Master of Divinity (For graduates without theological background)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/799

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Factors Causing Poverty Among the Retired Clergy in Mityana Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2019-10-25) Richard Mulindwa
The consequences of poverty have historically been recognized by the church, which like other organizations been at the helm of alleviating poverty. In the entire Old Testament tradition, poverty is regarded as a scandalous condition that should never exist in the land because it may force one to steal and bring disgrace to God (Proverbs 30:9). What should be noted however is the fact that some of the clergy who spread the above mentioned messages are also living in non-adorable conditions, contrary to what the Biblical stand is regarding the Levites and this has been found to be true especially among the retired clergy in Mityana diocese. Prior to this study however, there was a scanty literature related to poverty and its influencing factors among retired clergy, the literature has been cited in generic terms tackling retirees in general. Three objectives i.e. To investigate the Individual and diocesan related factors influencing poverty among the retired clergy in Mityana diocese, To explore the prevailing living condition of the retired clergy in Mityana diocese and To suggest what the diocese can do to improve the lives of the retired clergy guided the study. The study findings revealed that Poverty rates are high among the retired clergy in Mityana diocese and this is manifested in the inability of the retired clergy to afford and access health care, inability to obtain basic needs and living in dilapidated houses. It’s on the basis of the study findings that the researcher adopts an amendment to reduce clergy retirement age to 55 years to allow for retirement with enough vigor to more productively and one to carry out business ventures. The church through the directorate of education could also consider inculcating a unit on entrepreneurship in the current theological training curriculum. That will not only inculcate entrepreneurship skills among the to-be clergy but also stimulate them to start up enterprises before or after training.
An Investigation of the Church’s Response to Premarital Sex: With Specific Reference to Rugyeyo Archdeaconry, Diocese of Kinkiizi of the Anglican Church of Uganda (2013-2023)
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-08-22) Naume Kanyesigye
This study aimed at investigating the church’s response to premarital sex with specific reference to Rugyeyo Archdeaconry, Kinkiizi Diocese of the Anglican Church of Uganda. The study was guided by the following objectives: finding out the causes of premarital sex in Rugyeyo Archdeaconry, examining the effects of premarital sex in Rugyeyo Archdeaconry and establishing the Church’s response to the problem of premarital sex in Rugyeyo Archdeaconry, Diocese of Kinkiizi. The descriptive research design was used: both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were utilized. Data was collected using a questionnaire and interviews with the teenagers, their parents, the Church leaders (the Clergy and the Lay Readers). The Probation Officer and some Police Officers in Rugyeyo Archdeaconry, Diocese of Kinkiizi were also interviewed. The causes encompass socio-economic disparities, peer pressure, lack of awareness, emotional vulnerabilities, and external influences, reflecting the intricate interplay of various factors driving teenagers towards premarital sexual relationships. The effects range from early marriages with potential developmental setbacks, increased abortions and health risks, stigmatization, high birth rates with fatherless children, high school dropouts, to loss of self-respect, and exacerbated poverty. These effects emphasize the urgent need for holistic interventions that can support education, healthcare, empowerment, and emotional well-being. The Church's responses highlight a multi-dimensional approach encompassing spiritual guidance, education, counseling, empowerment, community engagement, and policy advocacy. In conclusion, these findings collectively emphasize the importance of tailored, collaborative efforts that address the root causes, mitigate the far-reaching effects, and create a nurturing environment where teenagers can make informed, responsible decisions about their relationships and sexual health. Finally, the study recommended implementing comprehensive sexual education programs to provide teenagers with holistic knowledge and life skills. It suggests integrating practical tools with spiritual guidance through workshops and counseling, promoting responsible decision-making. Collaboration with local authorities is advised to ensure accessible healthcare services, reducing health risks. Community awareness campaigns should challenge stigmatization, while employment opportunities and vocational training can address economic pressures.
