Master of Chaplaincy

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    Investigating staff turnover at Babcock University and its implication for chaplaincy services
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2025-03) Oluwaseun Olabode Oladini
    The main aim of the study was to find out the factors affecting staff turnover in Babcock University and to determine what role chaplaincy services can play in the mitigation of this negative trend (high staff turnover). The main objective of the study was to find out the causes of high staff turnover in Babcock University and the role—if any—of chaplains and chaplaincy services in mitigating this negative trend in the institution. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and semi-structured questionnaires were used to obtain data from the specified population of 590 regular staff of Babcock University. Using the normal approximation to the hypergeometric distribution formula, the sample size for the study was found to be 233 respondents. The questionnaire was the main data collection tool for this research study. Analysis of the data was done using descriptive statistics. The data analysis tools included simple tabulations and presentations of the report using spreadsheets and the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0. Data was analyzed using quantitative methods, and presentation of data was in the form of tables. The findings show that the three most significant factors affecting staff turnover in Babcock University are personal issues of individual employees (M = 3.34; SD = 0.71), the need for career advancement (M = 3.32; SD = 0.66), and better job opportunities elsewhere (M = 3.18; SD = 0.62). Other factors affecting turnover are personal commitment to the goals and objectives of the organization, financial renumeration, job satisfaction, and interpersonal issues in the workplace. The study concluded that, whereas the more significant factors affecting staff turnover in the institution cannot be controlled by the administration, other factors such as interpersonal conflicts within the workforce, stress and tension in the workplace, personal/family challenges, issues between employees and the management that also affect the rate of staff turnover can be dealt with by improving and instrumentalizing chaplaincy services on campus. The study recommends that the university administration work closely and intentionally with the workplace chaplains on campus to ensure a peaceful and tension-free workplace that employees enjoy and can work in without constantly battling negative emotions that destroy productivity and give rise to increase in staff turnover.
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    An assessment of factors mitigating against chaplaincy services in Adventist Hospital Ile-Ife of Osun State, Nigeria
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2025-02) Odedeji, Gabriel Olasupo
    In achieving the mission of Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, the church adopts healthcare and spiritual care for patient, patient relatives and clinical staff. The SDA Hospital, Ile-Ife is widely known as a result of the work of Dr. Madgwick who was the health secretary of the general conference at the time, who came to Nigeria in 1939 to conduct a feasibility study to determine an appropriate location for the anticipated medical institution. The SDA hospital at Ile-Ife was foremost healthcare facility established by the church for members of community at large. It at a time cover the space of whole Nigeria as patient comes from all over the regions of Nigeria to access medical care, especially members of the church. In order to achieve its goal, Spiritual work and healthcare have been adopted side by side. With the improvement of healthcare, there is a necessity for professional pastoral caregiving in the hospital. The case in the SDA Hospital at Ile-Ife is unique. The church and hospital management sees the vacuum of needing pastoral caregiver identified as a chaplain which steps were taken to address the need. But it’s not been optimally used because it's sometimes limited to conventional ways of ministry, prayer and devotion, hereby, making it just a "fill in the gap" ministry. Pastors without chaplaincy experience or having undergone clinical pastoral education were posted by the conference to serve as chaplains without formal training. Other aspects of care have been left to the expertise of the medical workers. This call for assessment of healthcare chaplain to identify factors that could be mitigating against chaplaincy services in providing whole person care in the recovery of patients in the hospital. To attain the findings of the research, literature was widely consulted on professional healthcare chaplaincy which presented rise to the qualitative approach in the research. Research questions were intended to determine the factors mitigating against chaplaincy services in SDA Ile Ife. Participant feedback identifies factors limiting chaplaincy services in SDA Hospital Ile Ife, and the need to provide holistic healing for the patient, patient relations and, hospital staff through spiritual and emotional care. This necessitates quick action in the employment of a trained chaplain or training the current chaplain of the hospital who has the calling and qualities of a chaplain to provide adequate spiritual and emotional services beyond prayer which he is known for.
