Bishop Tucker School of Theology and Divinity

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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 on Delegation in Exodus 18:13–27 and Among the Clergy of the Diocese of Kampala: Towards Contextualization
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-23) Lovincer Katana
This study investigated the concept of Delegation in Exodus 18:13-27 and among the Clergy of the Diocese of Kampala to contextualize the biblical teaching on Delegation found in Exodus 18:13-27. It consists of the exegetical analysis of Exodus 18:13-27; analysis of the practice of delegation among the Clergy of the Diocese of Kampala; and contextualization of the biblical teaching on the practice of delegation in Exodus 18:13-27 among the clergy of the Diocese of Kampala. The social scientific approach was employed for exegetical study; a phenomenological approach was used to collect and analyze the data on the practice of delegation among the clergy of the Diocese of Kampala while a critical contextualization approach was used in contextualization. The exegetical analysis of Exodus 18:13-27 revealed that: Delegation is the sharing of responsibility and authority with others, Delegation is carried out through a specific process, and that there are results when delegation is carried out as well as when it is not. The findings on the practice of Delegation among the clergy of the Diocese of Kampala indicated that generally, the delegation was simply sharing responsibility with others especially those serving under them, and not necessarily sharing of authority. There was also no clear process being followed to ensure that roles/responsibilities were delegated well and followed through with. The contextualization of Exodus 18:13-27 in the practice of delegation among the clergy of the Diocese of Kampala pointed out that: Delegation not only involves the sharing of responsibilities but also the sharing of authority so that one to whom responsibility has been delegated has the mandate to carry it out. Delegation involves a specific process that both the person delegating as well as the one to whom tasks are delegated go through to ensure that: the person(s) selected has/have the required qualities to carry out the work, that the selected person has understood the task at hand, that the reporting/feedback mechanism is clear and that the selected person(s) has/have a conducive environment within which they can operate.
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 Exploration of Financial Control Practices in the Selected Church of Uganda Dioceses of Central Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-21) Wasswa Asaph Senoga
This study explores financial control practices within the Church of Uganda dioceses of central Uganda, employing an Interpretivist paradigm approach and semi-structured interviews with diocesan secretaries and diocesan treasurers. It explores strategies employed to mitigate financial fraud, evaluates the effectiveness of these strategies, and identifies factors contributing to financial malpractice within the church context. The exploration of strategies to mitigate financial fraud revealed several control measures, including vigilant supervision, auditing, segregation of duties, ethical training, transparency, clear policies, promotion of honesty, structured authorization processes, and physical control measures. The evaluation of the effectiveness of these control strategies highlighted their positive impact on transparency, minimized financial risks, and responsible financial management. Challenges in implementation included resource limitations, stakeholder resistance, data privacy concerns, and the complexity of monitoring a large number of volunteers. Additionally, the study unveiled various factors contributing to financial misconduct, such as financial pressures, low remunerations, greed, family expectations, compensation issues, technological proficiency, and organizational culture. It also identified trusting church environments, deficient segregation of financial responsibilities, and limited financial resources as opportunities exploited by church personnel in perpetrating fraud. In conclusion, this research significantly contributes to our understanding of financial control practices within the Church of Uganda dioceses in central Uganda. It not only sheds light on both effective strategies and persistent challenges in mitigating fraud but also highlights the critical need for improved financial governance within the church community. Recommendations stemming from this study include the implementation of enhanced training programs for church personnel, particularly in the areas of ethics and financial management. Additionally, it suggests the allocation of more resources to support robust financial control measures and the establishment of independent oversight bodies to monitor financial practices within the church. These measures, if adopted, can help safeguard the financial integrity of religious organizations and promote responsible stewardship of resources. Furthermore, future research can explore similar themes in different denominations or religious traditions to build upon the foundation laid by this study.
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 bible, growing landless-ness, and environmental degradation in modern Uganda: An encounter.
(Uganda Christian University, 2002) Olwa, Alfred
In modern Uganda two situations, in which a theme from the bible is understood to have immediate practical consequences in the lives of many people, is landlessness and environmental degradation. In this dissertation the author examines the problem of landlessness and environmental degradation in modern Uganda. The author asserts that the problem of growing landlessness and environmental degradation is relevant to the Church in modern Uganda. The author recommends that the Church leadership in Uganda in dealing with the problem should focus on justice and righteousness.
The Biblical View of the Unborn Child Psalm 139: 13–18
(Uganda Christian University, 1992) Ebong, Johnson O.