The Role and Significance of Bishop Amos Betungura in the Growth and Development of Ankole Diocese 1970-1992
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-01) Job Anzimurire
ABSTRACT This study aimed at assessing the role and significance of Bishop Amos Betungura in the growth and development of Ankole Diocese from 1970 to 1992. The study was guided by the following objectives: establishing Bishop Amos Betungura’s early life and church ministry; examining Bishop Amos Betungura’s contributions towards church leadership in Ankole Diocese; and assessing Bishop Amos Betungura’s vision for Ankole Diocese. The study adopted a qualitative, descriptive approach that utilized content analysis. Secondary sources of information from the UCU Old Library and St.James Cathedral, Ruharo, and Mbarara were used. The study findings revealed that Amos Betungura, a man elevated from a poor home background in Rwampara district, contributed a lot to Ankole Diocese in particular and Uganda at large. In his religious and academic circles, Amos served Ugandan society wholeheartedly for twenty-two years, from 1970 to 1992, as bishop of Ankole Diocese. As regards his church ministry, Amos strived to uplift religious work in the diocese; he established theological colleges and emphasized more training in other trades for a future and better church. He is well known for having trained clergy, crowned many canons, and increased the number of archdeaconries and parishes in the diocese. Economically, Amos established projects like the diocesan ranch, carpentry, health centers, hostels, afforestation, grain mills, a vocational institute, and a church community center that have contributed to the development of the diocese. It can therefore be concluded that Bishop Amos Betungura attained great achievements as a Bishop of Ankole in his tenure, although he also faced some challenges like any other person. It can also be concluded that his vision for the Church has been achieved to a great extent by the people he left in charge, especially his predecessors, although much more needs to be done to fully achieve his vision for the church. Therefore, it is recommended that Ankole Diocese continue to build on the foundation that Bishop Betungura laid during his tenure. Ankole Diocese should also continue to foster this spirit of collaboration with various stakeholders, such as the government, NGOs, and other religious denominations, to ensure sustainable development. Ankole Diocese should also continue to prioritize education by providing scholarships, improving school infrastructure, and hiring qualified teachers. Finally, Ankole Diocese should continue to support programs that empower communities economically, such as microfinance, agriculture, and vocational training.
The Influence of Clergy Selection and Training on the Mission of the Church in the Province of Uganda: A Case of the Diocese of Kampala, Southern Archdeaconry
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-04) Florence Tayebwa Matama Muhwezi
The mission of the church constitutes its centerpiece and therefore deserves utmost attention from its custodians, the spirit in which this study was conceived. The study investigated the understanding of the mission of the church, strategies of Clergy selection and training and an assessment of the influence of the Clergy selection and training approaches on the Mission of the Church in the Diocese of Kampala. A case study design was used involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches with sample size of 45 respondents. Data was collected using both simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaire survey, interviews and observation with their corresponding tools were the methods of data collection. Quantitative data was presented and analyzed using descriptive statistics while thematic analysis was used to present and compute qualitative results. Findings revealed that ministerial formation in the Diocese of Kampala was initiated by a strict policy-oriented panel that executed its mandate through excellence-driven interviews. Thereafter, the successful candidates were enrolled for theological studies in Church of Uganda approved Seminaries/institutions that treasure academic excellence too. Interestingly, most people in the Diocese of Kampala believed that upholding the Mission of the church was largely the role of the Bishop, Clergy, and top Church Administrators. This was found to be quite burdensome to the Priesthood but did not threaten the mission of the church in the short run. Church leadership was found to be male dominated, yet women played a very significant and active role in the pursuit of the mission of the church such as in prayer and children’s church ministry. Most people in the Diocese of Kampala were found to have the right perspective of ecclesiology but in practice, they appeared to be very inward looking and consumed with the wellbeing of their individual congregations. Furthermore, the Diocese of Kampala perceived the mission of the church largely to be the preaching of the gospel and evangelism. Discipleship and social action were very low on their conceptualisation of the mission of the church. The study recommends that the Diocese considers deliberate mentoring and apprenticeship in shorter or theological education by extension among other approaches as options besides the long theological studies. Church leaders in Diocese must and should deliberately revisit policy and strategy to better engage and ensure meaningful participation of the laity in the pursuit of the mission of the church and make intentional effort to harmonise the divergence between their perception of ecclesiology and practice. In a nutshell, ministerial formation in the Diocese of Kampala was largely through formal seminary theological education. This was reported to produce ministers considered to be effective in pursuing the mission of the church at least in the short run. However, a deliberate effort was needed to equip and involve more laity through mentorship and short theological training to ensure sustainability of ministry that pursues and sustains the mission of the church.