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    The role of Adventist chaplains in providing discipleship, mentorship, and nurturing for Adventist students in public campuses: A study of the University of Lagos, Nigeria
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2025-04) Ayodele A. Salami
    A research recently carried out by Adebowale, of Babcock University shows that, 78% of Adventist students in Public Universities in South Western Nigeria, leave home as well cultured Christians but return back with little or no Interest in Faith based related activities. From researches conducted and documents available so far within this researcher’s disposal, statistics showing the ratio of Adventist Students in public campuses against those in church owned Institutions is worrisome. It is argued that 25% of Adventist youths attend the denominational schools, while 75% attend public schools. It has been observed that most students of the Seventh-day Adventist Church who found themselves in Public or secular institutions of advanced studies do not often enjoy the mentorship, discipleship and nurturing they should as those who attend Church owned institutions. This has become a significant problem and how to help them has been a concern. From both biblical, theological and academic viewpoints, mentorship, discipleship, and nurturing have been identified as key factors in preserving society norms culturally, socially and religiously. The Mentor-Mentee relationship as well as the Teacher- Disciple relationship is a two-way undertaking. Though not much has been written or documented in chaplaincy for Discipleship, Mentorship and nurturing especially from an African Background, the concept has helped young Adventist in secular Campuses to grow their faith, beliefs, culture and doctrinal views and sustain it even while in school away from home and the church. The research findings show that, the church in south-west Nigeria and Lagos in particular has not done enough in providing an intentional Discipleship, Mentorship and Nurturing for the Adventist Students on secular campuses. Although there appeared to be a structure to provide mentorship, discipleship and nurturing for Adventist students on public campuses, those in secular campuses are most times not being cared for. The students sometimes get pluralized by philosophical views from other faiths about their own beliefs and as a result, some of them become less concerned about church and faith issues. Others become indifferent over differences in belief systems. There is a need for the church in Lagos to declare a state of emergency on public campus ministry within her territories to help provide spiritual care to young Seventh-day Adventist Students who find themselves studying in public campuses in Lagos and Nigeria at large. Professional training and intentional projects should be considered in helping these young people stay focused and true to their identity while away from home. Mentorship and discipleship programs for inclusivity are needed by the church within those institutions.
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    Juvenile delinquency among students in faith-based universities: Implications for chaplaincy services at Babcock University
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2025-03) Okan-Gbenedio, Gift O.
    Our society today is enveloped in crime, with juvenile crimes also rising rapidly. Dowell observed that juvenile crime has infested the society today with notorious criminals since they were not decisively taken care of. Juvenile delinquency which refers to the acts of committing crime at a very young age is ravaging human societies today. This explains why some parents prefer to send their children to faith-based institutions rather than secular ones, seeking better character development and societal values. However, recent events in faith-based institutions are showing increased incidents of juvenile delinquency. Babcock University was taken as a case study to ascertain the hypothesis that juvenile delinquency is prevalent in faith-based institutions, which has significant implications for chaplaincy ministry. The academic world provides insight into juvenile delinquency, highlighting its prevalence and the negative impact it has had on various societies and communities. Juvenile courts exist to deal with juvenile crises. Researchers have identified multiple factors contributing to juvenile delinquency and have proposed some strategies to address this crisis. This research was carried out via a mixed method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques. The result of this research shows a significant prevalence of juvenile delinquency in faith-based institutions of learning and Babcock University in particular, with grave implications for chaplaincy services.
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    Causes of spiritual decline among Adventist students in selected public universities at Eldoret, Kenya
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2025-03) Birgen, Wilson Kipkosgei
    This study investigated the factors influencing Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) students' attendance of church services in selected public universities, focusing on students at the University of Eldoret, Moi University campuses located in Eldoret. The two campuses are Annex Campus and the School of Medicine at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital. The study objectives were to identify the causes of spiritual decline among Adventist students in institutions of higher learning. Second, to recommend the strategies of retaining, maintaining spirituality of the public institutions of learning in Eldoret, Kenya Random sampling was employed to obtain a sample of 196 Adventist students who participated, with data collected through questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that most participants were male, aged 18 22, in their second year, and had been baptized three years ago or more during the time of the study. While the majority of SDA students in public universities were baptized at home churches and had prior church responsibilities. Although 92% of respondents reported at tending church regularly, key reasons for absenteeism included lack of motivation or termed laziness and competing social activities on the Sabbath. Additionally, peer pressure and lack of mentorship contributed to non attendance among students' friends. N otably, 60% of participants acknowledged spiritual decline due to irregular church attendance, with 51.9% perceiving similar effects among their peers. However, university experiences such a church of environment from home to university did not significant ly impact church attendance, while discipleship programs such as mentorship were found to enhance spiritual growth. The study recommends that chaplaincy ministries implement structured mentorship programs tailored for SDA students since this program enhanc e attendance, hence spiritual decline. Addressing peer pressure is one way of reducing spiritual decline, addressing this during discipleship programs enhance d church attendance. Chaplaincy should advise students during mentorship programs to abstain from worldly Sabbath activities. Strengthening discipleship programs, increasing engagement in church activities, and fostering a supportive spiritual environment can help SDA students maintain their faith while balancing academic and social demands.
