MISSIONAL ECCLESIOLOGY OF BUKEDI DIOCESE

Abstract

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.