Master of Divinity

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://192.168.0.29/handle/123456789/137

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Developing an effective strategy to evangelize the Soli people in Chalimbana District, Chongwe-Zambia
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021) Namilonga, Makuni
This thesis surveyed the evangelistic processes of the Seventh-day Adventist church among the natives of Chongwe in Zambia. Statistics and observations indicated that public and rally evangelizations were not very successful in Chongwe. This challenge was partly because of the perception of the people about Seventh-day Adventist Church, its beliefs and the church’s seemingly ignorance of the word view of the people. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the perceived hindrances to Adventist evangelization of Chalimbana, the evangelistic approaches Suitable to the Solis population of non-SDA develop, and implement and evaluate an effective method to evangelize the indigenous Soli people of Chongwe in Zambia. Towards this agenda the researcher used a descriptive method for the research process. Following an investigation of the problem through survey, group’s discussion, interviews and observations, the research designed a friendship evangelism programto build a bridge to drive the gospel message. The program was carried out with a team of five (5) members and it ran from November 5, 2020 to January 19, 2021 in Chalimbana Mission District (CMD) Chongwe. A number of relational activities were carried out so as to establish friendship for a favourable environment to evangelize. These included embarking on community service program, distribution of relief items, entrepreneurship seminars, education seminars, health seminars and screening program. These activities were carried out alongside home to home Bible studies and prayer. The study found that the most suitable method for evangelizing the population is through building bridges. This is what we call friendship evangelism. This was demonstrated by the change of perception of the people about the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the baptism of thirty-eight persons into the church. The study concluded that that people who are hard to reach can be reached through friendship by creating close relations. Thus study recommended the church should train members on the importance of relationship as an essential component of Christian mission and evangelism, be sensitive in the way they disseminate information either formally or informally, devise programs that will interest the locals to the church, have a consistent plan or system for helping new believers grow spiritually and invest in social amenities such as boreholes, education and health Centre’s which can both directly and indirectly help witnessing.
Perception of members’ understanding of church discipline and its role in spiritual growth in Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Port-Harcourt District, Rivers State, Nigeria
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-02) Oamen, Victor Ebhodaghe
The study was focused on the perception of members’ understanding of church discipline and its role in spiritual growth. For this purpose a mixed design comprising questionnaire and interview was adopted. A sample size of 230 composed of 117 female and 113 male.12 of the respondents were between age range 15-25; 73 were between 26-39 while 145 were 40 and above years. The sample was drawn from Seventh-day Adventist Church, Mile 3, the headquarters of Port Harcourt district. The respondents were exposed to questions relating to restorative role of church discipline, and factors that can either enhance or hinder restoration. Three ministers in the Port Harcourt Conference Administration were interviewed on the importance and relevance of church discipline to the spiritual health of the church; the important roles of leadership in realizing the goal of church discipline; and the reality of restoration ofthe disciplined erring member and spiritual growth of the church through church discipline. Analysis of the data collected revealed that 100% of the respondents believes that church discipline is important and relevant. Approximately 99% of the respondents believes church discipline is truly redemptive and could restore the disciplined erring member, and cause spiritual growth of the church. The ministers interviewed, affirm that church discipline is relevant and truly restores the disciplined erring member and also give credibility to the mission of the church if the right condition are in place. Though the level of belief in the restorative role of discipline is very high, one wonder why members resist it and some ministers are slack in the use of this tool ordained by God. That seems to suggest there is a gap between belief and practice. The study therefore suggested some practical solutions on how to makes church discipline effective. They are exemplary leadership and transparent conduct, compassion and love, strict compliance with church policy procedure, taking sin seriously, timely dispatch of disciplinary cases, church discipline education, fair and impartial administration of discipline, securing the influence of the Holy Spirit, transformed life, and follow up programme.
Perceptions of polygamy and treatment of polygamous male converts: a Mozambican context
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-03) Muabsa, Silas B.
