Journal of Pastoral and Practical Theology

Nexus between Biblical studies and spiritual development of street families in selected Faith Based Organisation's rehabilitation programs in Eldoret Town, Kenya

Abigail Kerubo Osoro, Maurice Ogolla, Nehemiah Nyaundi — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study explored the nexus between Biblical studies programs and the spiritual development of street families drawn from the rehabilitation programs in selected Faith Based Organisations (FBOs) in Eldoret Town, Kenya. Previous studies focused on the social and psychological aspects of rehabilitation. The study was underpinned by the Divine Command Theory, adopted a mixed method approach, which involved the use of both correlational research design and descriptive survey design Interviews, questionnaires and field observations were employed to collect data. Chi-square tests of association were employed to measure the relationship. Qualitative data, including field observations, were analysed thematically. Study findings revealed that Bible study programs continue to be a significant component of FBOs' efforts to rehabilitate street families in Eldoret Town. The Pearson chi-square test, the likelihood ratio test, and the linear-by-linear test results confirmed that the nexus between these Bible study programs and spiritual development among street families is positive and statistically significant. The study concludes that proactive employment of Bible study programs in FBOs in Eldoret Town to rehabilitate street families has a direct impact on the spiritual development of these families. It was recommended that all FBOs should adopt policy guidelines that embrace Bible studies programs.

Role of the Anglican Church in addressing the boy-child crisis in the diocese of Embu

Moses Murithi Nyaga, Dickson Nkonge Kagema, Hellen Kagwiria Orina — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study examines the role of the Anglican Church in addressing this crisis by analysing socio-cultural, economic, and spiritual challenges faced by boys and young men. The boy child crisis in Kenya, marked by declining educational achievements, increased crime, substance abuse, and socio-economic marginalisation, necessitates strategic interventions. A descriptive survey design was used to provide a comprehensive understanding. The population comprised 26,108 men, women, and youths across 50 churches in 7 archdeaconries, with a sample of 383 respondents selected using stratified proportionate random sampling, including 254 men and women, 73 youths, 21 priests, and 35 elders. Data were gathered through interviews, questionnaires, and focus group discussions. The findings showed support for pastors providing guidance and counselling in schools and clergy families' involvement in youth development. There was significant backing for boys' seminars and views of youth engagement in church activities. The study also revealed support for door-to-door missions to attract youths to ministry and church-led drug abuse campaigns and mentorship programs. The church was seen as a key supporter of male youth, creating a welcoming environment and integrating traditional and modern practices. The study concludes that the Anglican Church is well-positioned to address the boy child crisis through targeted interventions and recommends formalising pastoral roles in guidance and counselling, enhancing youth leadership, and strengthening outreach programs.

Worshipers practice of the teachings on environmental conservation in the Full Gospel Churches of Kenya Embu Evurore District, Kenya

Esther Karuana Rubiri, Dickson Nkonge Kagema, Moses Kathuri Njeru — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study sought to evaluate the ways in which the church worshippers practice the teachings on environmental conservation in the Full Gospel Churches in Embu Evurore District, Kenya. Despite the Full Gospel Church's teachings on environmental conservation, there is prevalent environmental degradation in Embu Evurore District, Kenya. This study was guided by behaviour change theory, which states that an individual is a victim of their environment. Descriptive formats were used to collect information, analyse, compare and interpret data. The study targeted the five local churches in Embu Evurore District. A Sample population was obtained through a random sampling technique. The findings of the study led to the conclusion that worshippers' awareness of the practices of environmental conservation influenced how they practised environmental conservation. The study also found that there were worshippers who were unaware of the conservation measures. The findings of the study contribute to religious knowledge in Eco-Theology. The findings of this study are beneficial to church leaders as they add insight to policy formulation and decision-making on environmental conservation. The findings of this study will sensitise the worshippers to proper practices in environmental conservation.