Master of Divinity (For graduates without theological background)

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

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 45

A Comparative Study of the Concept of Sin in the Theologies of Bishop Festo Kivengere and Bishop Yustus Ruhindi
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-31) Caleb Saturday
The comparative study on the concept of sin in theologies of Bishop Festo Kivengere and Bishop Yustus Ruhindi, two significant Ugandan church leaders whose theological positions have significantly influenced African Christianity. The two bishops shared a foundation in Anglican evangelical tradition but their theologies on sin are leaning towards and separating from one another theologically in emphasis, pastoral in practice, and culturally in outreach. Bishop Festo Kivengere, whom was once named ―Billy Graham of Africa," he preached a theology of sin as personal estrangement from God requiring repentance, forgiveness, and conversion in the grace of Jesus. His ministry during political strife in Uganda under Idi Amin’s regime captured a first priority to healing, reconciliation, and God's love dynamics for reconstructing again what has been broken by man. His evangelistic approach focused on the experiential nature of salvation, calling believers to a personal experience with Christ that leads to new life. A more ecclesiastical and doctrinal mindset regarding sin was, Bishop Yustus Ruhindi, focusing on its effect upon human beings and the Christian church. His theology was marked by a stern regard for moral uprightness, church order, and obedience to Scripture. Ruhindi’s emphasis on the corporate dimension of sin aligned with his pastoral leadership, advocating for holiness within the church and society. He argued that sin is not just a personal moral error but as a structural problem to be addressed by church doctrine and ethical life. This comparative study highlights their contextual and pastoral settings that informed their theological understandings of sin. It explores how their differing focuses Kivengere on personal transformation and Ruhindi on corporate holiness and this tuned their ministry work responses and reactions to the social, political, and religious concerns of the time. By analyzing their sermons, texts, and their contexts, this research joins the broader African Christian theology conversation and the inter-active way in which theological conceptions of sin inform Christian leadership, discipleship, and social renewal. The research suggests the usefulness of contextual theology in engaging sin in Church of Uganda and informs modern Christian ministry and theological education.
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.
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.
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.
A Study of the Impact of the Pentecostal Movement on Anglican Public Worship: A Case of the Diocese of Ankole of the Church of Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-14) Betty Namara
This study investigated the impact of the Pentecostal Movement on Anglican public worship in Ankole Diocese. It was based on the following objectives; to examine the factors for the increasing influence of Pentecostalism on Anglican Public Worship in Ankole Diocese of the Church of Uganda, to establish the effects of Pentecostalism on Anglican Public Worship in Ankole Diocese of the Church of Uganda and to explore the Church’s response to the increasing influence of Pentecostalism on Anglican Public Worship in Ankole Diocese of the Church of Uganda. The study utilized a quantitative research approach and data was collected from a sample of 45 respondents using a research questionnaire. The study findings indicated and concluded that the increasing influence of Pentecostalism on Anglican public worship in the Diocese of Ankole can be attributed to several factors, including the dynamic and spontaneous worship style of Pentecostal churches, the appeal of personal spiritual experiences, and the growing youth participation in these churches. Pentecostalism’s influence on Anglican public worship in the Diocese of Ankole has resulted in a noticeable shift in worship practices. This includes the increased use of contemporary music, spontaneous forms of prayer, and a greater emphasis on the role of the Holy Spirit in church life. The Church’s response to Pentecostalism’s increasing influence has been a mix of acceptance and caution. Some Anglicans have embraced elements such as contemporary worship and charismatic teachings, while others remain committed to preserving the traditional liturgy. The church has responded by organizing training programs for clergy, encouraging youth involvement, and introducing modern music instruments in worship to enhance participation and engagement. To address this growing influence, the Anglican Church should consider adapting certain aspects of its worship to be more engaging without compromising its liturgical heritage, establish a dialogue within the diocesan leadership to carefully evaluate how Pentecostal practices can be integrated into Anglican worship in a balanced manner, and finally the Church of Uganda should continue to encourage clergy and church leaders to engage in ongoing education and training on contemporary worship practices.