Different treatment of polygamous male converts within Christendom, the existence of a first wife and non-defined stances in the absence of explicit local and worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church policy pose a challenge in treating polygamous male converts. Moreover, varied perceptions among members about polygamy and polygamous wives’ legitimacy exacerbate the challenge in a country where 19.5% of married women live in polygamous relationships. Ascertaining which wife ought to remain and understanding members' and polygamous converts’ perceptions regarding wives’ legitimacy in polygamous marriages and polygamy concerning adultery, the sole biblically sanctioned reason for divorce, is the aim of the research. Answering these questions is crucial in the debate towards a framework to better disciple polygamous men. The researcher surveys the biblical treatment of first and subsequent wives, the roadmap to any course of action in missions. Also, a literature review, a survey of Pentateuch laws and a study of Abrahams, Jacob’s, Elkanah’s and royal polygamy aid in forming a holistic understanding of the phenomenon. Besides, 481 church members from Tete, Sofala, and Maputo responded to a questionnaire. A non-probabilistic, purposeful sample of four polygamous male converts share their perceptions of polygamy and polygamous converts’ treatment through an interview. The research concludes that, in contexts permissive of polygamy, none of a polygamous man’s wives commits adultery, and all are equally legitimate. Both the first wife and the non-defined stances violate no biblical principle, and neither infringes local legislation. Although the former stance is more prevalent among questionnaire respondents, interview participants base their choice on factors other than the chronological order of acquisition. Additionally, God’s treatment of polygamous wives and Ellen G. White’s dealing with unbiblical marriages demand a treatment that transcends chronological order. Such treatment calls for flexibility whenever the first wife’s stance is unfeasible, assessing and mitigating negative social and missional implications of any stance and follow an adequate cultural exegesis of polygamy in specific communities. Furthermore, this treatment requires effective education and training of church members and guidelines making the wife’s choice a results of a contextualized discipleship process.
A program to promote spirituality in family life in the Jabe Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Bujumbura District
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-04) Irakoze, Paul
This research set out to examine the level of spirituality in the families of the Jabe Seventh-day Adventist church. Information was collected from Christian literature, the spirit of prophecy, and a thorough examination of biblical principles on families’ spirituality. The data collection and analysis on the realities of spirituality dynamism in families of the Jabe Seventh-day Adventist church was carried out using a quantitative approach, with a survey, a questionnaire, the data were analyzed using correlation and the results showed that there is a need for spirituality revival in the families of the Jabe SDA church. And the program was designed and implemented to address these issues. The evaluation of the implementation showed positive and the program was effective for improving the spirituality of the Jabe SDA church.
Total Membership Involvement strategy for mission at Nyegezi SDA Church-Mwanza City, Tanzania
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-05) Baraka, Boniphace
In recent years the Seventh-day Adventist denomination leadership has increasingly used a strategy for Total Member Involvement as its core mission initiative. However, there has been a scarcity of studies dealing with the issue. This project was to develop and train church members at Nyegezi SDA Church, on the importance of being supportive to being fully involved in mission activities which essentially goes beyond supporting the church through tithe and offering. A theological undergirding for this project was developed from the six biblical and one non-biblical character on how they lived Total-Member Involvement (TMI). TMI is the modern term that is used to explain the special approach to involve every church member in a special experience of serving God practically. The Biblecharacters studied in the context of TMI included Moses on family and possessions (Exod 10:7-10, 21-24), Jethro on Delegation (Exod 18:18-24); Nehemiah on Opposition (Nehemiah 4:1-6); Jesus on missionary report (Mark 6:30-31); Apostles on Holy Spirit Outpouring (Acts 2:1-3) and Paul on Unity (1 Cor. 1:10). The non-biblical character featured is Ellen G. White through an online search in the Ellen G. White Estate portal. The field research drew a sample of 260 respondents across various age cohorts using stratified sampling. The empirical data was collected in the pre-test phase to identify the problem. Thereafter intervention was done after post-test data collection was done to provide the final evaluation. The finding showed four souls joined the church, one soul was baptized; various areas of the church ministry were improved. These were frequency of church attendance; personal devotion, reading bible study guide, witnessing, church satisfaction, and sense of being empowered for Total Member Involvement. However, two aspects did not show improvement; these are reading the bible and reading Ellen G. White's books. It is recommended Nyegezi SDA Church Members continue sustaining the revival of the Total Member Involvement approach that has started. More emphasis should be put on reading the bible and Ellen G. White Books as they are the foundation in strengthening the witness of the church. Moreover, South Nyanza Conference (SNC) leadership ought to employ the strategy used in this study as it will help to make more church members join by witnessing and not depending on biological growth only. Lastly, the North Tanzania Union Conference leadership is advised to use the strategy implemented in this study to roll out afresh the Total Member Involvement in all churches using an intervention approach.
