Browsing by Author "Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond."

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A reformed critique of public health policies and practices in KwaZulu-Natal: a case study of Greytown Uniting Reformed Church in southern Africa.
(2022) Mbatha, Nkosinathi Lawrence.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This study examines the relationship between religion and health. It aims to establish a common framework of strengths, barriers, and recommendations for positive church responses to public health issues in order to inform an improved collaborative strategy between members in the Greytown Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa. Many churches are currently successfully involved in community development and empowerment, providing health workers and agencies with support and helping meet tangible needs of the people. In responding to the reformed critique of public health policies and practices in KwaZulu-Natal, this study undertakes a detailed analysis of key areas, namely the prospects and challenges for interchange and partnership between the worldviews guiding action of Reformed theology and public health in KwaZulu-Natal, the public health policies and practices in KZN, the role of Reformed Theology in public health, the opportunities and challenges of public health and reformed theology, a model that can be implemented to shape activities, formations and consequences to strengthen collaboration between public health and reformed theology, and ways the state and the church can collaborate to improve the public health system. The study is rooted in a theoretical framework of the African Religious Health Assets Programme (ARHAP) which has developed a theory to help establish the link that exists between religion and health in healthcare. The conclusions from the ARHAP theoretical framework are engaged in this study to identify tangible and intangible religious health assets and how they contribute to health promotion and care.
The Catholic Church and governance: an exploration of the relevance of the Ohacracy indigenous model of participatory governance in Igboland of South-Eastern Nigeria.
(2019) Anyanele, Chikadi John.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.; Owino, Kennedy Onyango.
More than half a century ago, the Vatican II ecumenical Council took place to redefine the influence of the Roman Catholic Church in the modern world. Ecumenical as the Council is known; the Vatican II theology re-established the Church anew as to be relevant in the contemporary world, thereby opening doors for lay participation in the Catholic Church governance. Despite the Council and its leaning towards lay participation in the universal Catholic Church, the Catholic communities in the Igbo Ohacracy of the South-eastern Nigeria and the larger Nigerian communities continue to battle towards the determination and realization of the roles or duties of the laity. A Church identified to be communal, consultative; and collegial in its ecclesiological understanding applies the image of a Family of God’s People envisions a participatory Church which the Vatican II had proposed. This is yet to be fully achieved especially among the Igbo Ohacracy people. This study is located between two opposing ideologies of governance: It therefore investigates the centralized system of governance of the Roman Catholic Church and the decentralized Igbo Ohacracy order. The study also analyses the collective lay participation in the common governance of the Catholic Church as recommended by Vatican II council. It also examines authority, the laity, participation of women and inculturation to interrogate governance in both the Catholic Church and Igbo Ohacracy systems of governance. Indeed, this study reveals that in order for the Catholic Church tradition to continue to make sense and meaning, the values of dialogue, listening and consensus decision making should guide its style of governance in dealing with the Igbo Ohacracy people of South-eastern Nigeria. The Igbo Ohacracy form of indigenous governance is the inspiration behind the study. The study focuses on the Roman Catholic Church among the Owerri-Okigwe Igbo of Southeastern Nigerian communities. As a theological project, this study is located within the field of ecclesiology under the discipline of Practical Theology. Church as home for millions of Roman Catholic adherents around the world can no longer remain isolated and less concerned in matters related to governance which the Church in general has inspired all around the world; not just among the Igbo Ohacracy people of South-eastern Nigeria. Each day, human beings experience governance in various ways as it affects them; whether in the family, the community, place of work, in the Church or society at large. This study has applied both “Large Ears” and “Inculturation” theoretical frameworks. The former refers to the ‘Manja Metaphor’ used in the Central African Republic. It signifies the eldest brother as the one who has developed the greatest capacity for ‘listening’ to the will of the ancestors and to the conversations going on in the family community Uzukwu (1996:143). As a major theory for this study, it represents dialogue, consensus and communal participation in the common ownership of community activities and decision making. The latter, inculturation remains a term used to signify the movement which takes local cultures and their values as basic instruments and powerful means for presenting, reformulating and living; Christianity Waliggo, (1991:506). It describes the contextual or cultural application in understanding and practising the Christian values. This study investigates how both the centralized model of the Roman Catholic Church governance and the decentralized Igbo Ohacracy indigenous orders affect the Igbo people who are caught up in between these two influential systems. It is therefore meaningful to note that this study shows the Vatican II Council’s recommendation and opens doors for lay participation in the governance of the Catholic Church. The Igbo Catholic communities are yet to realize this vision fully for its Catholic adherents. Surprisingly though, through the Ohacracy institutions as analysed, this study has demonstrated a high level of individual and group participation among the Igbo governance order. From all indications of the analysis of both the centralized Catholic Church and the decentralized Igbo Ohacracy orders, it reveals that though these two systems are directly opposed to each other, the receptive nature of the Igbo culture has rather encouraged coexistence of the two. Moreover, the aggressive, dynamic and vibrant developmental pursuit nature of the Catholic Church (for example, Western education and medicine) has also propelled the Igbo Ohacracy communities’ receptivity of the ways and activities of the Roman Catholic Church among them. Finally, the study concludes that true and meaningful co-existence is highly probable between two traditions. With the aid and application of listening, dialogue and consensus in decision making (“Large Ear Theory”) between these two systems, peaceful co-existence and progress/development will continue to be achieved. The respect of both traditions among the Igbo communities through the utilization of the values of inculturation in the Catholic Church as fully described in this study will go further to propagate the realization of value and cultural insights that have emerged in this study.
