Master of Divinity (For graduates without theological background)

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

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A STUDY OF THE HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE JONAM ARCHDEACONRY, NEBBI DIOCESE OF THE PROVINCE OF CHURCH OF UGANDA AND ITS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE JONAM COMMUNITY
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-12) OWINJI INNOCENT
The study investigated the historical development of Jonam Archdeaconry and its contributions to the Jonam Community. The Archdeaconry lies along the River Nile that has a number of economic activities, chiefly fishing, that has both positive and negative impacts on the social well-being of the community. The positive ones include: improved income, access to fish as food and others. The negative ones include: early dropout of children from schools for the fishing activity from which they begin to earn money at early ages, and early pregnancies/marriages among the children. The objectives of the study were: to trace and document the sequential and key indicators of development of Jonam Archdeaconry, evaluate the Archdeaconry’s socio-economic contributions to the people within Jonam community and establish the challenges encountered by Jonam Archdeaconry as they make their socio-economic contributions to the community. The study collected both qualitative and quantitative data using questionnaires and interviews that were administered to the respondents. Findings showed that the Archdeaconry made good achievements and contributions in the socio-economic and cultural development and transformation of the community in it in terms of education, health and reforms in cultural practices. However, the community members in the Archdeaconry are still grappling with the challenge of poverty and poor nutrition due to the low income of the people. It was recommended that church leaders and the Christians in the Archdeaconry be provided with knowledge and skills on income generation activities and nutrition for economic empowerment of the community.
THE INFLUENCE OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LAITY AND CLERGY ON THE GROWTH OF A CHURCH: A CASE OF ST. STEPHEN PARISH
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-09) TWEBAZE ELLY
This study examined the influence of the relationship between the laity and clergy on the growth of a Church, with a specific study on St. Stephen’s Kitara Church of Uganda. It was guided by the specific objectives: (i) to assess the state of the working relationship between the clergy and laity in St. Stephen’s Kitara Church of Uganda, (ii) to analyses the effects of positive relations between laity and clergy on the growth of the church in St Stephen’s Kitara church of Uganda and (iii) to examine the effects of negative relations between the laity and clergy on the growth of the church in St Stephen’s Kitara church of Uganda. This study was a qualitative research that utilized a case study research design, thus collecting qualitative data from a sample 30 respondents using both the interview and focus group discussion methods. The findings reveal that the biblical allusions underscore the vital principles that can guide clergy and laity in overcoming negative relations and fostering a healthy church environment. By embracing unity, effective communication, servant leadership, conflict resolution, and mutual encouragement, the church can enhance its growth and vitality. Also, the findings of the study underscore the critical role that positive clergy-laity relationships play in the overall health and growth of the church. Biblical principles affirm the importance of unity, effective communication, and servant leadership, which are vital for cultivating a supportive and engaged church community. The findings also reveal that as negative relations persist, churches risk experiencing a downward spiral of membership and attendance. The longer these tensions go unaddressed, the more challenging it becomes to restore trust and collaboration between clergy and laity. Based on the findings, it was recommended that Churches should prioritize creating avenues for open dialogue between clergy and laity. Regular forums, workshops, and feedback sessions can facilitate discussions about concerns, suggestions, and ideas. Also, providing training in conflict resolution for both clergy and laity can equip members with the skills necessary to address disagreements constructively.