The effect of servant leadership style on membership retention in Ada district of the Seventh- Day Adventist Church, Greater Accra Region
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-05) Andoh-Mensah, Chris
The purpose of the study was to investigate the Servant Leadership style and its effects on membership retention in the Ada district of the Seventh-day Adventist church in the Greater Accra Region. The objectives that drove the study were to identify the importance of Servant Leadership in the Ada district, to identify factors that affect membership retention in the Ada district and the Effects of Servant Leadership on membership retention in the Ada district. The study is descriptive by its nature and the researcher as well as employed a qualitative research approach. For this study, the population was the church members in the three (3) churches of Ada district of Seventh-Day Adventists in the Greater Accra region: Big Ada SDA church (109 recorded members), Kasseh SDA church (158 recorded members) and Ada Foah SDA church (56 members). Purposive sampling also used to select three (3) church elders, one from each church. For selections of the church members simple random sampling and probability sampling technique used to select twenty-five (25) members from each church. Twenty-five members from each church were chosen due to the COVID 19 pandemic. Data collection was analysed qualitatively using the content analyses approach. Results presented descriptively, making use of themes and sub-themes, verbatim reporting and quotations. The study revealed that church members knew about Servant Leadership. Church members appreciated leaders that practised the Servant Leadership style. The study also established that church members know the importance of Servant Leadership. The results showed that the Servant Leadership approach helps build team spirit, promotes unity and helps productivity. The study revealed that the usage of the Servant Leadership style reveal positive church member retention. The practice of the Servant Leadership approach as reported by the study's result increased trust among the members of the church. The study concludes that there is a relevance in practicing the Servant Leadership style. One of these is church unity and inclusiveness. The study concludes that the practice of the Servant Leadership style has effects on the retention of church members. These effects include servant leadership style increasing members trust, loyalty and satisfaction with the leader and promoting the active participation of members in church activities. The study recommend that church leaders should be encouraged to adopt the Servant Leadership style in leading their congregation.
A Biblical response to the challenges of dual allegiance at the Mozambique Adventist University Church
(Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-05) Macamo, Ovídio José Bonifácio
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Mozambique is still facing the challenges caused by dual allegiance. Dual allegiance is the mixing of Biblical principles with traditional beliefs, hence causing syncretism. Its practices are embedded in the people's worldview, consequently affecting the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in this territory negatively. This study aimed to discover the facts leading to dual allegiance among the Mozambique Adventist University Church members. Also, suggest a biblical response to respond to this Missiological problem. Consequently, the study considered understanding the causes, the manifestations, the impact, and the possible solutions for solving these challenges. Furthermore, the researcher analyzed selected biblical passages from both Old and New Testaments and Ellen White's writings to establishthe theological foundation of the issue and understand how God dealt with those who got entangled in these practices during biblical times. The study used a mixed-method and descriptive approaches. Consequently, the researcher used two instruments to collect data among the Mozambique Adventist University church members. The instruments used were survey and questionnaires. Furthermore, the researcher used a convenient sample to distribute to survey the church on October 17, 2020. A total of 134 respondents participated in the study, including both genders (52 female and 82 men), with age group varying from 20 years old to above 61. The instrument used to analyze the quantitative data is SPSS. Additionally, the researcher interviewed three former church pastors of the investigated church. These interviews intended to assess the pastor's experiences concerning the cultural aspects that influenced the gospel's preaching among the Mozambique Adventist University Community. The results were presented into six categories: The cultural practices of the community and their manifestation, the influence of cultural practices in the allegiance to God, the process of contextualization of the message, the reasons that lead the members into dual allegiance, how the church dealt with the phenomenon of dual allegiance and the possible solutions for dual allegiance. The outcomes obtained from the data collection revealed that dual allegiance in its various manifestations is still a missiological challenge among the Mozambique Adventist University members. In other words, witchcraft accusations, sorcery and ancestors’ worship are still practices observed by the members. Furthermore, social life challenge and a lack of solid theological firmness in the word of God are the causes of these practices. In short, the study verified that members have challenges inthe understanding of the doctrines of "the State of the Dead" and "Growth in Christ" and "the Great Controversy." Finally, the study revealed the necessity of emphasizing more in biblical training of the members, pastoral visitation, and engaging them in biblical practices to solve this problem. The researcher also suggests some recommendations to the local church leaders and the Central Conference, and the Mozambique Union Mission, which, if implemented, will contribute to solving this missiological challenge.