Catholic social teaching and the critique of Zambia as a Christian state: from 1991 to 2001.
(2024) Mukuka, Dominic Mulenga.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.; Denis, Philippe Marie Berthe Raoul.; Denis, Philippe Marie Berthe Raoul
This study delves into the complex relationship between Catholic social teaching and Zambia's declaration as a Christian state. It underscores the importance of maintaining the separation of church and state relations while advocating for constructive dialogue, respect for religious freedom, human dignity: the common good: human rights: participation in economic, political, social an cultural life of society: promotion of peace: solidarity and subsidiarity. The research draws on key encyclicals, such as Mater et Magistra, Pacem in Terris, Dignitatis Humanae (a conciliar document), Populorum Progressio, Octogesima Adveniens, and Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, as essential references for critiquing and engaging with the Christian state declaration. These encyclicals address a wide range of religious, social, political, and ethical issues and offer valuable guidance for the Catholic Church. The research methodology employed is characterized by a case study approach, which is well- suited for exploring the 'how' and 'why' questions and is ideal for interpretive paradigm of investigations. This approach allows for a deep examination of the intricate dynamics at play in the interaction between the Catholic social teaching and Christian state declaration. The study's findings emphasize the necessity of fostering a robust dialogue and debate regarding the Christian state declaration. It stresses the significance of maintaining a clear division between the church and the state relations, while encouraging the church to provide constructive criticism and engage with governance processes. This dialogue is crucial for safeguarding religious freedom, human rights, social justice, and the right to participate in governance. Furthermore, the study highlights the profound influence of the Catholic social teaching on various aspects, including the Christian state declaration, church-state relations, governance, and democratic practices in Zambia. To analyze these findings, a conceptual framework was utilized, incorporating philosophical hermeneutical concepts such as the "Fusion of Horizons" and Wirkungsgeschichte (Effect of History) by Gadamer, as well as the hermeneutical foundation of the "Normativity of the Future" by Bieringer and the "Emphatic Dialogue of Church-State models." These conceptual tools are essential components of the interpretive paradigm, which employs specific criteria, like theme categorization, to evaluate research findings. The interpretive assessment method was employed to thoroughly analyze the literature and data collected. This interpretative paradigm aims to understand phenomena from the participants' perspective rather than that of an objective observer, giving precedence to a subjective viewpoint in comprehending the data. On an axiological level, the interpretive paradigm prioritizes relevance over strict rigor. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between religion, governance, and societal harmony within the context of Zambia. It underscores the potential for the Catholic social teaching to serve as a guiding influence in the country's democratic practices and emphasizes the importance of respectful and constructive interactions between the church and the state to address contemporary challenges. These findings provide a foundational understanding for scholars and advocates interested in the ongoing discourse regarding the Catholic social teaching and its implications for Christian state declaration, church-state relations and democratic governance in Zambia.
A critical theological analysis of the HIV and AIDS policy of the Methodist Church in Swaziland.
