An inquiry into Tertullian’s theology of human suffering and its relationship to the life of contemporary christians in urban archdeaconry, Diocese of Northern Uganda (2015–2025)

Abstract

This study has examined Tertullian’s theology of human suffering and its relationship to the live life of contemporary Christians in the Urban Archdeaconry, Diocese of Northern Uganda specifically during the period 2015–2025. This dissertation worked out guided by three specific objectives as: to establish Tertullian’s theology of human suffering. To examine the post-NRA war effects faced by Christians in the Urban Archdeaconry. In addition, to explore the potential of Tertullian’s theology of human suffering in addressing challenges experienced by Christians in the study area. This study has only employed qualitative library-based research design. Documentary review of primary and secondary theological sources issue for data collection done and review of scholarly books, journal articles and historical documents relevant to Tertullian’s theology, including Christian suffering context of post-war realities in Northern Uganda. The collected data were analyzed using thematic review based on the content analysis techniques. The findings in particular revealed that Tertullian understood suffering as a tool for spiritual formation, formative Christian discipline and participation in the passion of Christ also including ecclesial identity and spiritual training. The study further established that Christians in the Urban Archdeaconry have continued to experience physical, social, economic, psychological and spiritual effects associated with the aftermath of the NRA/LRA war conflict. These challenges have included poverty, trauma and loss of hope, weakened social relationships, family instability and spiritual struggles. The study however, concluded that Tertullian’s theology of human suffering offers significant theological resources for fostering hope, resilience, moral courage, spiritual endurance, communal unity and pastoral healing among these Christians experiencing post-war challenges. The study greatly recommends that church leaders, theologians and the pastoral caregivers should contextualize Tertullian’s theological insights in a way that address contemporary realities of suffering while promoting healing, refurbishment and Christian hope within Northern Uganda. The major key words identified include Tertullian, Human Suffering, Christian Hope, Resilience, Post-War Effects, Northern Uganda and Urban Archdeaconry.