An Analysis of Augustine’s Doctrine of Grace and Its Relevance to the Anglican Church in Tanzania
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-20) Baraka Haramba
This dissertation explores the theology of grace of Augustine of Hippo and its theological and pastoral implications to the Anglican Church of Tanzania (ACT) specifically with reference to the Victoria Nyanza Diocese. The theology of grace of Augustine with its strong emphasis on human dependence on God’s initiative in salvation has had a profound impact on Western christianity, including Anglican confessional formulations. The dissertation looks at the reception, interpretation, and practice of the doctrine in the Tanzanian Anglican context, within theological education, liturgical life, pastoral ministry, and engagement with contemporary issues. Through qualitative, library-based research methodology, the study applies historical, doctrinal, comparative, and contextual theological methods. The principal theological sources are Augustine's Confessions and The City of God, Anglican doctrinal sources such as the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion, and Richard Hooker’s Of the Laws of Ecclesiastical Polity. The study also engages the African theological materials, in the writings of John Mbiti and Kwame Bediako, to examine the reaction of African spirituality and communal ethics towards Augustinian grace. Research from church archives includes church synod minutes, packages for theological training, and liturgical texts that offer evidence on how Augustine’s theology of grace has been responded to in the past and in practice in ACT teachings. The dissertation places in center stage the prominence of grace within Tanzanian Anglican theology, that is to say, within salvation, sacramental life, and moral renewal. Differences emerge, however, between classical Anglican, charismatic, and African contextual conceptions of grace. Theological challenges like legalism, prosperity gospel, and syncretism are also addressed in the study, and proposals about how theological purity and contextual theological imagination might find balance are proffered. This dissertation enriches Anglican pastoral practice, African Christian theology, and education in Anglican theology and demonstrates how Augustinian grace is a life giving and shaping doctrine to Tanzanian Anglicans since it speaks to spirituality, social justice, and disciple-making.
An Analysis of the Theology of Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism in the Church of the Province of Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-03) Martin Ndawula
This research paper delves into the theology of Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism within the Church of the Province of Uganda (CoU). The study explores how this new wave of African Pentecostalism has influenced traditional Anglican practices, leading to significant theological and practical changes within the CoU. The study begins by examining the historical background and evolution of Pentecostalism globally, with a specific focus on its African context. It then narrows down to Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism, highlighting its unique characteristics, such as the prophetic ministry, the "Man of God" syndrome, and the attribution of personal and communal challenges to spiritual forces. The paper discusses the challenges posed by Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism to the Anglican Church, particularly in terms of doctrinal purity, worship style, and church governance. It also considers the responses of the CoU to these challenges, analyzing both the positive and negative impacts of adopting Neo-Prophetic practices. The study further investigates the theological implications of Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism, questioning its compatibility with traditional Anglican doctrine and the potential for syncretism with African Traditional Religions. To achieve its objectives, the research employs both theoretical and empirical methods, including literature review, interviews with clergy and laity, and observations of church services. The findings reveal a complex interaction between Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism and Anglicanism, where the former has both revitalized and disrupted the latter. The paper concludes by offering suggestions for a balanced theological response that maintains the core values of Anglicanism while engaging with the dynamic spirituality of Neo-Prophetic Pentecostalism.