Total Membership Involvement Strategy for Mission at Nyegezi SDA Church – Mwanza City, Tanzania
(Adventist University of Africa, 2021-05) Baraka, Boniphace
In recent years the Seventh-day Adventist denomination leadership has increasingly used a strategy for Total Member Involvement as its core mission initiative. However, there has been a scarcity of studies dealing with the issue. This project was to develop and train church members at Nyegezi SDA Church, on the importance of being supportive to being fully involved in mission activities which essentially goes beyond supporting the church through tithe and offering. A theological undergirding for this project was developed from the six biblical and one non-biblical character on how they lived Total-Member Involvement (TMI). TMI is the modern term that is used to explain the special approach to involve every church member in a special experience of serving God practically. The Bible characters studied in the context of TMI included Moses on family and possessions (Exod 10:7-10, 21-24), Jethro on Delegation (Exod 18:18-24); Nehemiah on Opposition (Nehemiah 4:1-6); Jesus on missionary report (Mark 6:30-31); Apostles on Holy Spirit Outpouring (Acts 2:1-3) and Paul on Unity (1 Cor. 1:10). The non-biblical character featured is Ellen G. White through an online search in the Ellen G. White Estate portal. The field research drew a sample of 260 respondents across various age cohorts using stratified sampling. The empirical data was collected in the pre-test phase to identify the problem. Thereafter intervention was done after post-test data collection was done to provide the final evaluation. The finding showed four souls joined the church, one soul was baptized; various areas of the church ministry were improved. These were frequency of church attendance; personal devotion, reading bible study guide, witnessing, church satisfaction, and sense of being empowered for Total Member Involvement. However, two aspects did not show improvement; these are reading the bible and reading Ellen G. White's books. It is recommended Nyegezi SDA Church Members continue sustaining the revival of the Total Member Involvement approach that has started. More emphasis should be put on reading the bible and Ellen G. White Books as they are the foundation in strengthening the witness of the church. Moreover, South Nyanza Conference (SNC) leadership ought to employ the strategy used in this study as it will help to make more church members join by witnessing and not depending on biological growth only. Lastly, the North Tanzania Union Conference leadership is advised to use the strategy implemented in this study to roll out afresh the Total Member Involvement in all churches using an intervention approach.
Biblical Concept of the State of Woman’s Impurity (Leviticus 15) and Its Application to the Women of Prince of Peace Seventh-day Adventist Church, Dansoman, Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2022-05) Twum-Barimah, Eric
The purpose of this study was to investigate the applicability of the concept of woman’s impurity during a menstruation period in modern settings and develop recommendations on how to address the debatable issues related to this concept at Prince of Peace Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, Dansoman, Ghana. After a presentation of some ancient Near East, Greco-Roman, and Jewish backgrounds, the study looked at purity and impurity issues in the Old and New Testaments. I arrived at the conclusion that ritual or ceremonial purity or impurity, especially as relating to women during menstruation, should not be observed today. The objectives that motivated the study were to investigate why some church members felt and believed that the menstruating woman was impure and could not partake in religious activities. What was the rationale for prohibiting the woman in her menses from approaching her Lord? This study investigated and brainstormed on the type of understanding required to prevent such thoughts that the Old Testament concept of impurity is not applicable to women in a modern setting. This is a historical, biblical, and theological study. Many have written on the topic of purity and impurity, but the researcher narrowed the study to the woman during her menstruation. The study concludes that now that the temple no longer exists so is the issue of purity and impurity. To the Lord, what mattered most was the cleanness and purity of the heart. The study recommends that members of the Prince of Peace SDA Church continue to have a biblical study on the issue of purity and impurity.