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    The chaplain’s role in the effective care and healing of patients and its implications for the Seventh-day Adventist Hospital in Asawinso, Ghana
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2024-05) Amankwah, Michael
    This thesis explores the role of chaplains in the effective care and healing of patients, specifically within the Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital in Asawinso, Ghana. The problem addressed is the underdeveloped integration of chaplaincy services in healthcare, despite their potential benefits for patient care and recovery. The study employs a qualitative, phenomenological approach, gathering data through surveys, interviews, and observations of patients, chaplains, and healthcare staff. The Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital in Asawinso has contributed significantly to physical healthcare. However, the role of chaplains remains underappreciated and underutilized, affecting patient care and recovery outcomes. This study aims to clarify and articulate the chaplain’s role in healthcare, addressing this gap. Data were collected using purposive sampling of 50 patients, focusing on their experiences and perceptions of chaplaincy services. Semi-structured interviews and observations provided rich, qualitative insights into the impact of chaplaincy on patient care. The data were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed to identify recurring themes and patterns. The study revealed that chaplains play a crucial role in providing spiritual and emotional support, significantly contributing to patient well-being and recovery. Patients who engaged with chaplains reported better-coping mechanisms and a sense of peace, aligning with previous research that highlights the positive impact of spiritual care on health outcomes. Chaplains also played a vital role in integrating spiritual care with organizational goals, advocating for patient dignity, and documenting spiritual assessments and care plans. The study also provides a basis for further research on the impact of chaplaincy services in other healthcare settings.
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    A Development of a Workable Chaplaincy Service in Nyacyina Secondary School, Rwanda
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2023-08) Ntabumwe, Schadrack
    The chaplaincy services are considered in many schools to bring spiritual care not only to students, but also to teachers, parents, and administrators. The purpose of the study was therefore to develop a workable chaplaincy service in Nyacyina Secondary School. To address this issue, qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. A descriptive survey design based on the questionnaire, interview and focus group discussion was used to collect data from teachers, school administrators, students, and parents to fulfill the purpose of the study. The findings revealed that most respondents either do not understand chaplaincy and its role in the school, either do not know anything about it. Therefore, there was a need to conduct a seminar on the meaning and the role of chaplaincy. The study recommended to hire a school chaplain.