THE RELEVANCE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON CHURCH LEADERS' STEWARDSHIP IN KIRYANDONGO ARCHDEACONARY, MASINDI-KITARA DIOCESE
(UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSTY, 2025-09-08) CISSY NABUKENYA
ABSTRACT The study aimed at examining the relevance of financial management practices on church leaders’ stewardship in Kiryandongo Archdeaconry, Masindi-Kitara Diocese. The study was guided by objectives which are; assessing the current financial management practices relevant to enhancing church leaders’ stewardship, identifying the challenges faced in implementing financial management practices and their impact on church leaders’ stewardship, and exploring strategies the church can adopt to strengthen financial management practices and improve church leaders' stewardship in Kiryandongo Archdeaconry. The study was carried out using a cross sectional research design where both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were used. The data was collected using questionnaires and interviews and during the data collection, where both simple random and purposive sampling methods were used. A sample size of 50 respondents who include; Clergy and laity working with Kiryandongo Archdeaconry, Masindi-Kitara Diocese and the top management of the Diocese was used in the study. The study findings revealed that while Kiryandongo Archdeaconry has established key financial management practices such as written policies, regular reporting, and training, low financial literacy, inadequate accountability, and sporadic auditing weaken effective stewardship. Impose stewardship through regular training, policy adherence, use of technology, and participatory financial oversight mechanisms to improve transparency, trust, and leadership effectiveness. Lastly, the study called for ongoing financial education for church officials, the execution of well-defined financial policies, promotion of collective decision-making, frequent audits and in-house controls, and utilization of electronic financial systems to enhance accountability, transparency, efficiency, and general stewardship of church finances.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NEW COVENANT IN THE LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN: AN EXEGETICAL ANALYSIS OF HEBREWS 8:6-13
(UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2025-09-02) BAKKABULINDI PATRICK
This study presents an exegetical engagement with Hebrews 8:6–13, aiming to explore its relevance and application within the context of the contemporary church. In response to the rising phenomenon of nominal Christianity, particularly cultural Christians, the research sought to demonstrate how the New Covenant message in Hebrews can offer transformative guidance and practical solutions for cultivating genuine godliness. The study was guided by two questions: What is the message of Hebrews 8:6–13? and How does this passage offer a framework for fostering spiritual transformation in today’s church? The core objective was to ascertain the enduring relevance of Hebrews 8:6–13 in confronting the spiritual superficiality found in cultural Christianity, and to apply its covenantal themes toward nurturing authentic discipleship in Uganda. Methodologically, this library-based study employed a commentary-based exegetical approach, offering verse-by-verse analysis grounded in both historical and literary context. The Major study findings are: 1) God’s Promise of New Covenant is Fulfiled in Christ; 2) The Role of Christ as the Mediator of the new covenant; 3) A Call to embrace a “better” covenant; 4) The Divine Commitment is Fulfilled in Christ’s New Covenant; 5) Transformation is Through the Power of the Holy Spirit; 6) Personal Knowledge of God is for All Believers; 7) God’s Mercy Remembers Sin No More; 8) the need to Live in the Reality of the New Covenant. The study concluded by noting that the church should: (1) encourage Liturgical transformation; (2) Reimagine Faith Formation in the Ugandan Churches; (3) Redeem Faith from the Prosperity Gospel Trap; (4) have church Leadership Rooted in Presence and Communion of God; (5) Proclaim Christ Amid Confusion through Biblical Preaching; (6) encourage members to walk Together in Grace through Contextualized Discipleship.