(2007) Kisaalu, Rogers Ndawula.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
Swaziland is one of the countries most affected by HN and AIDS on the entire globe. The impact of the pandemic on the country is enormous with a prevalence of 42.6%. This has been so far the highest in Africa and possibly in the whole world. Due to this unbearable situation, a number of organizations, Church bodies, government and some individuals in the country are trying hard to counter the pandemic. This dissertation therefore seeks to outline the HIV epidemic in Swaziland and understand particularly the response of the Methodist Church to the epidemic. In dealing with the problem, the Methodist Church of Swaziland is using the Methodist Church of Southern Africa's (MCSA) HIV and AIDS policy document. In evaluating the MCSA HN and AIDS policy document, the thesis seeks to investigate the impact of the MCSA's response to HIV and AIDS. It also seeks to reflect theologically on the content of the policy document of the MCSA and to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the document and to establish whether it is relevant to the Swaziland context or not. In general the thesis looks at the HIV and AIDS situation in Swaziland, the Shalom concept as well-being, the document summary and also presents a critical analysis in which it discovers that there are good things in the policy document. However due to the theological gaps in the document, there is need for a solid theological foundation for it to be used as a necessary tool or a sine qua non instrument. Conclusively, to strengthen the policy document the thesis recommends a number of things which include also a more solid theological base.
Exploring the role of the United Church of Zambia in institutional education in the public space.
(2019) Zulu, Mary Mwiche.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.; Siwila, Lilian Cheelo.
This study sought to explore to what extent the United Church of Zambia (hereafter the UCZ), understands its role in institutional education that is in the public space. The problem of the study was conceptualized in the background formation of the UCZ, in which it inherited an institutional education ministry that is in the public space, and is referred to as its mission schools. Despite the UCZ being in existence since 1965, the preliminary literature search revealed that there is very little, if any, literature that describes the role of the UCZ in institutional education that is in the public space. The study further problematized that what is often described of Church schools to be Christian Education falls short of the theological distinctions in the light of secular philosophies that govern public educational systems. Therefore, the study explored the interpretation of Christian education from a theological, historical and philosophical perspective to locate what the UCZ understands of its role in institutional education. The key question that this study engaged with is: “to what extent does the UCZ understand its role in institutional education that is in the public space?” The key findings of this study can be categorised into three areas; philosophical, theological and in systems theory. The UCZ lacks an institutional philosophy of education that makes its role appear ambiguous in meaning and purpose. This is shown in the understanding of its role as secular and sacred, with the grant aided schools representing the former, and the private schools the latter. In addition, despite its strong background of understanding that education is for evangelism, the trends, patterns and relationship of its education ministry indicate a lack of ethos as it depends so much on the humanistic secular philosophies that determine modern education. This has led me to conclude that the UCZ lacks a defined policy and administrative structure for its education that is in the public space. Therefore, it allows the Church to perpetuate a hegemonic theology of mission in that projects a Eurocentric model of education. As a result, the role of the UCZ is seemingly weak in terms of defining its role- identity and purpose in education that is in the public space. It is much more evident now as this study finds that the UCZ does not have a comprehensive system to manage all its educational ministry.
From Bishop Phillip Russell to Bishop Nkosinathi Ndwandwe: an examination of the causes of decline in membership at the Cathedral of the Holy Nativity in Pietermaritzburg from 1976-2021.
(2023) Khanyile, Siboniso Artwell.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
There is a noticeable exodus of members globally from the mainline Protestant churches. As a result, in other parts of the world the infrastructure that belonged to the mainline Churches is being sold to the secular world. The Anglican Church in Natal is not immune from this phenomenon. This research study uses the Cathedral of the Holy Nativity in Pietermaritzburg as a case study to examine the causes of membership decline in the Anglican Church in Natal from 1976 to 2021. The Cathedral of the Holy Nativity is the mother Church of the Diocese of Natal. The causes of membership decline were examined through interviews that were conducted in terms of the Covid-19 protocols imposed by the University of KwaZulu-Natal Research Office, with the previous members and current (2021) leadership of the Cathedral. In addition, desk research was undertaken utilising Diocesan and Parish archives, on-line resources, journal articles, published books, and other literature made available through the University’s library services and elsewhere. The study found that the Cathedral of the Holy Nativity in Pietermaritzburg began as a unified Parish of white congregants in 1976, with black congregant members only beginning to join in the early 1990’s, following the repeal of the Group Area Act No. 41 of 1950 on 30 June 1991. Notwithstanding, the Cathedral has suffered the decline of both white and black congregants within 45 years of its existence. Among other things, the study found that social ills, politicaland secular-landscape changes, as well as the presence of untransformed imperialist doctrines, liturgy, and practices contributed in different ways to the exodus of congregant members. This work has the potential to challenge the leaders and laity of not only the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, but mainline churches both in South Africa and globally to undertake serious introspection and self-correction, to find new ways to attract and retain its members.
Gender, poverty and the church : a case study of refugee women of the Gilgal International Fellowship Church in Durban, South Africa.