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    A Strategy to Enhance Chaplaincy Service at Tanzania Adventist Secondary School, North Tanzania Union Conference
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2024-03) Mmamba, Aston Jackson
    Statement of the Problem The researcher’s observational evidence shows that, TASS lacks effective chaplaincy services. It shows that, RVTF considers that a pastor with theology degree is equivalent to professional chaplain. That is why, since its inception in 2001 to date, school chaplains have been pastors with theology and not trained chaplains, thus pastors holding school chaplaincy ministry have been performing duties that are more disciplinary and bible knowledge teaching, leaving the core duties of school chaplains. This has caused the school face challenges like students’ immoral behavior and poor academic performance, for example in 2016, TASS were among the last 10 schools nationwide in National Advanced Secondary Examination (NASE) administered by the National Examinational Council of Tanzania (NECTA). Methodology This is applied research as it seeks for ways to enhance chaplaincy services at TASS. For the aim of applied research is to find a solution for an immediate problem facing a society, an institution, or a business organization. The study adopted a mixed methods approach, blending qualitative focus group interview, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), observation and quantitative questionnaires. The reason of adopting the mixed methods approach is that, one method is insufficient to grasp the reality of state of affairs. Two methods blended together complement each other by filling in the weakness of one another, hence coming up with correct and better results. Focus-group interview was carried out to assess the present status of chaplaincy services at TASS. A chaplaincy strategy was used to make awareness on professional chaplaincy (involving chaplain academic qualification prior to employment, duties and standards). While Quantitative questionnaires and qualitative FGDs were used to assess the impact of a strategy to enhance chaplaincy services at TASS. Study population refers to an entire group about which some information is required to be ascertained. The population of the study from which the sample was taken totaled to 310 people in which 250 were TASS students including their leaders, the remaining number included TASS Adcom members, TASS board member, RVTC officers and education director. A sample is group of people, objects or items that are taken from a large population for a measurement. It should be representative of the population to ensure that we can generalize the findings from the research sample to the population as a whole. I used stratified random sampling which is used where the population is divided into strata (or subgroups) and random sample is taken from each subgroup. Where by 31 participants were random taken as a sample from the population totaled 310. TRVF officers were 3, TRVF educational director was 1, members from TASS Administrative committee were 5, Members of TASS board 5, students’ leaders were 5 and students were 10. Findings The general findings indicated that, there is a necessity to enhance chaplaincy ministry at TASS. The targeted population opined that, the current school chaplaincy should pursue chaplaincy training and that the TRVF should sponsor him for the same. Further, it was opined that, TRVF should hire another pastor for bible teaching and dealing with church services at the school to lessen the burden of the current school chaplain, hence enabling him to deal with chaplaincy professional roles. Furthermore, the study showed that, a standard school chaplaincy facilitates the implementation of the philosophy of Adventist education. Contribution to Knowledge The study contributed knowledge to targeted population in the following ways; I. It was known that; school chaplaincy is necessary in fulfilling the philosophy of Adventist education. The Seventh-day Adventist philosophy of education holistically targets on the balanced growth of the physical, spiritual, mental, social, and emotional areas of every student. II, finally the participants became aware of the difference between the functions of a pastor and a chaplain and educational qualification of a chaplain; this indicates that, the strategy brought a change in the understanding of the participants. III, the study showed that, there is the need for a professional chaplain at TASS to perform chaplaincy roles.
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    Raising awareness about emotional intelligence and its impact on Seventh-day Adventist school chaplaincy ministry services in the Central Kenya Conference
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2024-03) Macharia, Geoffrey Waweru
    Emotional intelligence (EI) stands as a cornerstone in the realm of effective chaplaincy services, especially within the context of educational institutions. This project comprehensively investigates the intricate correlation between EI and chaplaincy ministry in virtue of educational realm of Seventh-day Adventist institutions in the Central Kenya Conference (CKC). Unraveling the historical journey of chaplaincy in the East Kenya Union Conference provides a backdrop for understanding the various dynamics of Seventh-day Adventist School Chaplaincy in CKC. A central focus is placed on the practical application of EI in CKC’s Seventh-day Adventist school chaplaincy, uncovering its profound impact on conflict resolution and overall efficacy. Weaving biblical foundations into the fabric of EI, the research harmonizes scriptural insights with contemporary psychological theories. Culminating in practical strategies, the thesis addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within Seventh-day Adventist schools, aiming to seamlessly integrate EI into chaplaincy practices. This interdisciplinary exploration seeks to raise awareness of EI’s transformative role in the context of chaplaincy ministry services within the CKC. The study concludes by offering actionable recommendations for the enhanced integration of EI, thereby meeting its objectives of illuminating the vital link between EI and chaplain’s job performance within CKC’s chaplaincy landscape.