The Influence of Pentecostal Preaching on the Growth of Faith Among Christian Youth in Kampala City-Diocese of Kampala
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-05) Brian Nsubuga
The study assessed the influence of Pentecostal preaching on the growth of faith among Christian youth in Kampala city-diocese of Kampala. The purpose of the study was to assess spiritual growth in faith of youth based on true and genuine worship as established by the Bible. This was further achieved by the objectives of the study which were; to establish the nature of preaching in the Pentecostal churches, to analyze the effects (positive & negative) of Pentecostal Preaching to the youth and to assess the contribution of Pentecostal preaching to the growth of faith of the youths. This study was carried in the Diocese of Kampala and in some of the Pentecostal churches that are in Kampala city. Research findings showed that a good number of pastors do not always refer to the scriptures. They refer to scriptures rarely or occasionally. That the nature of preaching is motivational, not necessarily on the kingdom of God because they have to make sure that the Christians are empowered economically. There are effects both positive and negative by these churches that; the churches have kept the youths involved in church and at least they are not involved in illegal activities as it would have been. On the other hand, The Pentecostal churches do not have a system of teaching and mentoring pastors so as to control hem just like the Anglican and Catholic Churches do. The Pentecostal type of preaching has made the youth to think that those praying in the Anglican or Catholic Church are not born again. It was recommended that Traditional churches should create projects which will empower the youths so that they do not move to other churches because they may get a job there. That traditional churches should be involved fully in community empowerment. This would help the youths to be stable other than looking for miracles from other churches. That the Church should also respond to current needs of having a vibrant church that rhymes with scripture. They should blend so that the youth can feel embraced. That the interreligious council of Uganda should see that the Pentecostal churches at least have a theme running throughout the year so that it minimizes on preaching whatever everyone wants to deliver. And that the interreligious council should make sure that it is a must for pastors to go to a recognized institution for theological training so that they are equipped.
Digitization of the Church and its Effects on the Clergy: a Case of St. Luke's Church Ntinda, Kampala Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-25) Simon Katuba
The study topic was digitization of the church and its effects on the clergy: a case of St. Luke’s church Ntinda, Kampala diocese. Three research objectives guided the study and these were:(i) To establish how digitization enables the clergy to spread the gospel in the church of Uganda. (ii)To assess the barriers to the digitization of ministry in the church of Uganda (iii) To examine the coping mechanism used by the clergy in the digitization of ministry in the church of Uganda. A qualitative research design was employed taking a purposively selected sample of 43 participants. The study found that digitization enabled the spread of the gospel despite existing barriers such as technological glitches and financial constraints. The barriers were solved by coping mechanisms which included learning information technology skills, availing recorded preaching to the Christians on the CD.
An Assessment of Effects of Financial Management Practices on Christian Giving in Binyiny Archdeaconry Diocese of Sebei
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-10-03) Bosco C Ali Musani
This study assessed the effects of financial management practices on Christian giving in Binyiny Archdeaconry Diocese of Sebei Church of Uganda. This particular study aimed at examining the financial management practices, their effects on Christian giving and what the church has done to correct the management challenges that exist. The researcher used a sampling method and self-administered questionnaires to a sample of 47(forty-seven) respondents of which only 38 (thirty-eight) responded representing 85.85% of the total population who included one archdeacon four parish priests, twelve lay readers, five treasurers, five heads of laity. Five Fathers union chairpersons, five mothers’ union chairpersons and five youth chairpersons. The research also made a theological reflection on the topic financial management practices and it’s finding showed poor financial practices in Binyiny Archdeaconry Diocese of Sebei COU with an average compliance to financial management was just 20.18%. This findings concluded that there are poor financial management practices and the church was responding but poorly which has could be attributed to the low levels of giving in Binyiny Archdeaconry Diocese of Sebei Church of Uganda. The research made observation and recommended that the church ensures proper financial management practices in place and also explore other causes of the low levels of giving like teachings on giving.