An Assesment on the Benefits of Youth Inclusion in the Church Ministry: A Case Study of Lira Urban Archdeaconry, Lango Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-13) Jimmy Francis Odongo
The study investigated the benefits of youth inclusion in the church ministry within Lira Urban archdeaconry, Diocese of Lango. This study was conducted under the following objectives; Examining the Christians’ view towards involving youth in church ministry in Lira urban Archdeaconry. Establishing the impact of involvement of youth in church growth and management and establishing the reasons for low participation of youth in general church ministry in the Lira Urban Archdeaconry. The descriptive and evaluative research design were employed during this research to study 100 out of 150 projected respondents, the sampling was done through random sampling. Both structured and semi structured questions were used to help the researcher to get answers and relevant information from respondents. The results of the study indicate that the youth, spiritual and lay leaders believe that the involvement of youth in general church programming is of benefit for church development. The study also shows that majority of the youth satisfied that they are being included in the church ministry though they have some areas lacking their involvement. The study revealed several reasons for low participation of youth in the church ministry and among reasons were low self esteem, ignorance, peer pressure and money minded pastors who scare unemployed youth away from church. The study concluded that much as there is moderate inclusion of the youth in church ministry, there are still gaps that need to be filled for better inclusion. Lastly the study recommended that the youth department from the Diocese down to sub-parishes be strengthened and youth friendly programs well regulated and guided be put in place so that youth are recruited and retained in church through mentorship, guidance and counseling and discipleship as guarantor for ministry sustainability and continuity.
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.
An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Current Discipleship Strategies in West Buganda Diocese in Light of Mamo’s (2017) Model of Discipleship and Contextualization
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-10) Moses Muwulya
This study examines the effectiveness of the discipleship strategies currently used by the Church of Uganda in West Buganda Diocese, specifically in relation to newly born-again Christians. The research is based on Mamo's (2017) model of discipleship and contextualization, which emphasizes the importance of discipleship strategies being both biblically sound and contextually effective. The study was prompted by the growing nominalism and limited spiritual growth among Christians, leading to concerns about the effectiveness of current discipleship approaches amid rapidly changing social and religious cultures. The data was collected using a qualitative research methodology, which involved participant observation, interviews, and questionnaires. The study sample included clergy, lay readers, diocesan leaders, and born-again Christians from five parishes in Masaka Archdeaconry. The findings indicate that although discipleship strategies such as fellowship meetings, mentorship, Bible study, and prayer are in place, their implementation often lacks contextual relevance and intentionality. The research reveals that the hierarchical structure of the church, inadequate training of leaders in expository biblical teaching, and the prioritization of evangelism over discipleship undermine the effectiveness of these strategies. A key issue identified is the disconnection between the discipleship content and the socio-cultural realities of newly born-again Christians. Strategies such as devotional materials and mentorship are often not adapted to the local oral traditions and the communal nature of discipleship prevalent in Buganda culture. The study also found that many church leaders are not actively involved in discipleship due to a lack of personal spiritual maturity, further weakening the discipleship framework. To address these challenges, the research recommends a stronger focus on contextual biblical teaching and training, restructuring church leadership to facilitate discipleship, and establishing discipleship as a core cultural practice within the church. This study concludes that while discipleship is recognized as important, the current strategies fall short in fostering spiritual maturity among Christians in West Buganda Diocese. The research highlights the need for a more organized and contextually relevant approach to discipleship to ensure the spiritual growth of the newly born-again Christians and the church's resilience in the face of modern cultural challenges.