MISSIONAL ECCLESIOLOGY OF BUKEDI DIOCESE
(UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2025-09-01) OWORI MOSES OGEYO
This dissertation investigates the missional ecclesiology of Bukedi Diocese, an Anglican diocese in Eastern Uganda, in light of the global and biblical understanding of the Missio Dei (God‟s mission to redeem and restore creation). Rooted in Anglican tradition and scriptural theology, the study aims to examine how the Diocese of Bukedi perceives, articulates and practices its missional calling in a rapidly changing cultural and socio-economic context. The research is guided by four main objectives: to explore the theological understanding of mission among clergy and laity; to assess the implementation of the Five Marks of Mission; to evaluate the role of both clergy and laity in advancing the Church‟s mission; and to identify the contextual challenges and opportunities that shape missional engagement in the Diocese. Using a qualitative, library-based theological research methodology, the study draws from biblical texts, ecclesiological writings, Anglican Communion resources and contextual African theology. It employs critical theological reflection to interpret findings in relation to Scripture, tradition, and the lived realities of the Diocese. The study particularly reflects on biblical passages such as John 20:21, Luke 4:18–19 and Ephesians 4:11–13, while engaging with theological thinkers including David Bosch, Christopher Wright, Stephen Bevans and Lesslie Newbigin. The findings reveal that the Diocese of Bukedi retains a strong commitment to evangelism and community presence, but tends to adopt a reductionist and clerical approach to mission, with limited focus on social justice, ecological care or prophetic witness. Lay participation in mission is minimal and often informal, despite the Anglican emphasis on the priesthood of all believers. Furthermore, while the Five Marks of Mission are affirmed at the provincial level, their local integration into parish life remains uneven. Contextual challenges such as poverty, syncretism, illiteracy and environmental degradation are real, yet they also present unique missional opportunities especially in youth engagement, public theology and community transformation. Theologically, the study calls for a renewed missional identity for the Diocese of Bukedi; one that is collaborative, contextually responsive and grounded in the holistic mission of God. It recommends practical steps for theological education, lay empowerment, environmental discipleship and deeper ecclesial reflection. Ultimately, this dissertation contributes to the ongoing theological discourse in African Anglicanism by offering a vision of the Church as a sent community, embodying the Gospel in word and deed for the transformation of society and the glory of God.
ROMANS 1.18-32 AND HOMOSEXUALITY DISCOURSE IN UGANDA AND BEYOND
(Uganda Christrian University, 2025-08-27) SILVANUS BOB TURYAMWIJUKA
The study aims to explore Romans 1.18 32 and the discourse on homosexuality in Uganda and beyond. The study was guided by objectives which are: to give the historical background of Romans, to conduct a literally analysis of Romans, a detailed exegesis of Romans 1:18-32, and to consider the usefulness of the historical reading of Romans 1:18-32 in various current issues of homosexuality. This study employed the historical and literary context method of interpretation to Romans 1:18-32, an admission that Scripture is to be understood by examining its initial context, audience, culture, situation, argument flow, and genre. Historical context establishes the author, audience, and traditions, while literary context examines form and structure to discover meaning. As Duvall & Hays (2012) and Fee & Stuart (2003) note, proper interpretation is God's intended sense by the text. It is this sense that uncovers the ongoing relevance of Romans 1:18-32 to Uganda today. The study revealed that the Anglican Church of Uganda can address homosexuality, as found in Romans 1:18-32, by grounding its stance firmly in biblical teaching, intensifying pastoral counselling and discipleship, and promoting marriage and family education as the model for sexual ethics. The Church must use Scripture responsibly in the public square, invest in youth ministry for moral formation, and build community support systems that uphold accountability and godly living. Training clergy and lay leaders in a proper theology of sexuality, advancing cultural renewal through moral education, and offering compassionate pastoral care for individuals who struggle with same-sex attraction are required. In conclusion, collaboration with regional and global Anglican bodies such as GAFCON ensures theological integrity, pastoral sensitivity, and a unified response to contemporary sexual ethics in the Ugandan situation, which is unique.
Effects of substance abuse among the youth in Rujumbura Archdeaconry, North Kigezi Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-08-18) Asiimwe Joshua
This study examines the effects of substance abuse among the youth in Rujumbura Archdeaconry within North Kigezi Diocese, analyzing the contributing factors, and implications for church ministry. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach combining questionnaires and interviews with youth, church leaders, and community stakeholders. The research reveals the underlying factors to youth substance abuse, examining existing church strategies for addressing substance abuse and to suggest the strategies that the church can use to restore the youth experiencing substance abuse in Rujumbura Archdeaconry. The findings demonstrate both challenges and opportunities for faith-based interventions, highlighting gaps between current church approaches and youth needs. This research contributes to the broader understanding of how religious institutions can respond to contemporary youth challenges while maintaining theological integrity, ultimately suggesting practical strategies for the church to become a more effective agent of transformation in addressing youth substance abuse within this specific context.