Strategies to enhance church planting in Accra Newtown District, Accra City Conference of Seventh-day Adventist, Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-06) Agyenim-Boateng, Eric
The church’s main focus is on planting new churches. When the Lord Jesus Christ was about to ascend to heaven, He gave his disciples the mission to go to make disciples among all peoples (Matt 28:19). Previously he had instructed them that “on this Rock, [that is Jesus Christ], you will build my church” (Matt 16:13ff). On several occasions, Ellen G. White (EGW) emphasized this mandate. White admonished that everywhere we go, we should try to establish a group of Christians who will stand with us in advancing the moral bar and advancing both the rich and the poor. When churches are created, more people will volunteer to work with the poor and outcasts. Do such churches exist today according to the expectations of our Lord in carrying out mission assigned by her Master? To ascertain this reality, the researcher analyzed the mission in Accra North District, of Accra City Conference of Seventh- day Adventist Church. The researcher focused on establishing the level of involvement of members in mission and church planting activities. To establish the situation, the researcher employed mixed methods. Sampled church leaders and members were interviewed in the churches’ involvement in mission. The research established that in the recent past, the district was very committed in church planting, but this passion died off. This has been caused by both internal and external factors. Externally, the growing presence of Muslim and Traditional communities has made the believers not to advance due to lack of proper training in dealing with this people group. Internally there has been some status-quo situation due to lack of funds, bureaucracy, one-man syndrome, misplaced priorities, and language barrier. In addressing these challenges, the researcher developed a mitigation plan that included awareness seminars, trainings, planning for mission with the church leaders and members, and execution of the plan. This process has ascertained those missions possible so long as the church is well prepared and directed in carrying out the Great Commission. Further, the use of proper mission approaches is key in the success of any church planting strategies.
Church Planting as a Strategy for Church Growth in Mfou Seventh-day Adventist Church District, Cameroon
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-11) Bendele, Simon Pierre
Church growth is a divine-human process empowered by the Holy Spirit. Several strategies have produced different results. Accordingly, many scholars consider church planting as an effective church growth strategy. Considering this assertion, the present work was focused on church planting as a strategy for church growth in Mfou Seventh-day Adventist District. The analysis of the problem is based on the literature review of the concepts of church growth and church planting, the biblical and theological analysis. This particular study suggests “Churgrology,” for Mfou District of SDA Church. The study results are built around sustainable church planting, growth, cooperation, kids and youths, families’ and houses, and communities cooperation for church planting growth.
A biblical perspective of inter-religious marriage: Implication for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in New Tafo, Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-11) Fosu Christian
Marriage is in every respect a great concern in every socio-cultural affair and more so in every socio-religious culture. Within the religio-cultural factors is the dynamics of mixed marriage which is well featured in the Scriptures. Though the biblical information concerning mixed marriage is not subpar, the phenomenon still seems unimportant in Christendom today. While Christians could be well informed with the biblical instructions on the subject, it continues to plague many Christian marriages today because of people’s ignorance about it. This is perhaps because the Scriptures’ view concerning mixed marriage still lacks the utmost concern it deserves. It is the deductive conclusion of this research that the concept of mixed marriage is well-featured in the Scriptures. However, the biblical situation under which mixed marriage is featured is in many respects different from the situational underpinnings of mixed marriage in today’s contemporary context. Yet, the knowledge of Scripture about mixed marriage can provide significant guiding principles for what we face today. In other words, the setting within which the Bible discusses mixed marriage seems fairly contemporarily different. However, it can still provide some essential principles on the subject for us today. This research dips into this so-called sensitive issue of mixed marriage which seems outdated today and calls attention to its ignored relevance. It discusses the issue of mixed marriages both in the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT). The project peruses the possible instances of mixed marriages in the Scriptures and evaluates and discusses their implications then and now. The OT has some stern instructions against mixed marriage that should not be ignored. In almost all of the categories of the OT (Pentateuch, Historical Books, and the Prophets), some instances call attention to mixed marriage. The NT has little to say about mixed marriage. However, the issue is well featured in the writings of Paul, particularly in both Corinthian correspondences. The method of discussion features biblical analysis, exegetical analysis, and theological analysis, to bring into perspective the biblical information concerning mixed marriage and its contemporary relevance. The project uncovers the knowledge gap around the issue of mixed marriage and calls attention to scholars’ need to have their contributions felt on the issue.
