groups emphasize on the significance of unwavering love for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable. This study examined the pastoral care accorded to the widows within the Bukusu community. It set out to examine its implementation in line with biblical teachings and the extent to which the present cultural practices affect it. The general objective of the study was to investigate pastoral care for widows within the Bukusu community with specific reference to the Pentecostal Evangelistic Fellowship of Africa (PEFA) church in Webuye East, Bungoma County, Kenya. It was guided by the four objectives: first, to identify problems faced by widows within the Bukusu community following the deaths of their spouses; second, to examine the support PEFA church offers to widows in the Bukusu community during their grieving period; third, to explore the Bukusu widowhood practices observed by the widows and finally, establish strategies that can enhance the pastoral care program for widows among the Bukusu at PEFA Church. The literature was reviewed in the light of the study findings. This study was guided by Kubler-Ross‘ Theory of Grief (1969) and Ferguson‘s work on feminism published in 2017. Because the study employed a descriptive research design, the researcher collected factual data in a methodical manner through the use of questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs). PEFA church leaders and widows made up the study's respondents. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select the study sample. While secondary data was obtained from relevant previously published materials, primary data was gathered using FGDs and questionnaires that were developed from the study objectives and interview schedules. Descriptive statistics, narratives, and verbatim citations were all used in the data analysis. Quantitative data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), grouped thematically, and presented narratively. The study findings revealed that widows within the Bukusu community face financial struggles, land loss, and debts after the death of their husbands. Moreover, PEFA church provides pastoral care which is limited because of the widows‘ high expectations and limited awareness. The study suggests strategies to improve pastoral care, which include income-generating activities (IGAs), support groups, healthcare, community-based organizations (CBOs), government registration, bursaries, and fundraisers. It is hoped that the findings of this study will enable the church, government and other stakeholders to understand the unique challenges the widows face within the Bukusu community. In this way, they can come up with appropriate mechanisms to mitigate them besides. Further, they can formulate relevant policy frameworks and their implementation to enhance effectiveness of pastoral care.Item The Influence of Terrorism Activities on Muslim-Christian Relations in Garissa County, Kenya, 1998-2015(Kenyatta University, 2023-03) Ismail, Abdi Aden; Newton Kahumbi Maina; Margaret GecagaAbstractItem Roman Catholic Church Teaching on Sanctity of Human Life and its Bearing on Suicide Among Youth in Nairobi City County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Sunguti, Henry Khakavo; Michael T. Katola; Margaret GecagaThe primary goal of this study was to examine how the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church about the sanctity of human life relate to youth suicide. The World Health Organization stated on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) of 2022 that an estimated 703,000 persons attempt suicide each year (WHO,2022). Suicide ranks as the fourth most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 28worldwide, with over 77% of instances occurring in low- and middle-income nations (WHO,2019). When faced with traumatic life events like suicide, many turn to religion as a protective coping mechanism that gives them comfort and significance. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, life is sacred and, as such, is the preserve of God, the author. The problem statement was: Can the RCC's teaching on sanctity of human life enhance the mitigation of suicide among youth in Ruaraka Deanery, Nairobi City County, Kenya? The general research problem was to examine why some youth resort to suicide even after being exposed to the teachings of the RCC on sanctity of human life through various pastoral programs. The study's specific goals were to determine the factors that contribute to youth suicide cases, find out how the RCC teaches the sanctity of human life in various youth programs, look into how the RCC handles successful and unsuccessful suicide cases, and, lastly, develop different strategies to reduce youth suicide in Ruaraka. The study utilized two interconnected theories of suicide: David Klonsky and Alexis May's (2015) Three-Step Theory of Suicide (3ST) highlighted the ideation to action path of a suicidal person, while Thomas Joiner's (2005) Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS)emphasized the importance of an individual's social connections. The survey design employed in the study was descriptive. A purposive sampling strategy was employed in the Ruaraka Deanery to choose the ten parishes. Three methods were used to gather primary data: questionnaires, interview guides, and focus groups. The study's target group included the clergy, parish administration, youth, and catechists of Ruaraka Deanery. Youths were selected by simple random section, whereas clergy, catechists, and leaders were selected using a purposive sample technique. Consequently, the study findings showed: various factors lead to suicide cases and suicidal thoughts, social media and online sources, poor understanding of RCC teachings on sanctity of life, deficiencies in training of the catechists and ineffective methodology in teaching of the sanctity of human life. The study recommends: that the Catholic Deanery of Ruaraka needs to enhance the methodology of teaching the doctrine on sanctity of human life in catechism classes and other programs, the clergy availability to youth, and the government to step up efforts to enshrine religious teachings to address the problem of suicide in Kenya.Item Inrtegrating Akamba and Pastoral Counselling Models to Mitigate Infidelity in Africa Inland Church Kitui County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Munyoki, Dennis Mutua; Michael T. Katola; Philomena N. MwauraSexual infidelity is a world-wide phenomenon that adversely affects the sanctity of marriage. It seriously impacts the family, which is the basic unit of the society. Christianity and culture have always provided moral standards by which social behaviour is regulated. This has been through structured guidance and counselling to the members of the society. The counselling emphasizes on morality, sanctity of marriage and family as the locus of the society. However, marital challenges and especially cases of sexual infidelity are still rampant among members of Africa Inland Church. It is paradoxical having pastoral counselling structures emphasizing on sanctity of marriage in place and at the same time, rampant cases of sexual infidelity. In the Akamba indigenous society, the counselling system was effective in that members of the society were socialised into acceptable behaviour commensurate with the norms, values and beliefs of the society. Thus, cases of marital instability and especially sexual infidelity were minimal compared to today when the church is perceived to have grown. The question about how AIC pastoral counselling programs can produce positive results, especially in regard to marital sanctity remains critical in this study. This calls for an integrative counselling model that brings both counselling techniques together for a more formidable counselling model. To achieve this goal, three specific objectives guided the study: to investigate the causes of sexual infidelity among Christians couples; to find out the challenges resulting from sexual infidelity and to assess the Akamba counselling elements that can be incorporated in AIC Pastoral counselling model with a view to finding ways of mitigating sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church, Kitui County, Kenya. Although extensive research has been carried out on Akamba and Pastoral counselling techniques, sexual infidelity menace is insufficiently explored. Literature reviewed confirmed that AIC counselling approach, content analysis and timelines is a matter of concern. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules, Focus Group Discussions and through analysis of documents retrieved from the library. The research used purposive and simple random sampling method. Purposive sampling selected participants on the basis of their significance to the research topic. Descriptive statistics, frequencies and percentages were used in the analysis and presented through narratives, bar graphs and frequency tables. Mead's (1863-1931)Symbolic Interactionism theory, Emile Durkheim (1912) functionalist theory and Walker's (2020) Integrated Pastoral Counselling model, were applied to the data. These theoretical frame works were employed to articulate the fundamental role played by the church and community in socialization of individuals in the society and need to maintain theological integrity while doing integration. Key findings revealed that inadequate preparation before marriage, marital dissatisfaction, and geographical migration were among highly rated causes of sexual infidelity. The study concludes that the prevailing status of sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church is likely to be addressed if the Church revisits and adequately reconstructs a pastoral-cultural integrative counselling model with a view of mitigating sexual infidelity for stability of Christian families in Kitui County, Kenya.Item Roman Catholic Church Teaching on Sanctity of Human Life and Its Bearing on Suicide among Youth in Nairobi City County, Kenya(kenyatta university, 2023) Sunguti, Henry Khakavo; Michael Katola; Margaret GecagaThe primary goal of this study was to examine how the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church about the sanctity of human life relate to youth suicide. The World Health Organization stated on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) of 2022 that an estimated 703,000 persons attempt suicide each year (WHO, 2022). Suicide ranks as the fourth most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 28 worldwide, with over 77% of instances occurring in low- and middle-income nations (WHO, 2019). When faced with traumatic life events like suicide, many turn to religion as a protective coping mechanism that gives them comfort and significance. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, life is sacred and, as such, is the preserve of God, the author. The problem statement was: Can the RCC’s teaching on sanctity of human life enhance the mitigation of suicide among youth in Ruaraka Deanery, Nairobi City County, Kenya? The general research problem was to examine why some youth resort to suicide even after being exposed to the teachings of the RCC on sanctity of human life through various pastoral programs. The study's specific goals were to determine the factors that contribute to youth suicide cases, find out how the RCC teaches the sanctity of human life in various youth programs, look into how the RCC handles successful and unsuccessful suicide cases, and, lastly, develop different strategies to reduce youth suicide in Ruaraka. The study utilized two interconnected theories of suicide: David Klonsky and Alexis May's (2015) Three-Step Theory of Suicide (3ST) highlighted the ideation to action path of a suicidal person, while Thomas Joiner's (2005) Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) emphasized the importance of an individual's social connections. The survey design employed in the study was descriptive. A purposive sampling strategy was employed in the Ruaraka Deanery to choose the ten parishes. Three methods were used to gather primary data: questionnaires, interview guides, and focus groups. The study's target group included the clergy, parish administration, youth, and catechists of Ruaraka Deanery. Youths were selected by simple random selection, whereas clergy, catechists, and leaders were selected using a purposive sample technique. Consequently, the study findings showed: various factors lead to suicide cases and suicidal thoughts, social media and online sources, poor understanding of RCC teachings on sanctity of life, deficiencies in training of the catechists and ineffective methodology in teaching of the sanctity of human life. The study recommends: that the Catholic Deanery of Ruaraka needs to enhance the methodology of teaching the doctrine on sanctity of human life in catechism classes and other programs, the clergy availability to youth, and the government to step up efforts to enshrine religious teachings to address the problem of suicide in Kenya.Item Integrating Akamba and Pastoral Counselling Models to Mitigate Infidelity in Africa Inland Church Kitui County, Kenya(kenyatta university, 2023) Munyoki, Dennis Mutua; Michael T. Katola; Philemona N. MwauraSexual infidelity is a world-wide phenomenon that adversely affects the sanctity of marriage. It seriously impacts the family, which is the basic unit of the society. Christianity and culture have always provided moral standards by which social behaviour is regulated. This has been through structured guidance and counselling to the members of the society. The counselling emphasizes on morality, sanctity of marriage and family as the locus of the society. However, marital challenges and especially cases of sexual infidelity are still rampant among members of Africa Inland Church. It is paradoxical having pastoral counselling structures emphasizing on sanctity of marriage in place and at the same time, rampant cases of sexual infidelity. In the Akamba indigenous society, the counselling system was effective in that members of the society were socialised into acceptable behaviour commensurate with the norms, values and beliefs of the society. Thus, cases of marital instability and especially sexual infidelity were minimal compared to today when the church is perceived to have grown. The question about how AIC pastoral counselling programs can produce positive results, especially in regard to marital sanctity remains critical in this study. This calls for an integrative counselling model that brings both counselling techniques together for a more formidable counselling model. To achieve this goal, three specific objectives guided the study: to investigate the causes of sexual infidelity among Christians couples; to find out the challenges resulting from sexual infidelity and to assess the Akamba counselling elements that can be incorporated in AIC Pastoral counselling model with a view to finding ways of mitigating sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church, Kitui County, Kenya. Although extensive research has been carried out on Akamba and Pastoral counselling techniques, sexual infidelity menace is insufficiently explored. Literature reviewed confirmed that AIC counselling approach, content analysis and timelines is a matter of concern. The study employed a descriptive survey design. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview schedules, Focus Group Discussions and through analysis of documents retrieved from the library. The research used purposive and simple random sampling method. Purposive sampling selected participants on the basis of their significance to the research topic. Descriptive statistics, frequencies and percentages were used in the analysis and presented through narratives, bar graphs and frequency tables. Mead's (1863-1931) Symbolic Interactionism theory, Emile Durkheim (1912) functionalist theory and Walker’s (2020) Integrated Pastoral Counselling model, were applied to the data. These theoretical frame works were employed to articulate the fundamental role played by the church and community in socialization of individuals in the society and need to maintain theological integrity while doing integration. Key findings revealed that inadequate preparation before marriage, marital dissatisfaction, and geographical migration were among highly rated causes of sexual infidelity. The study concludes that the prevailing status of sexual infidelity in Africa Inland Church is likely to be addressed if the Church revisits and adequately reconstructs a pastoral-cultural integrative counselling model with a view of mitigating sexual infidelity for stability of Christian families in Kitui County, Kenya.Item Roman Catholic Church teaching on sanctity of human life and its bearing on suicide among youth in Nairobi City County, Kenya.(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Sunguti, Henry Khakavo; Michael Katola; Margaret GecagaThe primary goal of this study was to examine how the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church about the sanctity of human life relate to youth suicide. The World Health Organization stated on World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) of 2022 that an estimated 703,000 persons attempt suicide each year (WHO, 2022). Suicide ranks as the fourth most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 28 worldwide, with over 77% of instances occurring in low- and middle-income nations (WHO, 2019). When faced with traumatic life events like suicide, many turn to religion as a protective coping mechanism that gives them comfort and significance. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, life is sacred and, as such, is the preserve of God, the author. The problem statement was: Can the RCC’s teaching on sanctity of human life enhance the mitigation of suicide among youth in Ruaraka Deanery, Nairobi City County, Kenya? The general research problem was to examine why some youth resort to suicide even after being exposed to the teachings of the RCC on sanctity of human life through various pastoral programs. The study's specific goals were to determine the factors that contribute to youth suicide cases, find out how the RCC teaches the sanctity of human life in various youth programs, look into how the RCC handles successful and unsuccessful suicide cases, and, lastly, develop different strategies to reduce youth suicide in Ruaraka. The study utilized two interconnected theories of suicide: David Klonsky and Alexis May's (2015) Three-Step Theory of Suicide (3ST) highlighted the ideation to action path of a suicidal person, while Thomas Joiner's (2005) Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) emphasized the importance of an individual's social connections. The survey design employed in the study was descriptive. A purposive sampling strategy was employed in the Ruaraka Deanery to choose the ten parishes. Three methods were used to gather primary data: questionnaires, interview guides, and focus groups. The study's target group included the clergy, parish administration, youth, and catechists of Ruaraka Deanery. Youths were selected by simple random selection, whereas clergy, catechists, and leaders were selected using a purposive sample technique. Consequently, the study findings showed: various factors lead to suicide cases and suicidal thoughts, social media and online sources, poor understanding of RCC teachings on sanctity of life, deficiencies in training of the catechists and ineffective methodology in teaching of the sanctity of human life. The study recommends: that the Catholic Deanery of Ruaraka needs to enhance the methodology of teaching the doctrine on sanctity of human life in catechism classes and other programs, the clergy availability to youth, and the government to step up efforts to enshrine religious teachings to address the problem of suicide in Kenya.Item Abandonment of Church by Youth-Believers in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Kisii County, Kenya(Kenyatta University, 2022) Kireri, Douglas Omosa; Julius Gathogo; Francis MwanikiThe study sought to explore the rationale behind the abandonment of the Church, mainly among the youth-believers in the Adventist Church in Kisii County, Kenya. It has investigated why an otherwise committed youth, who faithfully used to attend the Church would suddenly stop showing up on a weekly, monthly and/or yearly basis, despite living in the neighborhood; yet they still claim to observe the Sabbath. This following objectives guided this research; to analyze the practicability of the Baptismal Class Sessions in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Kisii County, to explore the reasons why youth-believers abandon the Church after baptism in Kisii County, and to suggest solutions to the challenge of the phenomenon of youth abandoning the Adventist Church in Kisii County. The study reviewed the literature related to the Church and the youths. The study was theoretically informed by Emile Durkheim‟s Functionalist Theory, which argues that society is a system of related parts of social institutions, such as the family, religion, and the economy. Durkheim‟s theory concludes that religion