The Contribution of Bishop Lucian Charles Usher Wilson to the Growth of the Diocese of Mbale
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-08-26) IVAN WAMUTU
According to the Diocese of Mbale archival records, its stated that the Diocese of Mbale is located in Bugisu Sub-region found in the Eastern part of Uganda about 230kms from the capital Kampala. This Diocese was created in 1961 by the division of upper Nile Diocese with Bishop Lucian Charles Usher Wilson as its first Bishop. It is located in a very diverse region of culture and religion landscape which includes the Roman Catholics, Anglicans and many other African instituted or independent Churches which are growing at a very high pace. Important to note is that the Islam is also growing within this same geographical location of this diocese as seen by the establishment of many Muslim institutions like schools and hospitals for example Nkoma Secondary School, Nakaloke Islamic Secondary School, Hamdam Girls Secondary School, Islamic University in Uganda and Ahamedia Medical Center among many others which has impacted the lives of the people living in this area. With all the prevailing denominational storms, the Diocese of Mbale is playing an instrumental role in keeping its religious identity.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF DISCIPLESHIP IN ENHANCING RETENTION OF NEW BELIEVERS, CASE OF THE DIOCESE OF SOROTI
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-08-21) Thomas Ewadu
This research was undertaken to assess the Significance of Discipleship in enhancing retention of new believers in Obulai Parish, Serere Archdeaconry in the Diocese of Soroti. The purpose of the research was to undertake a study on the significance of Discipleship in enhancing retention of new believers in church so that the missions and evangelism departments can plan better for post-evangelism activities in the Diocese of Soroti. The purpose was achieved through objectives that included; To ascertain whether discipleship is conducted for new believers in Obulai parish, Serere Archdeaconry, Church of Uganda, Diocese of Soroti, To identify the approaches used in discipleship of new believers in Obulai parish, Serere Archdeaconry, Church of Uganda, Diocese of Soroti, To establish the significance of discipleship in the retention of new believers in Obulai parish, Serere Archdeaconry, Church of Uganda, Diocese of Soroti. The objectives were assessed using the following questions; Does your church conduct discipleship sessions for its new Christian believers? What are the approaches used in discipleship of new believers in your church? What is the significance of discipleship in the retention of new Christian believers in your church? The researcher reviewed literature related to the topic of significance of discipleship on retention of new believers in Bishop Dunstan Bukenya Library and also consulted online articles and journals as well as other electronic resources. The sources cited were properly acknowledged. This research, conducted in Obulai parish, Serere Archdeaconry, Diocese of Soroti, church of the province of Uganda was qualitative in nature and the researcher used interview guides and questionnaires to collect data from the field. The findings were analyzed and presented in form of pie-charts for easy interpretation. Theological reflection was done based on the extracts from the Bible, it was Christocentric in nature. The researcher ensured quality control by administering Validity and Reliability tests of the data collection instruments to ensure that the data collected gave a true and representative position of discipleship in Obulai parish, Serere Archdeaconry, Diocese of Soroti. Discipleship was taken as an independent variable and retention of new believers as a dependent variable in the study Following the deductions made, the researcher was able to arrive at the conclusion and make recommendations. It was revealed that, discipleship is closely linked to missions and evangelism and different actors need to play a role. The Lay Readers, School chaplains, as well as the Parish priests in their different capacities. Discipleship activities need to be coordinated centrally to promote uniformity and consistency. The church has to be intentional in the manner in which discipleship of new believers is conducted. Not only should it be left to Lay Readers, Parish priests have a crucial part to play in it. The aspect of time allocation is paramount in discipleship of new believers and that enough time needs to be allocated for each category. As pertains the significance of discipleship in retention of new believers, the study revealed that, Discipleship is highly significant in the retention of new believers in church. Hence, the church needs to embrace the practice of Discipleship of new believers so as to retain them in church after they have confessed to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Having undertaken the study on the significance of discipleship in enhancing retention of new believers, case of the Diocese of Soroti, the researcher made the following recommendations; The church needs to make it mandatory for discipleship sessions to be arranged for new believers and sufficient time be allocated for it as well as different facilitators for effective ministry. Church activities need to be coordinated at different administrative levels to promote cohesion, it can be at sub-parish, parish, Archdeaconry or at Diocesan level. The different departmental heads need to be adequately equipped through training for effective ministry. In line with further research, the researcher recommended the following areas for further study; A study on the different Discipleship models that can enhance retention of new believers in church. A study on the relationship between discipleship and Evangelism A study on the role of Discipleship of Secondary School students in their preparation for future ministry A study on the significance of stakeholder involvement in sustaining Evangelism
