The Place and Role of Women in the S.D.A. Church in Kenya (1911-1990)
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Date
1994
Authors
Okemwa, Pacificah Florence
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
This study examines the place and role of
women in the S.D.A. Church in Kenya. The
theoretical framework used in this study
examines patriarchy as the basis of women's
subjugation. This is because the patriarchal
society clearly defined what women should do,
say and how they should behave. Women's sphere
of influence was the home.
The basic argument in this study is that
women have been relegated to a subordinate
position. Consequently, these women only play
minor roles in the church. Chapter One
outlines the procedure that used in
investigating and analysing data. It also lays
out the methodology used.
Chapter two describes the traditional
Gusii society. It uncovers some of the subtle
aspects of this society plus some practices and
beliefs that are oppressive to women. This
information is used as a basis for analysis in
later chapters.
Chapter three examines Adventist
missionary education. This discussion shows
how the missionary education contributed to the
subordination of women in the S.D.A. Church in
Kenya. The missionaries trained men to become evangelists while women were encouraged to get
married to the mission boys.
Chapter four , examines the factors
influencing the place and role of women in the
S.D.A. Church. These include the white
missionaries who have been serving the S.D.A.
Church in Kenya since its establishment, the
Bible, the teaching of Ellen G. White and the
culture of the Abagusii. This chapter also
analyses the ordination practice In the S.D.A.
Church. Attempt is made to show how
ordination has been used to keep women out of
the leadership positions and decision making in
the church.
In Chapter five, the roles of women in the
S.D.A.Church are described and interpreted.
Here, it is observed that women play only minor
roles. Finally, we conclude that the S.D.A.
Church has hampered the wholistic development
and participation of women in church affairs.
Therefore, it is suggested that the
S.D.A.Church has to open all ministries to
women in order for it to adhere to the
authentic christian principles.
Description
A Thesis Submitted in Partial Fulfillment for the Degree of
Master of Arts-in Kenyatta University