The Effectiveness of Rewards to the Work Performance of the Clergy in Bukwo Archdeaconry, Diocese of Sebei
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-10-03) Philip Komu Mangusho
The study assessed the effectiveness of rewards of the clergy to the work performance in Bukwo Archdeaconry Diocese of Sebei. The research particularly examined how the rewards can lead to better performance of the clergy. The researcher used sampling methods and self-administered questionnaires to a sample of 38 respondents whom all responded. The findings revealed that 21%of the respondents accepted that rewards are given and clergy their clergy perform well while 79% showed that they do not reward their clergy and so performance so poor. In conclusion the researcher observed that rewards contribute to work performance.
A Critique of Bishop Yustus Ruhindi's Eucharistic Theology in Light of the Anglican Communion's Eucharistic Theology
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-10-04) Edward Asiimwe
A critique of Ruhindi's Eucharistic theology which admits Christians to the Holy Table without concern for their outward conformance to Christian norms has brought conflict within the Province of the Church of Uganda that teaches the theology of Eucharistic Exclusivism. The purpose of the study was to analyze Ruhindi's Eucharistic theology and suggest ways in which the Eucharistic theology in the Church of Uganda can be improved so as to be accepted by all dioceses. It is paramount to preserve and keep the Holy Sacrament sacred but it is also equally important to understand the context as Africans, Church of the Province of Uganda and even to the level of a Diocese. From the reviewed literature, it was evident that the church leaders should be charged to serve under obligation to fulfill the command of Jesus, "who hates sin but loves sinners," to hold up the weak, heal the sick, to bind up the broken, to bring again the outcasts and to seek the lost. There is much need for every church to be engaged in continuous self-examination, scrutinize its traditions in the light of the Holy Scriptures and see where it is necessary to make changes, to restate and re-interpret its doctrine and to bring back the mind of Christ into the church. This is exactly what is needed in dealing with the pastoral problems in the Church of Uganda today. The study revealed that the church of Uganda should facilitate and support the Commission for Liturgy and more particularly on Sacraments and make it more active, put more attention in strengthening unity in diversity, have model and well informed church leadership who must be under the full submission of God. Christians need to understand that to take the Holy Eucharist unworthily means being selfish, disregarding the needs of others in the church, satisfying own cravings, and not having a sense of community or mutual fellowship. Members need to be taught how to examine themselves prior to Eucharist. This, therefore, calls upon Christians the need to confess sins to God and to take an inventory of their spiritual lives.
The Role of School Chaplaincy in the Spiritual Nurturing of Students in Church-Founded Secondary Schools in the Diocese of Lango: A Case Study of Dr. Obote College Boroboro
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-03-25) Dick Alengo
The study topic was ―The Role of School Chaplaincy in the Spiritual Nurturing of Students in Church-founded Secondary Schools in the Diocese of Lango: A Case Study of Dr. Obote College Boroboro‖. The study was guided by four research objectives which included: (i) To establish the level of student participation in the chaplaincy at Dr. Obote College Boroboro. (ii) To assess the effect of the chaplaincy on the spiritual nurturing of students at Dr. Obote College Boroboro. (iii) To examine the challenges faced by the chaplaincy in ministering to the students at Dr. Obote College Boroboro. (iv) To establish the coping mechanisms used by the chaplaincy in addressing the challenges of ministering to students at Dr. Obote College Boroboro. I used a case study design and a qualitative research approach, data was entered into nvivo version11, coded in line with the objectives. Thematic analysis was undertaken and the findings were presented verbatimely to make meaning of the study findings. The findings indicate that the chaplaincy was doing a good job of nurturing the spiritual life of students at Dr. Obote College Boroboro despite the challenges encountered which amongst others include the lack of a chapel building in the school premises, and the lack of enough resources to equip the chaplaincy. The study recommends fundraising resources to be committed to the construction of a chapel building within the school premises, and more efforts should be directed towards sensitizing parents to pay attention to the spiritual life of their children at Dr. Obote College Boroboro. From the research findings, the researcher concludes that student participation in the chaplaincy at Dr. Obote College Boroboro is high with most students 97% Christians being able to attend services on Sunday and also participate in the different fellowships in the school. The chaplaincy has a great impact on the spiritual nurturing of students at Dr. Obote College Boroboro with many testimonies shared by students of how chaplaincy positively impacts the lives of students. Chaplaincy has fostered good moral building among students which has enabled them to be obedient and embrace good discipline. However, the chaplaincy is faced with challenges such as lack of a chapel building to serve the purpose of prayer and worship, non-supportive parents to their children at school, and understaffed chaplaincy. The chaplaincy uses coping mechanisms such as counseling students to foster good moral development and encouraging parents to support their children at school. Teachers are encouraged to assist the chaplain in his work. Even when modern musical equipment is lacking, students utilize old music equipment to worship and praise.