Strategy to improve financial stewardship in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Nkoranza South District, Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-01) Owusu-Ansah, Job
This project surveyed the pattern of giving offerings in the Nkoranza South District of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. Records and observations revealed that the giving of combined offerings in Nkoranza South District was not satisfactory. This problem is due to inadequate education on combined offering, and the perception that the greater chunk of monies raised in the church goes to the conference while a little is retained in the local church, and noncompliance to the Combined Offering Plan (COP) by both Union and Conference leaders. Also, the members have the misconception that offering is not as sacred as tithe, and that since the giver decides how much to give for offering, giving an offering is not mandatory. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to find out the perceived hindrances to low giving of combined offerings and to find possible solutions, implement and evaluate an effective way to improve financial giving of combined offerings in Nkoranza South District of Mid-North Ghana Conference. To achieve this objective, the researcher used a descriptive method for the research process. Following an investigation of the problem through surveys, interviews, and observations, the researcher designed a stewardship education program to educate the members. The education was carried out from December 7th to December 14th, 2022 in Nkoranza South District. The members' concerns and questions were answered during the education. The study found out that, to improve the giving of financial offerings, both Union and Conference officers must ensure proper education and strict compliance to the COP’s principles without reservation. The conference is to give offering goals to the districts and analyze offering performance alongside tithe performance. The study concluded that the low offering income in the Nkoranza South District is due to non-compliance with the COP’s principles in the area. The study recommends that the whole field follow the COP’s principles without reservation to avoid departmental intermittent fundraisings and crisis giving in the local churches. The union and conference officers are to ensure that members give offering in percentages and that the local churches and districts get what is due them.
A Social Media Evangelistic Program to Reach Out to the 21st Century Youth: A Case Study at Gilead Seventh-day Adventist Church
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-02) Boadu, Edmond Adjei
In the contemporary digital age, social media has emerged as a transformative force, not only in communication but also in religious outreach and evangelism, especially among the youth. Social media platforms provide an unparalleled space for engaging the youth population. This project set out to explore the impact of social media as a means of evangelizing the youth population. By examining the effectiveness, engagement factors, influence, and challenges associated with social media evangelism, this research aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the Seventh-day Adventist Church can effectively utilize social media platforms to engage and inspire the youth in matters of faith and spirituality. A structured questionnaire to assess the effectiveness and reach of social media evangelism among the youth population was designed. Data was collected from members of Gilead Seventh-day Adventist Church and other youth. From this, a social media evangelistic program was designed and implemented. The social media evangelistic program was not only a numerical success but also succeeded in creating a vibrant online community and fostering meaningful engagement. The positive outcomes provided a strong foundation for future evangelistic efforts using social media and this showcased the platform's potential for impactful outreach and community building.
Enhancing Sabbath Worship Experience: A Case Study of Pastoral Leadership among Sea-View Seventh-day Adventist Members in Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-04) Brefo, Eric Atakorah
The research investigates how pastoral leadership enhances Sabbath worship at Sea-View Seventh-day Adventist in Ghana, addressing the challenge of cultural relevance alongside spiritual enrichment. A key theme emerged through qualitative interviews with two pastors and one elder, revealing the importance of incorporating cultural elements, fostering community engagement, and addressing economic challenges within the worship context. The decision to interview two pastors and one elder was strategic and aimed at ensuring a comprehensive perspective on pastoral leadership within the community while adhering to the principle of data saturation. Data saturation was achieved through these interviews, capturing various perspectives and experiences relevant to the research questions. Pastoral leaders play a pivotal role in navigating these complexities, shaping worship experiences, and fostering community cohesion. The study emphasizes the need for adaptive pastoral strategies that respect cultural contexts while upholding spiritual integrity. By identifying these key themes, the research contributes to understanding practical pastoral approaches in culturally diverse settings, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of worship enhancement within Ghana's Sea-View Seventh-day Adventist community.