THE AMELIORATION OF TECHNOLOGY IN EVANGELISM IN NORTH ANKOLE DIOCESE, PROVINCE OF THE CHURCH OF UGANDA
(UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2025-07-08) MUHANGUZI ELIAH
This study assessed the amelioration of technology in evangelism in Diocese of North Ankole. It was guided by the objectives: to assess the current use of technology in evangelistic activities within the Diocese of North Ankole; to evaluate the impact of technology on the effectiveness and reach of evangelistic activities in Diocese of North Ankole and; to explore strategies for enhancing the use of technology in evangelism in Diocese of North Ankole. The study utilized a both quantitative and qualitative research approach and data was collected from a sample of 169 respondents using both the questionnaire and interview methods. It was found that current technology use in evangelistic activities within the North Ankole Diocese includes significant adoption of digital platforms, with social media and audio-visual equipment emerging as the predominant technological tools for gospel dissemination. The study demonstrates that the diocese has embraced contemporary communication technologies while maintaining a balanced approach that accommodates both traditional and modern evangelistic methods. Training programs for clergy and church leaders (84.0%) and improved internet access (81.1%) emerged as priority areas requiring immediate attention. The researcher recommended that North Ankole Diocese should establish a dedicated training institute focused on developing technological competencies among clergy and Lay Readers. The study also recommended that the diocese should actively pursue partnerships with telecommunications companies, technology organizations, and development agencies to address infrastructure challenges and resource constraints.
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.
FACTORS INFLUENCING CHILDREN’S ATTENDANCE OF SUNDAY SCHOOL IN KINONI PARISH, NORTH ANKOLE DIOCESE
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-08-12) Gloria Nduhukire
This mixed-methods study examines factors affecting children's Sunday school attendance in Kinoni Parish, North Ankole Diocese. Using pastoral theological frameworks that integrate theological truth with human realities, researcher investigated ten variables influencing religious education participation among children aged 8-14 years. The study employed quantitative surveys (n=285) and qualitative interviews across three Church of Uganda congregations: Kinoni COU, Sherengye COU, and All Saints COU. Data collection included structured questionnaires with 5-point Likert scales, interviews with church leaders, parents, teachers, and children, direct observation of Sunday school sessions, and analysis of attendance records from 2019- 2024. Major positive finding: Strong parental spiritual commitment emerged as a key strength. Parents demonstrated exceptionally high belief in Sunday school's importance for children's spiritual growth (M = 4.22, SD = 0.96) and consistently encouraged regular attendance (M = 4.01, SD = 1.09). This reflects deeply embedded spiritual values within the parish community, providing a strong foundation for ministry interventions and exemplifying biblical intergenerational faith transmission principles from Deuteronomy 6:6-7. Major negative finding: Health-related barriers constituted the most significant systematic obstacle to consistent attendance. Community health concerns received the highest impact rating (M = 4.27, SD = 0.89), with illness-related absences (M = 4.17), long-term health conditions (M = 4.17), and inadequate health accommodations (M = 4.07) creating persistent disruptions. This reveals a critical gap between the church's theological commitment to caring for the vulnerable and its practical capacity for inclusive, health-responsive programming. Key Recommendations: First, develop comprehensive church support systems addressing transportation (M = 1.83), learning materials (M = 2.47), and health accommodations through cooperatives and partnerships. Second, implement strategic leadership development initiatives addressing training deficiencies (M = 2.79) through theological institution partnerships. This research contributes empirical evidence for evidence-based ministry planning in post-colonial African contexts, offering practical guidance for church governance and broader scholarly discourse on pastoral theology and religious education effectiveness. Keywords: Sunday school attendance, pastoral theology, children's religious education, rural ministry, Church of Uganda, community health barriers, parental involvement and leadership development.