Ephesians 4:14 in the Light of Giving for the Church Growth in Pentecostal Churches-Kampala Area
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-07-12) Dieudonne Niyongabo
The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between Ephesians 4:14 and the practice of giving for the growth of the church in Pentecostal churches in Uganda. The study was guided by the following objectives; examining the biblical principles of giving for the growth of the church, as outlined in Ephesians 4:14 and other relevant scriptures, exploring the factors that influence the giving patterns of Christians in Pentecostal churches in Uganda, assessing the impact of false teachings by pastors on giving for the growth of the church, and its implications for the spiritual health of Christians in Uganda and evaluating the dialogue between the giving in Ephesians 4:14 and the giving in Pentecostal churches in Uganda The study employed a case research design where qualitative research approach was used. The methods of data collection used during the study were interviews and focus group discussions. A sample of 50 believers/ worshippers/ Christians and 10 Church leaders of the five selected Churches was obtained using both simple random and purposive sampling methods. The study findings revealed that giving, rooted in biblical principles from passages such as Ephesians 4:14, is perceived as a deeply personal and spiritually enriching act of unity, sacrifice, stewardship, and love within the church community. Churches employ strategic approaches to nurture this culture of giving. However, complex factors, including doctrinal teachings, cultural norms, leadership dynamics, and theological traditions, influence giving patterns. False teachings on giving can have detrimental consequences on trust, financial well-being, and spiritual health. To counter this, church leaders must prioritize biblical teaching, transparency, and education to foster authentic, faith-driven giving. The comparative analysis underscores shared and distinct aspects of giving in Ephesians 4:14 and Pentecostal churches, with both contexts emphasizing the communal nature of giving and its significance in honoring God while accommodating variations in theological interpretations, worship practices, and leadership roles. Finally, the study recommends that Pentecostal Church leaders in Kampala prioritize comprehensive biblical teaching on giving, emphasizing unity, sacrifice, stewardship, and love. Transparency, accountability, and financial education should be maintained to build trust among members.
The Challenge of Clergy Welfare Among Anglican Priests in Reference to Kako Deanery West Buganda Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-07-19) Anthony John Katamba
The study investigated the Challenge of Clergy Welfare among Anglican priests in reference to Kako Deanery West Buganda Diocese. The study considered Kako Deanery as the geographical area of study basing on the easy accessibility and being a deanery with some challenges regarding clergy welfare. The objectives of the study were; to analyse the general clergy welfare, to investigate the causes of poor clergy welfare, to establish how the problem of poor clergy welfare can be reduced. The study investigated the gaps in the clergy welfare among Anglican priests. Specifically, the study focused on four aspects of welfare; salary, accommodation, transport and medical care. The study was conducted through a qualitative case study research design on the basis that it sought to define how and or why an experience (miserable clergy) took place. The study was based on a sample size of 38 ministers including clergy and lay readers from Kako deanery. The researcher conducted interviews with the respondents. Data was also collected using a structured well-designed questionnaire pretested before, which was self-administered to the respondents. Observation was done to collect data from some of the observable Deanery operations and structures. The findings revealed that, First, clergy welfare in Kako deanery is wanting. Secondly, the major cause of poor clergy welfare in the deanery is inadequate remuneration (low pay/stipend). Thirdly, all solutions aimed at improving clergy welfare in Kako deanery should focus on increasing the incomes of the parishes. The study concludes that the general clergy welfare in Kako deanery leaves a lot to be desired and therefore worth improving before it gets worse.
