Men's Perceptions of the Role of Small Christian Communities in the Catholic Diocese of Bungoma, Kenya
Abstract
Small Christian Communities (SCCs) play a vital role in the Catholic Church, particularly in Africa. However, in the Catholic Diocese of Bungoma, Kenya, there has been a notable low participation of men in these communities. This study aims to examine men's perceptions of the role of SCCs in the diocese and how these perceptions influence their participation. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing a cross-sectional survey and semi-structured interviews to gather data from men, priests, and religious leaders. The findings reveal that men primarily perceive SCCs as spaces for animating liturgical celebrations, spreading the gospel, and promoting justice and peace. These perceptions align with the spiritual, evangelistic, and social dimensions of SCCs highlighted in the literature. However, the study also identifies a lack of awareness among men regarding the financial contributions of SCCs to the Church. Analyzing the findings through the lens of Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Theory, the study suggests that men's perceptions of the relative advantage and compatibility of SCCs with their spiritual and social needs play a significant role in shaping their participation. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding men's perceptions in addressing the challenge of their low participation in SCCs. Recommendations are provided to enhance men's understanding and appreciation of the role of SCCs and to foster their active engagement in these communities. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on SCCs and lays the foundation for further research into the factors influencing men's participation in these vital components of the Catholic Church's pastoral and evangelistic mission.
Keywords
Small Christian Communities, men's participation, perceptions, Catholic Diocese of Bungoma, Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Theory
Citations
IRE Journals:
John Chesebe Kunikina
"Men's Perceptions of the Role of Small Christian Communities in the Catholic Diocese of Bungoma, Kenya" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 5 2024 Page 543-547
IEEE:
John Chesebe Kunikina
"Men's Perceptions of the Role of Small Christian Communities in the Catholic Diocese of Bungoma, Kenya" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(5)
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