THE INFLUENCE OF TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE TO CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE: BALANCING BRIDE PRICE DEMANDS IN HOLY MATRIMONY IN HOIMA ARCHDEACONRY BUNYORO KITARA DIOCESE
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-08-11) BARNABAS MURUNGI
The study aims at navigating the influence of traditional marriage to Christian marriage: balancing bride price demands in holy matrimony in Hoima Archdeaconry, Bunyoro Kitara Diocese. The study was guided by objectives which are; examining the influence of traditional bride price demands on financial stability within Christian marriages, analyzing the societal and ethical implications of bride price demands on marital dynamics among Christian couples and exploring how the Church can intervene to promote a balanced integration of traditional marriage customs and Christian marriages within Hoima Archdeaconry. The study was carried out using a case study research design where qualitative research approach was also used. The data was collected using interview and focus group discussion guides and during the data collection, where both simple random and purposive sampling methods were used. A sample size of 46 respondents who include; married couples (40) from the different churches in the different parishes in Hoima Archdeaconry and key informants (06) was used in the study. The study findings revealed that exorbitant bride price demands in Hoima Archdeaconry negatively affect the financial stability, marital harmony, and ethical dynamics of Christian marriages, often leading to debt, delays in church weddings, and gender inequality. Such customs have turned from symbolic to commoditized, fostering power inequalities and societal pressure. The Church is called upon to act proactively through pre-marital counseling, community sensitization, and collaboration with cultural leaders to reform bride price customs, promote affordability, and uphold Christian values of love, unity, and dignity. Finally, the study recommended that the Hoima Archdeaconry Church conduct culturally rooted premarital counseling, community sensitization, and collaboration with cultural leaders to reverse the negative impact of runaway bride price. It further suggests collaborative marriage preparation committees and re-educating elders to re-ignite bride price to its symbolic role and uphold Christian principles of love, unity, and dignity in wedding ceremonies.
The Impact of Premarital Counseling Programs in Combating Domestic Violence in Marriages Within Bunyoro Kitara Diocese Bulindi Archdeaconry
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-08-06) Atuhuura Edward Gerald
This study will be conducted in Bulindi archdeaconry Bunyoro-Kitara Diocese which is a Church of Uganda diocese in the mid-western region of Uganda, covering the administrative districts of Hoima, Hoima city, Kikube, Kagadi, Kakumiro and Kibaale. Bulindi archdeaconry has 10 Parishes and a number of daughter churches. Due to the increasing rate of domestic violence it is necessary to find out how premarital counseling has gone ahead to fight the threat of domestic violence. Therefore in his study the researcher has explored the impact of pre-marital counseling in combating Domestic violence among the marriages in Bulindi archdeaconry Bunyoro Kitara diocese.
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.
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.