The Way of Love: An Exegesis of 1 Corinthians 13:4 -7 and Its Relevance to Church Ministry
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08) Sandra Musenero
This study explores the “way of love" and its relevance to Church Ministry portrayed in 1 Cor 13:4-7. This love is without limitation in its mode of practice towards all, it extends sweetness to all people, does not subscribe to envy, pride and self-importance but rather cares about the wellbeing of others, it fails to exasperate into pique partly because of patience and rejoices over truth. By so doing it is always looking out for the good in others just as Christ did on the cross. The objectives that guided the study delved into the historical, literal and exegetical analysis, of Paul’s letter while delving into their relevance to the Church. The study employed a qualitative research design in conjunction with a variety of biblical studies techniques which enabled evaluation of the importance of the historical and cultural settings that inspired the letter's composition. The historical critical approach was used to collect and analyse data so that the researcher could fully comprehend the text. The textual criticism approach enabled the researcher to contrast and modify the many sources of 1 Corinthians. The study establishes one major cardinal outcome; that love solves all things and differences and should be emulated as presented in 1 Cor 13:4-7 through extending patience, kindness, desist from envy, boasting, arrogance, rudeness, insistence in one’s own way, resenting others, rejoice with the truth and be able to bear all things, believe all things, hope all things and endure all things.
Examining the Impact of the African Traditional Practices on Death on the Anglican Church, South Rwenzori Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-20) Zerubaberi Bwambale
This study explored the influence of African traditional death practices on the Anglican Church in South Rwenzori Diocese, Uganda, focusing on why these customs persist despite widespread Christian conversion. The research aimed to evaluate the implications of these practices on the church's theological teachings and Gospel communication. The study contextualizes the rapid growth of Christianity in Africa, noting that this expansion has not always led to deep spiritual transformation. It argues that the unexamined blending of the Gospel with African traditions, particularly around death, creates syncretism, diluting the Christian message and altering core faith tenets. Using both quantitative and qualitative methods, data was collected from 90 Anglican respondents through pre-tested questionnaires and interviews. The findings indicated that many Anglicans in the region continue to observe traditional death-related practices such as widow inheritance, ritual head shaving, and beliefs in ancestral retribution. These practices persist due to deeply ingrained cultural beliefs and fears, even among Christians. The study revealed that these practices challenge the church's efforts to teach a biblical understanding of death and the afterlife, leading to theological confusion. The blending of traditional and Christian beliefs has also perpetuated practices like polygamy and ancestor veneration, which conflict with biblical teachings. To address these issues, the study recommended the Anglican Church implement more rigorous discipleship programs that promote a biblical worldview, contextualize the Gospel to confront traditional practices, and facilitate open discussions with congregants about the conflicts between these practices and Christian teachings. The study concluded that addressing the mixture of the Gospel and African traditional practices is essential for ensuring that Christianity's growth in the region is not just numerical but also transformative in the lives of believers. The findings provide a framework for the Anglican Church to better communicate the Gospel and challenge cultural practices that contradict the Christian faith.
A Study of the Effectiveness of the Church’s Current Measures to Curb Drug and Substance Abuse Among the Youths: A Case Study of Greater Mbarara Archdeaconry, Diocese of Ankole of the Church of Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-23) Erinest Mpagi
This was a study of the Effectiveness of the Church’s Current Measures to curb Drug and Substance Abuse among the Youths: A Case study of Greater Mbarara Archdeaconry, Ankole Diocese of the Church of Uganda. The current measures include: pastoral counseling, support groups, educational programs, workshops, and youth engagement activities. These initiatives, grounded in the Biblical teachings of love, wisdom, and guidance, provide emotional support, raise awareness, and offer healthy alternatives to drug and substance abuse. To further enhance the Church's response to substance and drug abuse, additional strategies are recommended: enhanced community collaboration based on unity (1 Corinthians 12:12-14), intensive rehabilitation programs following Jesus' healing ministry (Matthew 9:35), family and parental support emphasizing the foundational role of family (Ephesians 6:1-4), vocational training and employment opportunities guided by meaningful work (2 Thessalonians 3:10), and continued spiritual formation and discipleship rooted in strong spiritual disciplines (Romans 12:2). Incorporating these additional strategies, rooted in theological principles, can significantly enhance the Church's efforts to curb drug and substance abuse in the region.