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    Nurturing of the new converts into disciples of Christ in Najjanankumbi Young Christian School, Central Uganda Conference
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2023-08) Musaasizi, Joel
    This project explored the ideal biblical and theological principles for being and making disciples of Christ and how this discussion relates to the problem of nurturing newly baptized members in the Najjanankumbi Young Christian School. The investigation contains six Chapters, whereby the first one described the road map of the whole project, stating the problem and purpose. Chapters two and three aimed at setting the context for the discussion by generating the biblical and theological principles of nurturing and discipleship. These chapters illuminated the fact that discipleship is made through intentional and interpersonal relationships. The models that came from Chapters two and three were considered the ideal means of making disciples. The fourth chapter described the process followed in conducting this survey. It described the ministerial context of the research, defining the macro and micro setting of the project; project design; measures indicating the demographic features and instruments employed to collect data; and data collection, analysis, and interpretation for both the quantitative and qualitative phases. The fifth chapter looked at the proposed intervention strategies to push the existing nurturing programs closer to the ideal principles suggested in Chapters two and three. In this respect, the marks of Jesus’ life in the perspective of growth in worship, growth in fellowship, and growth in witnessing were the answer to the research problem of Najjanankumbi Young Christian School. The proposed strategies were implemented, tested, evaluated during the course of training and were promising to make Christ like disciples. Chapter six rounded up the study by summarizing the concept of discipleship and the importance of biblical and theological nurturing principles as reflected in Chapters 2 and 3. As potential agents of discipleship, Church schools like Najjanankumbi Young Christian were highlighted as next to none in satisfying the task of the church. It is anticipated that the strategic principles developed be used as a practical model for training disciple makers and a reference to aid the chaplaincy department to make disciples of Christ not only within Young Christian School, but also in countless Christian schools, colleges, organizational work places in Central Uganda Conference and Uganda Union in general.
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    Theological Foundations of Chaplaincy Intervention in Child Upbringings for Students and Staff in Crisis at Babcock University High School, Nigeria.
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2022-06) Azorondu, Peter Ndukwe
    The persistence on criticism and social rejection in our African communities poses lots of challenges to children with disciplinary issues and their parents. As they seek care and compassion in the school, they sometimes experience further failure reminders that lead to depleted sense of worth and feelings of social neglect. The secretive pain they experience make their grieving to be incomplete. There is need for evaluation of chaplaincy services that will holistically address the needs of such children. Thus, the purpose of this study was to accentuate the value of chaplaincy services at Babcock University Staff School. Ten children with their parents and ten chaplains were interviewed using semi-structured in-depth interviews. The researcher adopted a qualitative paradigm. The investigator utilized phenomenological and ethnographical approaches in arriving at the conclusions. Giorgi’s approach was used in analysing the data. Several children and parents in this study experienced many negative emotions that made them feel worthless. They could not conform in the company of other children who had better upbringing and discipline records. They also felt like social rejects under the eye lenses of the community and often attributed their situation to being spiritually and environmentally induced. Being compassionate in correcting and handling the children with disciplinary issues was seen as essential. This included the selection of words for addressing these children and their parents. Adequate counselling was viewed as imperative for the children and also for the teachers who oftentimes used abusive words on the children. Education and awareness were seen as very useful in lowering the stigma attached to this challenge. The continuous use of chaplaincy services for care-giving in Babcock University High School was comprehended as indispensable, if these children were to receive holistic child care.
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    The chaplain’s role in the effective care and healing of patients and its implications for Seventh-day Adventist Hospital in Asawinso, Ghana
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2024-05) Amankwah, Michael
    This thesis explores the role of chaplains in the effective care and healing of patients, specifically within the Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital in Asawinso, Ghana. The problem addressed is the underdeveloped integration of chaplaincy services in healthcare, despite their potential benefits for patient care and recovery. The study employs a qualitative, phenomenological approach, gathering data through surveys, interviews, and observations of patients, chaplains, and healthcare staff. The Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital in Asawinso has contributed significantly to physical healthcare. However, the role of chaplains remains underappreciated and underutilized, affecting patient care and recovery outcomes. This study aims to clarify and articulate the chaplain’s role in healthcare, addressing this gap. Data were collected using purposive sampling of 50 patients, focusing on their experiences and perceptions of chaplaincy services. Semi-structured interviews and observations provided rich, qualitative insights into the impact of chaplaincy on patient care. The data were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed to identify recurring themes and patterns. The study revealed that chaplains play a crucial role in providing spiritual and emotional support, significantly contributing to patient well-being and recovery. Patients who engaged with chaplains reported better-coping mechanisms and a sense of peace, aligning with previous research that highlights the positive impact of spiritual care on health outcomes. Chaplains also played a vital role in integrating spiritual care with organizational goals, advocating for patient dignity, and documenting spiritual assessments and care plans. The study also provides a basis for further research on the impact of chaplaincy services in other healthcare settings.