Strategies to enhance youth involvement in church leadership in the Techiman West District, Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-04) Awuah Maxwell Obour Boateng
This project surveyed the involvement of the youth in church leadership, especially as church elders in the Techiman West District of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. Records and observations have shown that the Techiman West District youth are not adequately recognized and included in district and local church elections for church officers. This problem stems from transferring cultural practices and beliefs into the church. In the local culture, older people traditionally lead family and community affairs. Additionally, there is a misconception among the members that young, unmarried people who are not gainfully employed cannot be elected as church elders because they lack the necessary resources, such as a spouse as well as accommodations to host overnight visitors to the church and also the young people who are not married may fall into sexual sin, which may bring reproach upon the church. Therefore, to safeguard the good name of the church, only adults who are married are elected as church elders. This study aimed to identify the perceived obstacles to youth involvement in church leadership, particularly as church elders. The goal was to suggest practical ways to enhance youth participation in church leadership in the Techiman West District of the Mid-North Ghana Conference of SDA. To accomplish this, the researcher employed a descriptive research method. After investigating the issue through interviews and observations, the researcher developed a questionnaire to gather people's opinions on the studied topic. The study found out that, to improve the involvement of the youth in church leadership in Techiman West District, there is the need to establish youth churches, mentor the youth, and create room for elders and the youth to exchange ideas on the challenges of the youth. Also, the church leaders ought to strengthen Senior Youth Leadership and Master Guide clubs in the churches, train the youth in leadership programs, and empower them to lead in church programs. This will create a friendly relationship between the youth and the elders, promoting church growth and development. The study confirmed that the youth perform better when they serve as church elders than older people. Just as educated young people can lead a nation as president or king and lead in secular organizations, young professionals in the church can also serve as church elders, whether married or single if they have the spiritual qualifications.
A study of the factors affecting members’ participation and strategies to improve their participation in tithe and offering in the Mid-West Ghana Conference, with focus on Berekum West District of Seventh-day Adventist Church
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-05) Aikins, Patrick Courage
This study investigates the factors influencing the remittance of tithe and giving offering in the Berekum West District of the Mid-West Ghana Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It aims to identify challenges affecting members' participation in tithing and offerings, focusing on understanding the underlying reasons behind discrepancies in financial contributions. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. A descriptive survey design was used to gather data from 200 respondents representing ten organized local churches within the district. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and bibliographical searches. Additionally, an eight-week intervention program was implemented to evaluate the impact of strategies to improve voluntary giving patterns. The study revealed various challenges, including perceptions of fund misuse by church leaders, gender-based giving norms, and uneven financial contributions among members. Statistical analysis indicated a gap between tithes and systematic offerings, despite a consistent increase in membership. This suggests a need to address factors hindering members from contributing consistently to church finances. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed to enhance the remitting of tithe and giving offerings within the Berekum West District. These include promoting education on the spiritual significance of giving, gender-neutral practices, financial education, and enhancing communication to foster a deeper understanding and practice of voluntary giving within the district. The study also suggests the establishment of district audit teams for tithe audits and organizing entrepreneurial programs to support financial stewardship. These recommendations aim to strengthen the practice of remitting tithes and giving offerings in the church.