acts as both glue and a lubricant to the social process. The researcher adopted descriptive design in analyzing the data. The target population in this study was the S.D.A Churches in Kisii County because it involved the youths in these Churches. Purposive sampling was conducted where youths in Churches were included in the study. In this regard, ten selected clergy and other Church members were purposively interviewed. The study used three types of questionnaires, that is, for the clergy, Church elders, and for the youths. The study also used interview schedules and Focused Group Discussions. Piloting was conducted in Kirenga Central S.D.A in Lari to test the validity and reliability of the research collection tool-questionnaire. In a nutshell, the study established the critical factors that make the youths abandon the Church. The main reasons include; failure of parental roles, boring worship service, misjudgment by elder members, dropping out of a ministry, poor role models, dropping out of a group, and gradual withdrawal. The study also explored potential solutions to the problem of youths in the vice of abandoning the Church. This includes: an emphasis on fundamental teachings, reorganization of baptismal classes, and making religious instructions pleasant among other solutions. The study will be crucial to the Church, the society and the country at large because it is geared towards attempts in remolding the moral uprightness of the society, as the Church partly plays the role of instilling morals to the youth. To the clergy, the study will help them to put up necessary measures in place in order to retain the youths in the Church. The research found out that the baptismal class sessions are in place in preparing new converts to become church members. It was also noted that there are a number of reasons that make the youth to abandon the church and solutions to these reasons were suggested. The research therefore recommended a number of issues that can be looked into to help in youth retention. These recommendations include improving the methods of preparing the new converts by making adjustments in the baptismal classes and also coming up with activities that will engage the youth in church to help in retention among other recommendations.Item Evolution in the Religious Beliefs and Practices of the Abamarama of Kakamega County, Kenya, C. 1850–1960(Kenyatta University, 2022) Otswondo, Wilberforce William; Gimode A. EdwinThis study is a historical analysis of the evolution of religious beliefs and practices among the Abamarama of Kakamega County who belong to the larger Abaluyia ethnic group. The study traced the evolution and development of religious beliefs and practices of this community as occasioned by decades of encounter and interaction with Christianity. This study makes a contribution to our knowledge from a historical perspective of the Abamarama culture and the Christian missionary enterprise. Among the objectives addressed in this study were, to: analyse the indigenous religious beliefs and practices of the Abamarama from c. 1850-1885; examine the response of the Abamarama to mission Christianity, 1885-1930; establish the extent of adoption of western Christian beliefs and practices by the Abamarama 1930 to 1960. Literature on the cultural history of the Abamarama and other related studies were reviewed for purposes of establishing gaps of knowledge in this study. The research was informed in the Symbolic Interactionism theory and the Conflict theory of religion. The study employed qualitative research design in gathering data for this theses. The study used purposive-stratified and snowballing sampling techniques to select the informants. The study used both primary and secondary sources to gather information. Primary sources included oral interviews and archival sources from the Kenya National Archives and the Christian mission archives in Butere. Focus Group Discussions (hereafter FGD) and oral questionnaire for the interviews were employed as research instruments that assisted in gathering primary data. The data was analysed qualitatively because of the qualitative nature of this study. Data from the archives, oral interviews and library was analysed in corroboration with that from secondary sources. The research begun upon receiving authorization letter from Kenyatta University. Research permit was issued by the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation. The study acknowledged all the authors that were cited in this research. Names of informants were not shown on the interview guide sheets for purposes of confidentiality. From the study findings; Abamarama had developed social, economic and political organization in the pre-colonial period. They had well-established religious beliefs and practices based on ancestor veneration and the belief in the Supreme Being. The interaction between Abamarama and Christianity caused resistance from Abamarama who later accepted and blended Christian values with their indigenous culture and formed a new hybrid religion. The Christian community that was formed among the Abamarama by 1960 was not pure Christianity but a syncretic religion. The findings of the study may be used by other scholars to conduct studies on transformation of culture among other ethnic groups within Kenya.