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    Students’ perception of the role of chaplains at Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
    (Adventist University of Africa, 2023-10) Oluwafunmilayo, Dorcas Adegbenle
    Chaplains are trained to provide spiritual care and support in different settings, such as schools, hospitals prisons, military and so on. A setting such as Babcock University, a faith-based higher Institution of learning encourages the services of chaplains for students, staff and faculty. The students at Babcock University experience the services of the chaplain in various areas of the school, hospitals, worship center and hostels. Many students visit the chaplain’s office for citizenship grade issues and few for spiritual care. It appears some of the students seem to have misconception about the role of the chaplain which may have prevented them to visit the office of the chaplain for spiritual help. The citizenship grade is being generated at the worship centre through worship attendance record using biometric. The grading system is based on A-F and scores of 0-100%. Undergraduate students with low grade will face the consequence. The consequence is to visit the chaplaincy office and engage in community service to discourage such behaviour. The research was conducted to study the students’ perception of the role of chaplain. The research was conducted among 362 undergraduate resident students of Babcock University and find out about their perception on the role of school chaplain. This sample size was determined by Raosoft Calculator. The research methodology used is descriptive qualitative research using a designed questionnaire with thirty-one research questions on Likert 5 -point scale of strongly disagree, disagree, neutral, agree and strongly agree to collect data. Data analysis was carried out on IBM SPSS version 26 with tables and figures to show the result. The findings of this study revealed that the perception of the undergraduate students on the role of the school chaplain is that; the chaplains are spiritual caregivers, who provide guidance and support in times of spiritual needs. The findings convinced the researcher that the undergraduate students understand the role of the chaplain. Perhaps some other reasons are responsible for the behaviour of the undergraduate students for visiting the office of the chaplain for citizenship grade issues rather than spiritual help. For future purpose there is need to understand the behaviour and the attitude of the undergraduate students visiting the office of the chaplain for citizenship grade issues rather than spiritual help.
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    Benefits of having an institutional place of worship : a case study of MUHAS and Dodoma universities, Tanzania
    (Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2020-05) Mbuguru, Hamisi Rajabu
    Although Adventist students at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) at Dar es Salaam in Tanzania are being allowed to worship within the University facilities, they do not have a dedicated place for worship. Because of this, the researcher found that there was a need for students to establish a place dedicated for worship at MUHAS and to recommend the benefits of having a dedicated place of worship. The researcher studied one major group of the Adventist students that study at MUHAS main campus to verify the need and benefits of having a place dedicated to worship. The researcher studied the spiritual life of the Adventist students while they are at MUHAS and observed the need for a dedicated place of worship. The researcher developed a questionnaire, conducted seminars and interviews and the result showed that students have to establish the need and benefits of having a dedicated place of worship at MUHAS. Most students indicated that they need a place dedicated to worship at MUHAS because it will have more benefits for their spiritual needs. There are more benefits for students to have a place dedicated for worship at MUHAS than for them going to the local churches that surround MUHAS at Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
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    The influence of effective campus chaplaincy on student character formation at Kongowe Adventist Primary School, South-East Conference, Tanzania
    (Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2020-09) Mafwimbo, Wilfred
    In recent years the Seventh-day Adventist denomination has become more aware of the importance of campus chaplaincy concerning character formation hence the presence of campus chaplains in most schools. However, there has been a scarcity of studies dealing with the issue. This project was to develop and train school administration, teachers, and pupils on the importance of being supportive of chaplaincy work concerning character formation. A theological undergirding for this project was developed from the biblical motif of the ministry of presence that pervades the entire Old Testament where it was seen God was a chaplain in Edenic school, Abraham was clan chaplain in his conflict with Lot; Elisha was a chaplain in the schools of prophets; Daniel was a Chief of Staff chaplain in courts of Babylon. In the New Testament the ministry of presence has depicted Jesus as a Chaplain of chaplains especially in the gracious ways he dealt with the Samaritan woman and Nicodemus. The literature review further indicated that four institutions involve chaplaincy, i.e., the military, healthcare, prisons, and campus chaplaincy. In all of these, campus ministries are least researched both in Tanzania and elsewhere. The field research findings indicated that the issue of character formation cannot stand-alone without the support of school administration, teachers, and pupils. The specific findings show the school administration was not supportive by not building the school church and equipping the library with the Spirit of Prophecy books; the teachers were not integrating faith and learning and pupils were not seeing any importance in reading Bibles and spirit of prophecy books. The study structured a one-month intervention to Administration, Teachers, and Pupils around the determining issues. As a result of this study, the school administration became aware of the need to build a school church and equip the library with Spirit of Prophecy books; the teachers became aware of the importance to integrate faith and learning and pledged to begin doing so; the pupils became aware on the importance of reading and owning Spirit of prophecy books because they have a crucial role in character formation.