Spiritual Luke-Warmness: An Exegetical Paper on Revelation 3:14–22
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-23) Robinah Kunihira
This study is an exegetical work on Revelation 3:14-, delving into how best it is applicable in the contemporary church. Due to growing cases of lukewarm character in the contemporary church, the study sought to apply Revelation 3:14-22 to the situation among Christians with an aim of drawing practical solutions to enhance godliness. It was guided by these research questions; What is the message of Revelation 3:14-22: What are drivers of spiritual Luke-warmness in the contemporary church; What lessons can we draw from Rev 3:14-22 to bring home godliness. The specific objective was to draw guiding Christian values from Revelation 3:14-22 by ascertaining the nature and drivers of Luke-warmness in the church, and finally apply the message of Revelations 3:14-22 to address spiritual Luke-warmness in the contemporary church. Commentary method was employed proceeding verse by verse, presenting exegetical observations as they relate to the text since this was library-based research. Additionally, the research used contextual analysis, to demonstrate the manifestation of spiritual Luke warmness in the church today. The Major study findings are: (1) The Lord Jesus is the originator of God’s creation: (2) Omniscience nature of the Lord Jesus Christ: (3) Sin as a barrier between God and humanity: (4) Complacency and misuse of God given resources: (5) Material possession is not necessarily a sign of God’s blessing: (6) There is wealth whose source is not Godly: (7) Jesus Christ fills the spiritual bankruptcy and covers nakedness: (8) Jesus’ relentless desire for every one’s freedom in eternity. The study concludes by noting that the church as an institution and individual Christians should: (1) Enhance obedience to God; (2) Fight the Lukewarm character; (3) Teach against prosperity gospel; (4) Openly condemn evil; (5) Provide good counsel / Institute Christian education; (6) Church Leaders should be exemplary; (7) exercise Love, forgiveness and reconciliation.
The Relevance of John Wesley’s Economic Principles for the Advancement of Mission in the Diocese of Northwest Ankole -Province of the Church of Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-26) Felex Bainomugisha
This study investigated how John Wesley’s economic ideas can be applied to the work of laying a strong foundation for sustainable holistic transformation in the Diocese of Northwest Ankole. The objectives of the study were; to evaluate the socio-economic context of mission in the Diocese of Northwest Ankole, to provide an understanding and application of John Wesley’s economic Philosophy in the Diocese of Northwest Ankole, and to recommend economic values that can be applied by adopting Wesley’s economic ideas with the Diocese of Northwest Ankole mission development plans. A qualitative study approach was adopted. The data collection was carried out using the documentary method. Findings revealed that the Diocese of Northwest Ankole, established in 2017 from the Greater Ankole Diocese, faces a range of socio-economic challenges including poverty, limited education and healthcare access, and economic instability, but it aims to address these issues through John Wesley's principles of ethical stewardship and community development to enhance both spiritual and material well-being. Findings also indicate that John Wesley’s economic philosophy, which emphasizes ethical wealth accumulation ("Gain all you can"), prudent resource management ("Save all you can"), and generous giving ("Give all you can"), offers a framework for addressing the socio-economic challenges in the Diocese of Northwest Ankole, promoting sustainable development and community support while navigating cultural and economic barriers. Findings also revealed that John Wesley's economic principles offer the Diocese of Northwest Ankole a comprehensive framework for enhancing mission development through ethical entrepreneurship, financial stewardship, generosity, economic justice, community-based initiatives, sustainable development, and education. In conclusion, The Diocese of Northwest Ankole's mission, shaped by significant socio-economic challenges, aims to address both spiritual and material needs through sustainable development and healthcare, while applying John Wesley's economic principles to foster ethical entrepreneurship, financial stewardship, and community well-being. The study recommends that the Diocese should invest in modern agricultural training and infrastructure improvements to boost local productivity and reduce poverty. The study also recommends that the Diocese should prioritize educational programs that teach ethical wealth accumulation and prudent resource management. In addition, the Diocese of Northwest Ankole should establish vocational training centers and financial literacy programs to empower individuals and promote ethical entrepreneurship.