An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Retirement Health Policy in Soroti Diocese in the Province of the Church of Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-30) Simon Peter Omaido
This study aimed at comprehensively evaluating the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of the Retirement Health Policy in the Province of Church of Uganda, Soroti Diocese. The study was guided by the following objectives: analyzing the existing retirement health policies and benefits offered within Soroti Diocese, examining the effectiveness of the existing retirement health policies in meeting the healthcare needs of the retired clergy and lay personnel, identifying the specific barriers hindering the effectiveness of the retirement health policies and recommending evidence-based improvements for enhancing the effectiveness of the retirement health policy in Soroti Diocese. The study was conducted using a case study research design where qualitative research approach was used. Data was collected using documentary review checklists and interviews with the Retired Clergy in Soroti Diocese and the top management of Soroti Diocese totaling to 25 who were selected using purposive sampling method. Furthermore, data was analyzed qualitatively using thematic review. The study findings revealed significant gaps in the retirement health policy in Soroti Diocese, particularly in specialized and comprehensive care. Both retirees and top management highlighted the need for expanded benefits, clearer communication, and a more frequent and structured review process. Key challenges include inadequate coverage, bureaucratic delays, geographic limitations, policy complexity, and affordability issues. To address these, recommendations include broadening the policy, simplifying administrative processes, increasing financial support, and exploring partnerships with external healthcare providers to improve service quality and accessibility. In conclusion, the analysis of the retirement health policy in Soroti Diocese reveals critical gaps in coverage, particularly for specialized care and preventive services, and highlights the need for increased financial support, streamlined administrative processes, and better communication. Both retirees and management recognize these shortcomings and stress the importance of adopting best practices, including comprehensive insurance plans and partnerships with healthcare providers, to enhance the policy’s effectiveness and better meet retirees' diverse healthcare needs. Lastly, the study recommended the need for a comprehensive review and expansion of the retirement health policy to cover specialized treatments, streamline administrative processes, increase financial support and coverage limits, improve communication and support mechanisms, and explore partnerships with external healthcare providers to enhance service quality and accessibility for retirees.
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.
Assessment of the Factors Contributing to Low Lay-men Participation in Church Activities in Kanyantorogo Archdeaconry Kinkiizi Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-31) Levi Twinamasiko
Participation in church activities is crucial for fostering spiritual growth, community building, and the overall mission of the church. Churches, particularly in Africa, have historically been central to the social and spiritual fabric of communities and studies suggest that the church plays a crucial role in not only the spiritual guidance of individuals but also in shaping societal norms and values so many communities, the participation of laymen in church activities such as leadership roles, financial giving, community outreach, and spiritual mentor-ship is vital for the church’s functionality and its outreach efforts (Anderson et al., 2004). In many Christian communities, laymen, also contribute significantly to various aspects of church life, including leadership, evangelism, and community service. However, in some areas, there has been a decline of laymen participation which has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of church operations, the weakening of community bonds, and the overall spiritual life of the church (Gifford, 2004). Therefore the researcher will aim at assessing the factors contributing to low lay-men participation in church activities in Kanyantorogo archdeaconry Kinkiizi diocese.
Contextual Discipleship Models and Church Growth in North Mbale Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-22) Ronald Gudoi Makoba
The study sought to analyze the impact of contextualized discipleship model on church growth in North Mbale Diocese. The a study was guided by the following objectives: To establish the biblical features of a contextualized discipleship model, analyze the weaknesses a contextualized discipleship model and to assess the involvement of the church in handling challenges associated with contextualized discipleship model in North Mbale Diocese. The study adopted a more of a library based research and less of a descriptive survey research design employing qualitative approaches, targeting parish priests, lay readers, fellowship leaders and active Christians. This research used questionnaires, interview guides, and observation checklist to collect data from various respondents. To get quality data the researcher ensured that the instruments used were reliable. From the findings, the study established several biblical features in a contextualized discipleship Model in north Mbale Diocese. It identified many weaknesses in the discipleship model and assessed the ability of the church in handling the challenges associated with the discipleship model. The research outcome was that the Diocese of North Mbale should give training the first priority to empower workers for quality discipleship, Christians should be aware and conscience about negative cultural practices and considering discipleship and evangelism in context as areas that can widen the scope of the study.
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.