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    A wholistic mentorship program to meet the spiritual needs of students at Bulawayo Adventist High School, Zimbabwe
    (Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2020-05) Mthokozisi, Dube
    Mentorship is fundamental when confronting students’ social and emotional challenges. Rising cases of child pregnancies, abortion, alcohol and substance abuse, in addition to reports of sexual orgies and increasing sexual vulnerability of students pose a challenge to the church and community regarding how to curb these alarming trends in Zimbabwean schools. The absence of spiritual mentors is evident. As a result, some students, failing to cope or deal with the guilt and shame brought by their behaviour, have contemplated committing suicide or dropping out of school altogether. This study represents a program development design research which introduces the study with the situational analysis of the area of study. Chapter two presented biblical and theological foundations for a High School mentoring program and chapter 3 reviewed relevant literature on the subject. Chapter four is mixed method research design. In-depth personal interviews and focus group interviews were conducted and a questionnaire administered to students to validate the qualitative research. Chapter five is a description of the program developed to address the challenges, based upon the theological, theoretical and field researches conducted and how it was implemented and evaluated. Chapter six is a summary, conclusion and recommendations. The mentorship program resulted in much-improved school connectedness among students. Students who participated in the program as compared to those who did not were found to have increased self-awareness were more prepared to deal with social challenges as well as increased self-esteem. Teachers, too, were better able to relate to the students as a result of their participation in the program. The program presents a model that could be replicated in other similar schools with similar results. It details specific steps that could be taken to implement the program and how to evaluate the program.
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    The impact of professional healthcare chaplains on patients' recovery nature in Jengre Seventh-day Adventist Hospital, Nigeria
    (Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2020-05) Nuhu, Benjamin Yemson
    Spiritual care and health work are twins, as far as the missionary work is concerned with the Seventh-day Adventist Church in northern Nigeria. The hospital in Jengre is known far and near as a result of the work of the western missionary J. J. Hyde and his wife who was a nurse. The hospital has at some point in time, been the major health facility for the people around the community. Spiritual work and healthcare have been carried along, side by side. With the advancement of healthcare, there is a need for professional spiritual care giving in the hospital. In Jengre SDA Hospital, the work of the spiritual caregiver known as a chaplain, has been reduced to that of prayer and devotion thereby, making it just a “fill in the gap” ministry. There is no institutionalized chaplaincy, all aspects of care, have been left to the proficiency of the medical personnel. There is the need to measure the impact, professional health care Chaplains play in whole-person care and the recovery of patients in the hospital.To arrive at the findings of the research, a range of literature on professional healthcare chaplaincy was consulted which gave rise to the qualitative approach in the research. An experiment was carried out over four months with a research population of 50 patients whose diagnosis turned out in the majority, to be organ-related ailments. The literature gathered provided a range of views and understanding about the professional practice of healthcare chaplaincy, its origin, development, and achievement over the years. The experiment was possible because ten volunteers were trained with professional knowledge of healthcare chaplaincy to help in the experimental procedures. Five were selected after a month’s training out of the ten who showed good qualities of a chaplain. These were selected for the major work as volunteer Chaplains in the experiment process. For four months, the trained volunteers worked with different patients who were grouped randomly into two, classified as (group X1), treatment group, and (group X2) control group. Data were collected through two types of scorecards which have fifteen items on each, to guide the volunteers. The chaplains assessed the patients in both groups from the volunteer chaplain’s score care card, as well as the patients’ response to the services of the chaplains on the patients’ response card. This provides the researcher with a tool for effective data gathering, and a simple percentage