Abortion is a new phenomenon among contemporary Africans which has become a common practice among the young and adults alike. In this research work the author examines the biblical view of the unborn child according to Psalm 139:13-18, the author stresses the fact that the systematic and intentional destruction of the unborn child with the aim to relieve its mother from pregnancy, was a rare practice among traditional African societies. The author affirms that the biblical view portrays God as the source of life and that at every stage of human life, God has a purpose hence the need to preserve, protect and defend human life at all stages. The author recommends the Church leadership to help the Christians to read the bible and seek guidance from the word of God on life issues such as abortion, to teach and preach constantly the value of human life, to speak and write strongly about the practice of abortion, to form pro-life associations with the help of doctors who value life, and to help parents to promote the value of life among their children and teach them to respect human life.
The Christian influence on the understanding of death among the Acholi
(Uganda Christian University, 2001) Ayela, Labeja .O. O.
Focus: For the Acholi people of Northern Uganda, traditionally death is a natural phenomenon which is inevitable and unquestionable. In this dissertation, the author assesses the Christian influence on the understanding of death among the Acholi. The author confirms that for the traditional Acholi human beings have no permanent existence in the physical or spiritual world and no future life in terms of resurrection. The author affirms that their traditional understanding of death contributes to fear, beliefs and practices in handling the sick, corpse, burial arrangement, funeral rites and inheritance of widows among the Acholi people. The author asserts that the advent of Christianity in Acholi in 1904 has greatly changed this understanding through the introduction of the concept of resurrection, and as a result superstition on the origin of death, the way of caring for the sick, and the dying, burial system, mourning, funeral rites, the inheritance of widows and life after death have a new meaning for the Acholi of contemporary era. The author recommends that in order to maintain the resurrection influence on the Acholi people, the Church must continue effective evangelization of the non-Christian Acholi and effectively nurture the Christian Acholi converts.
The Death of Jesus Christ As Sacrifice in the Epistles of Paul and the Epistle to the Hebrews: A Comparative Study
(Uganda Christian University, 1997) Muhindo, Kalengyo
The concept and practice of sacrifice exist in the Old Testament setting and in some pagan communities of the Graeco-Roman world. In this dissertation, the author presents a comparative study of the death of Jesus Christ as a sacrifice as recorded in the epistles of St. Paul and the epistle of Hebrews. Putting more emphasis on the sacrifices for sin, the author explores the various backgrounds to the thought of sacrifice in Paul and the Hebrews. The author analyses the similarities and differences of the concept of sacrifice in Paul and the writer to the Hebrews. The author observes that both writers using cultic categories have transformed the understanding of atonement from the cultic to the personal level.
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.
Ecclesiology among the Lugbara of Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2001) Erema, Samuel O. F.
Focus: When the Missionaries introduced Christianity among the Lugbara, they introduced western model of ecclesiology which is not appropriate to the Lugabra Christian spirituality. In this dissertation the author high lights ecclesiology among the Lugbara of North-western Uganda. The author decries the fact that African Christians inherited missionary models with the denominational divisions and individualistic way of life which properly belonged to the western Church-and as a result the African communal way of life was devalued and African Christians completely broke from their traditional societies. The author asserts that the missionary model has not fitted the African Christians and has failed to penetrate deeply to the heart of the African. The author recommends that the Church leadership in Africa should establish the African clan model ecclesiology which is most appropriate for the Lugbara Christian and African Christian in general.
Effect of Civil Conflicts on the Development of the Church: A case of the Episcopal Diocese of Yei, (Anglican Communion)
(Uganda Christian University, 2023-09-25) Emmanuel Charles Lokosang
The stand of this thesis is to examine the effect of civil conflicts on the development of the church: A case of the Episcopal Diocese of Yei. The study was directed by three main objectives: 1- it investigates the causes of civil conflicts in South Sudan, 2 - it assessed how civil conflicts affect the development of the church, 3- it examined strategies devised by the Church to maintain its development amidst civil Conflicts in South Sudan. And then it explores theological reflection on the matter. The Church in South Sudan (SS) lives amidst civil conflicts and wars for several decades which affected its life and development. South Sudan is a multiethnic and multi-religious country experienced civil conflicts and wars. Therefore, this thesis helps the church and the community to prevent the emergence of civil conflicts after identifying the causes of the conflicts in the society and how it affects the development of the church and the community for the church to maintain its development awake amidst conflicting civil societies. It makes clear a theological concept of origin of conflicts, the effect of the conflicts on the civil population including the church, and how the church remains progressive. However, this study realized a gap that need further study. The effect of political influence on the social development of the Church as the body of Christ. Effect of ethnic influence on the spiritual growth of the Church as the body of Christ. The gap has its root on the conflict of interest. Which has impact on the Social, economic, and spiritual being of the Church. Most of researches focus on the conflicts within the church and how it affects her development and growth, the role of the Church in conflict resolution and peace building. But few research is done on how the external factors influence the affairs of the Church and affects her state of development and growth, emerge problems to the Church . in this regard, the study established it foundation from this phenomenon based on the theories of conflict emergence and its effects on the society.
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.

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