Dealing with non-conforming pastors’ kids: A model of ministry for Seventh-day Adventist pastors’ children in selected conferences of East Kenya Union Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-05) Njeru, Ernest Ireri
Pastors’ children, though brought up in highly religious environments, have the potential of deviating from their family beliefs and disengaging from the church thus impeding the ministry led by their parents to some degree. Despite the fact that these pastoral families grapple with cultural influences and unique family dynamics, some of them have produced Pastors’ Kids (PKs) who have grown up to become a huge blessing to the ministry and an asset to the world at large. However, there are those that have a different storyline – from them have emerged PKs who have been involved in activities outside the expected norm of what their ministerial parents have taught and exemplified. This in turn affects the pastor, the ministry and church mission. To address such, this study aimed at identifying factors which contribute to PKs deviation from their spiritual heritage and thus create a model of ministry for Seventh-day Adventist pastors’ children. Additionally, the study intended to get strategies that can be employed to nurture and retain those PKs in the church and develop support systems to assist those who have dissociated from the church. The study deployed a quantitative research design on a sample of 100 PKs who were 18 years and above. The respondents were sampled using a stratified sampling technique from 4 strata of 25 participants, each from the selected Conferences within East Kenya Union Conference (EKUC). Data from this sample was collected using surveys with questionnaires as the data collection instrument. At the end of the study period, 96 (out of 100) responses were submitted with a 100% completion rate. These responses came from 49 male and 47 female research participants. From the responses, PKs encounter unique challenges that include the pressure to be perfect/ to be the standard, the drain to live under public scrutiny, and the endurance to too many expectations from parents, church members, and the general public. These challenges, coupled with hypocrisy and intolerant attitudes of the older members of the church have led some PKs to disengage from the religious practices and beliefs of their families. To mitigate these challenges, the PKs are to be nurtured, retained, and reclaimed through discipleship in the home and church environments and through psychosocial support with a focus on relationships, loving care, and protection. One of the recommendations in this paper is to conduct quantitative research on a sample population above 100 PKs and employ the use of in-depth interviews (qualitative research design) to understand better this phenomenon of PKs deviation. Additionally, pastoral parents, as role models to the PKs, to take an active role in being involved in the lives of their children. To the church members, it is recommended that an awareness be created of the challenges faced by PKs and ways they can be of support. Lastly, the church organizational levels (such as Conferences and Unions) to strengthen the PKs association for purposes of mentorship and networking of PKs.
A strategy to train local elders to nurture new converts at Emmasdale Seventh-day Adventist Church, Midlands West Zambia Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-05) Manjimela, Evans K.
Despite the significant growth in membership within the church, there remains a challenge in nurturing and integrating new converts into the fabric of the church community. Local elders, as key spiritual leaders, lack structured training programs tailored to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively guide and support new converts in their spiritual journey. Consequently, there was a pressing need to develop a comprehensive strategy for training the elders to fulfill their pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining the spiritual growth of new converts to mature, well-equipped disciples, thereby strengthening the overall vitality and resilience of the church community. Thus, this project reviewed the current practices employed by local church elders at Emmasdale Seventh-day Adventist Church, looked at their specific needs and challenges in nurturing new converts, how they perceive their duty in taking care of newly baptized members, and what strategies they believe would be most effective in fulfilling their role. In the findings, nine themes emerged, namely poor nurturing, resource constraints, lack of a sustainability plan, poor collaboration, lack of modelling, lack of cohesiveness, volunteers, small group ministries, and a sustainability plan. Finally, the project identified the key components of an effective training program for local elders to enhance their skills and capabilities in nurturing new converts.
Developing a model for membership retention in the district of Moronou, Cote d’Ivoire
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-05) N’guessan, Yao
A detailed investigation found that a sizable portion of people who have lapsed or moved away from the Moronou area, Cote d'Ivoire Conference, have either joined Sunday churches, disassociated themselves from all other Christian affiliations, or converted to Islam. It is, therefore, crucial to implement extensive metrics and models created to serve as a guide for the retention of its members as the church sincerely considers effective tactics for growing its membership. This study, therefore, aims to draw data-driven retention strategies using advanced metrics and models to identify membership growth factors and analyze the factors affecting growth for membership stability. Due to the unique challenge of the Moronou district, the study employed key concepts from various reviewed theories to serve as the basis for the theoretical framework. The study was conducted in the Moronou district in the Cote d’Ivoire Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The study employed simple random techniques and sampled 217 members. However, 110 were engaged in the data collection process. Data was gathered using a questionnaire and analyzed using multiple regression and factor analysis. The reliability analysis underscores the robustness of the three constructs in measuring aspects of church engagement and member awareness. The results suggest that the variables—active participation, church involvement, and member awareness—were reliably measured to know appropriate church retention strategies and interventions. The multiple regression analysis found that church involvement and satisfaction, active participation and involvement, and socioeconomic awareness are substantial predictors of religious engagement which formed the basis for framing the retention model. The study informs further research and practical applications in enhancing church engagement strategies and implementation of the membership retention model.

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