data finding with a yes, or no, as a response to each item on the scorecard. After the training of the volunteers that lasted for six weeks helping them to acquire basic healthcare chaplaincy skills for bedside ministry, the volunteer chaplains went into work with the two groups X1 (treatment group), and X2 (control group). One of the groups X1(treatment) was provided with adequate spiritual care from the volunteers, while group X2(control), was provided with, medical care alone.At the end of the study after four months, the study shows that patients who were cared for, both by the trained chaplains, and medical personnel, recover faster than those in group X2 who were cared for by the medical personnel alone. This further shows that professional healthcare chaplains play a vital role in the recovery nature of patients in Jengre SDA Hospital. It is important to provide a holistic approach to healthcare in Jengre SDA Hospital. There are occasions where doctors cannot effectively administer a treatment that will yield results as some phenomenon health challenges, may defy medical knowledge and experiment. The need for a trained or professional spiritual caregiver (chaplain) in the hospital is urgent and important, to provide whole-person care to patients in the hospital. The care of the mind and the spirit, go a long way in helping in emotional, and physical recovery.
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    A strategy for improving chaplaincy services in Mbeya Adventist Secondary School, Southern Tanzania Union
    (Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2020-03) Mwimo, Amina Abrahamani
    The observation indicates that there has never been a professional/trained chaplain at Mbeya Adventist Secondary School (MASS) since its inception in 2014. It seems that the Southern Highland Conference (SHC) assumes that a Pastor who has received theological training is qualified to be a school chaplain. Due to a lack of formal training in chaplaincy, the pastor performs typical pastoral duties, such as preaching, supervising the school worship schedule, serving as a member of the school discipline Committee, and organizing and supervising the school choir. The core chaplain responsibilities—providing spiritual and emotional care through the ministry of presence (journeying with students and staff through their problem), empathetic listening, counseling, managing crisis, and dealing with big events of human life like death and divorce remain unattended. Also, the lack of a trained chaplain at MASS seems to leave the school in crisis. Anecdotally, MASS students seem to be increasingly involved in risky behaviors such as truancy and sexual immorality. This case study project adopted a qualitative research design. Both the interview and focus group approaches were used. An in-depth interview was conducted to understand the current state of chaplaincy ministry at MASS; while a seminar was conducted to disseminate information regarding the core chaplain qualifications and responsibilities. A focus group approach was used to elicit information regarding the impact of the seminar and develop a strategy on ways to improve chaplaincy at MASS. The study population comprised of MASS board members, administration, school pastor, students’ leaders, and SHC officers. The overall outcome of the study showed the need to improve chaplaincy at MASS. The participants were of the view that SHC should hire professional a chaplain or the current school chaplain should undergo chaplaincy training to the necessary roles professionally, and that the SHC needs to hire a Pastor to deal with church programs and teach Bible knowledge to reduce the workload of the chaplain.
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    Development of a chaplaincy ministry that impacts wholistic healthcare in Tamale Adventist Hospital, Ghana
    (Adventist University of Africa, Theological Seminary, 2021-04) Hakim, Yakubu Ishmael
    The Adventist Hospital in Tamale has an untrained chaplain; and Developing a plan could enhance wholistic healthcare. This study developed, implemented, tested and evaluated, a Spiritual Master Plan (SMP) and its impact on Wholistic Healthcare. The research design was quantitative research method; using simple random and clustered sampling procedures to study 70 patients and workers. Also, Nathan’s Spiritual Model, and Health theories were used to develop the SMP. Fifteen workers were sampled using regression analysis and paired sampled t-test analysis for the post-implementation evaluation. The results showed a relationship between the SMP and Wholistic healthcare (0.3< r <0.6.) and (F14=4.8, p<0.05). Wholistic Healthcare becomes stagnant when there was no SMP (95% CI [7.166, 20434]), Β (0.5),suggesting efficacy as compared to the SMP before the study. Thus, recommended as a resource for the Tamale Adventist Hospital and GAHS facilities.