The Origin, Nature, and Purpose of Scripture: An Exegetical Study of 2 Timothy 3:16–17
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-26) Jacques Bihozagara
This dissertation examines the authority and sufficiency of Scripture through a detailed exegetical study of 2 Timothy 3:16-17. The research seeks to answer critical questions regarding the source, nature, role, and purpose of Scripture within the context of Christian theology. By employing the commentary method, this study offers a verse-by-verse analysis, integrating both historical and literal contexts. Special attention is given to the Greek adjective “Πᾶσα,” which is pivotal in understanding the divine origin and authority of Scripture. Through a comprehensive examination of secondary sources and a library-based approach, this research synthesizes doctrinal insights with practical applications, demonstrating the timeless relevance of Scripture. The findings underscore the foundational role of Scripture in guiding the beliefs and practices of the Christian community, affirming its inspiration, inerrancy, and authority. The dissertation concludes with a summary of key issues identified in the exegetical study and explores their implications for contemporary Christian thought and practice.
A Correlation Between Divine Law and Secular Law: A Case of Kumi Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-27) Phillip Mugume
This dissertation explores the intricate relationship between divine law and secular law within the context of the Church of the Province of Uganda, with a specific focus on the Kumi Diocese succession dispute. Over the last decade, the Church of the Province of Uganda has faced a rising number of legal challenges, particularly in relation to the election and succession of bishops. This trend has raised concerns about the possible encroachment of secular legal principles into church governance, leading to significant divisions within various dioceses. The research traces the historical evolution of the Church of the Province of Uganda’s governance, beginning with the establishment of the first African Synod in 1914, through to the current structure of the Church with 39 diocesan bishops. The dissertation investigates the causes of recent lawsuits, examining whether these conflicts stem from changes in church laws, shifts in leadership practices, or misunderstandings between secular law and divine legal frameworks. The study adopts a constructivist research design, utilizing a literary analysis of books, journals, statutory laws, and Canonical laws. It also analyses key case laws, particularly the Kumi Diocese succession case, to understand the legal and theological implications of these disputes. The findings aim to clarify the relationship between secular law and divine law, propose best practices for their harmonious coexistence, and offer recommendations to church leaders for effectively managing legal conflicts. This research is intended to enhance the understanding of legal frameworks within the Church of the Province of Uganda and provide a foundation for further academic inquiry into the intersection of secular and divine law in church governance.
The Role of Women in the Gospel According to Luke: Implications to the Role of Women in the Church Ministry Activities Today
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-28) Allen Orishaba Rwamwehare
Saving and empowering women is a central theme in the Gospel according to Luke. Jesus’ interactions with women, such as Mary, Martha and Mary Magdalene among others demonstrate his radical inclusivity and challenge societal norms. Women play key roles in Luke’s narrative, including; Receiving and responding to Jesus’ message (1:26-38,10:38-42), Supporting Jesus’ ministry financially (Luke 8:1-3), Participating in Jesus’ teachings and learning from him (Luke 10:38-42), Being part of Jesus’ inner circle and witnesses to his ministry (Luke 23:49,24:10-11) 1 Examining how women are portrayed in the Gospel according to Luke, defining how women function in church ministry, and evaluating how the church ministry activities of today relate to the position of women in the Gospel according to Luke were the goals of the research project. The researcher collected data using secondary method of data collection. Secondary data method on the other hand involved documentary analysis gathered from documents available in different Libraries, church articles, church magazines, church newsletters, church minutes and Bible commentaries. A conclusion drawn from the research findings was that women's roles in church ministry activities today have implications, including equitable involvement in leadership and decision-making, acknowledging women's abilities and talents in ministry, encouragement of women’s theological education and training, inclusive language and representation in worship and liturgy, addressing gender-based violence and promoting gender justice, producing and publishing Christian literature. By embracing these implications, the church can; reflect Jesus’ inclusivity and empowerment of women, tap into the gifts and talents of women in ministry, promote gender equality and justice and enhance its witness to the gospel in the world today.

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