The Contribution of Reverend Yoweri Buningwire to the Growth of Christianity in Ankole Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-31) Brian Ninsiima
This study examines the contribution of Reverend Yoweri Buningwire to the growth of Christianity in Ankole Diocese, Uganda. Despite the significant role of indigenous clergy in the expansion of Christianity in Africa, scholarly attention has predominantly focused on foreign missionaries, leaving a gap in the documentation of local leaders like Reverend Buningwire. This research addresses this gap by analyzing his spiritual, educational, and socio-economic contributions, as well as the challenges he faced in advancing Christianity in Ankole. Using a qualitative research design, the study draws on historical documents, archival records, and interviews with retired clergy, current church leaders, and senior lay members of Ankole Diocese. The findings reveal that Reverend Buningwire played a pivotal role in expanding Christianity through strategic land acquisition, culturally contextualized evangelism, and the establishment of churches and schools. His ministry emphasized holistic transformation, integrating spiritual development with social reforms such as advocating against domestic violence and promoting girls' education. However, his work was met with significant challenges, including resistance from traditional religious practitioners, political opposition from local leaders, marginalization within colonial church structures, and logistical hardships in establishing churches in remote areas. Despite these obstacles, his leadership laid a lasting foundation for Christianity in Ankole, demonstrating the importance of indigenous agency in the growth of the faith. The study concludes that Reverend Buningwire’s contributions were instrumental in shaping Ankole Diocese, offering valuable lessons for contemporary church leadership in Africa. It recommends the preservation of his legacy through archival documentation, the adoption of his holistic ministry model, and further research on indigenous clergy’s roles in African Christianity. This research contributes to the broader discourse on African church history by highlighting the often-overlooked impact of local religious leaders in the continent’s Christianization.
Proverbs 22:6, a Model for Building a Strong Foundation of Faith in Children
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-30) Alex Kalangasa
This study explored Proverbs 22:6 as a biblical model for building a strong and enduring foundation of faith in children. Using a descriptive and analytical qualitative research design based on library-based resources, the research investigated three core objectives: the biblical and theological perspectives on nurturing children’s faith, the approaches employed by the church in fostering children’s spiritual development, and the formulation of a model for faith formation grounded in Proverbs 22:6. Data collection methods include biblical and theological text interpretation, a review of scholarly literature on Christian education and child discipleship, and an examination of church practices such as catechesis, Sunday school, and mentorship programs. The study found out that effective faith formation in children is multidimensional, involving structured doctrinal teaching, relational discipleship, and active family engagement. Catechetical instruction provides foundational knowledge, while Sunday school and mentorship programs support experiential and relational learning that enhances spiritual resilience. The research emphasizes the complementary role of the family and church in the faith formation process, highlighting the importance of intentional, consistent, and contextually relevant approaches. Drawing on insights from theological scholarship and practical ministry models, the study proposes four models for building a solid foundation of faith in children; The Discipleship-at-home Model, The Church Partnership Model, The Faith-in-Action Model and The Personalized Path Model. These models align with the principle of Proverbs 22:6 and present distinct yet complementary approaches to spiritual education, ranging from the foundational role of the home in cultivating a child’s faith to the broader involvement of the church and community. This study concludes that an enduring faith in children can be cultivated through collaborative, relational, and theologically grounded efforts that integrate both traditional and innovative methods of Christian formation. This research contributes to the discourse on spiritual development in childhood and offers practical recommendations for churches, educators, and families committed to raising spiritually grounded children in a rapidly changing world.
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.
The Role of Financial Policies and Procedures in the Management of Church Funds. A Case Study of North Ankole Diocese
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-26) Denis Atuzarirwe
In financial management not only must resources be acquired and allocated within the organization for the day-to-day use, they must also be efficiently and prudently used. The church as a nonprofit organization must not only ensure that this happens but it should also endeavor to prove that it happens. In this study financial management activities are supported by policies and procedures that, when carried out properly and in a timely manner, manage or reduce risks. Financial management is that function in an organization which is concerned with raising and allocation of resources in order to attain its goals. Financial management systems are in place as provided by the provincial financial and procedure manual 2011; however, funding is not sufficient and not through rightful required procedures. Planning and budgeting processes have got gaps and financial reports are not provided about the usage of financial resources by the concerned leaders. According to Smith (2019), financial policies are essential for churches to maintain ethical standards and comply with legal requirements. They provide a framework for how funds should be collected, documented and disbursed thereby preventing misuse or mishandling of donations. For instance, policies may outline procedures for conducting audits, segregating financial duties and ensuring that funds are used for their intended purposes such as ministry expenses or community outreach programs.

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