Ecclesiastical Polity in Church of Uganda: A Legacy of Bishop Thomas Edison Irigei
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-31) David Oruja Esagu
This study looked back at the polity of the Church of Uganda based on the episcopal legacy of Bishop Thomas Edison Irigei of Kumi Diocese. The pioneer bishop of the diocese between 2001 and 2019, Bishop Irigei had a huge role in establishing the church's administrative, spiritual, and developmental track in the Teso sub-region. Ecclesiastical polity, understood as the system of church governance and authority, was practically manifested in Irigei’s integration of pastoral oversight with socioeconomic empowerment. His tenure was marked by strategic institutional development, including the creation of the Teso Diocese Planning and Development Organization (TEDDO), which bridged the gap between spiritual leadership and community welfare. This study placed the works of Bishop Irigei within the broader Anglican Episcopalian tradition, and through this, examined how his leadership model interlocked with constitutional and theological institutions of the Church of Uganda. The study further examined pitfalls encountered in implementation, such as economic resources, internal conflict, and contested succession on retirement. These disruptions emphasized the vulnerability of ecclesiastical systems to disturbances when charisma is institutionally based. Through qualitative analysis of documented church events, pastoral reports, and community responses, this paper argued that Bishop Irigei’s legacy embodied a contextualized model of ecclesiastical polity rooted in Anglican tradition but adaptive to local realities. His response demonstrated the potential of episcopal power to cross liturgical bounds and influence integral growth. Last but not least, the research contributed to understanding of the intersection of leadership within the church, leadership transition, and sustainable spiritual and social change in the Church of Uganda.
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.
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.
Examining the Relevance of Cell Group Ministry in Church Growth: A Case of St. Peter's Cathedral – Tororo (Bukedi Diocese)
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-08-30) Patrick Nicholas Barasa
The research examined the relevance of cell-group Ministry and how this has affected church growth in St. Peter’s Cathedral Tororo (Bukedi diocese). Informed by this background, the study identified the factors causing the decline in cell group ministry in the church, established attempts by the church to address this decline and established the effects that Cell Group ministry has on the church. A qualitative evaluative research design was adopted for this research. This was helpful in objectively understanding the perceptions about cell group ministry. The study population included respondents selected among the clergy, cell group leaders, laity and cell group members. Throughout the research, in-depth interviews and examination of records were used to collect data. Respondents’ responses were processed and analysed through the careful coding of interview replies. The study identified several factors that are causing the decline in cell group ministry in the Church such as Christian failure to balance cell group and work; the limited appreciation of the cell group as the foundational and core unit that links the family to the Church; and cell group leaders that have no training and mentorship on the detail of the ministry. Even then, several attempts have been taken by the church to address the decline, such as, provision of leadership by the present clergy, creating clear feedback channels to the members and the deliberate awareness through regular announcements. Finally, is that, Cell group ministry even in its current state has had positive impact on both the church and the general community as witnessed in church unity, increase in numbers, conversion of non-believers and growth in the prayer life and bible reading culture of members. The study recommendations include areas that should be addressed by: Uganda Christian University as a minister training institution; St. Peter’s Cathedral as a beneficiary of Cell Group Ministry; and Bukedi diocese as a mother body.
Exploring the Factors Influencing the Migration of Christians from Anglican Church to Other Churches: A Case Study of Kabindi Archdeaconry, Diocese of Muhabura, Kisoro District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-25) Jeniffer Nyiramutuzo
This study examines determinants of Christians’ mobility from the Anglican Church to other denominations in Kabindi Archdeaconry, Diocese of Muhabura. This study was motivated by the trend of declining membership of the Anglican Church that has concerned church leaders and stakeholders. The study employed qualitative case study, collecting data through interviews, observation and document analysis. Results showed that key driving forces for migration included dissatisfaction with leadership in the church, lack of spiritual nourishment, difference in generations in worship styles, lack of youth involvement, and attraction of charismatic practices by Pentecostal and other churches. Socio-economic factors and culture also played a role in believers’ decisions. The study suggests rejuvenating pastoral care, improvement in leadership responsibility, embracing lively forms of worship, and more engagement of the laity especially youth and women in church affairs. These can help to improve the Anglican Church's relativity and sustaining its membership. The findings contribute to the overall literature in church growth, retention, and ecclesiastical renovation in contemporary Christian congregations.

Browse

Browsing Master of Divinity (For graduates without theological background) by Title