(2013) Sisango, Jacques Kasindi.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This study is centred on refugee women from the Great Lakes Region (Burundi, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo) living in Durban and who face numerous challenges that have contributed to their poverty and social inequality. These challenges include, inter alia, unemployment, language barriers, gender-biased violence, xenophobia and other socio-economic problems. This dissertation seeks to critically investigate some of the gender-sensitive challenges that these refugee women face and which make them vulnerable to abuse and discrimination in society. Although a plethora of literature has been written on the challenges of refugee women in Africa, there is not much written on the challenges of refugee women who live in cities in South Africa. This study involves twenty-two participants, consisting of twenty women and two male church leaders of GIFC in Durban where these refugee women now live and work. The study argues that the Church should engage in gender-sensitive empowerment programmes for refugee women in order to empower them to respond to their challenges. The research is based on the premise that GIFC has the mandate to address the challenges and concerns faced by refugee women vide a holistic approach to their problems.
How can the Young Men's Guild (YMG) respond to the needs for the prevention of HIV (MCSA) : with special reference to King William's Town circuit.
(2006) Guzana, Zukile Wesley.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This research undertook to establish how the YMG in KWT circuit become fruitfully involved in the prevention of HIV and AIDS. It is argued here that the YMG is strategically situated in the church to address issues in the Xhosa-Christian culture that exacerbate the spread of HIV. These include issues like maleness and gender inequality, safer sex practices and the place of condoms and the promotion of sex ethics. The YMG is historically a centre for peer education, resilience in suffering, and morale building. It was the YMG that enabled the church to stand and strategise against apartheid. It is therefore a suitable space for Aids debate, education, and strategising on prevention methods. The YMG is also a well-to-do forum for airing the voices of the Xhosa Christian men on AIDS issues. It is, as well, a good support forum for addressing treatment and bereavement in an allempt to demythologise the Aids disease. However, it is the submission of this research that the YMG needs certain focusing in order to become fruitfully involved in prevention efforts. It is therefore recommended that the age disparity within the study circles of the YMG be resolved in order to create openness and comradeship. The membership of YMG at the present stretches from 17 years to 70 years. Members of YMG with this age disparity cannot talk freely on sexuality and HIV unless the groupings are systematised. There is also the need to bring on board such church leaders in the circuit so as to address morality and sexuality within the Methodist doctrinal perspective.
An inculturative critique of Holy Communion symbols within the Anglican community of the Diocese of Thika, Kenya.
Kiarie, George Kuria.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.; Hewitt, Roderick Raphael.
Holy Communion symbols (wafers and wine) were new phenomenon when they were introduced in the Anglican Church in Kenya. This study seeks to investigate how the diocesan Christians in Thika have constructed meaning around these symbols and the extent to which these symbols have been indigenised in the diocesan context. The study findings disclose that there is discontent in use of Holy Communion symbols in the Anglican tradition due to different contexts. As symbols are contextual, their use in some Provinces has been perceived as a locus of alienation of the people, rather than salvation. The result has been an unofficial rise of substitution of these symbols in most Provinces in the Anglican Communion, because they are not only foreign symbols, but sometimes offensive to the people they are intended to communicate. In the diocese of Thika, Christians have socially constructed diverse meaning on these symbols as meaning varies and is amplified when symbols are taken out of their context. The study established that these symbols are understood as a symbol of the body and blood of Jesus Christ as universally shared Christian experience in the globe. However, it emerged other diverse meanings constructed by diocesan Christians viewed them as foreign products, prohibited products, symbol of modernity and symbol of neo-colonialism. The study applied inculturation theory as the framework to unearth the contextual meaning of Holy Communion symbols constructed by diocesan Christians as well as how these symbols have been indigenised in Thika. Methodologically, this study was a qualitative research where sixty-seven participants from twenty-five parishes in the diocese were engaged. Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and questionnaires were engaged while thematic and discourse analyses were used in data analysis. The analysis of the findings suggested dynamic selective (equivalence) inculturation of the Holy Communion symbols. Therefore, the study concludes first, that the diocesan Christians ascribe more to Holy Communion symbols as symbol of the body and blood of Christ in relation to the other constructed meaning. Second, the diocese is conservative, highly influenced by diachronic logic of conscious tradition and its inherited evangelical roots from the English Church. In spite of the imported meaning, Holy Communion symbols been contextualized in the diocese of Thika where there are marginal voices urging for the use of indigenous symbols of nourishment that would communicate to people effectively and lead them to experience God in a more revitalized way in their context.
Inter-religious marriage counselling in South Africa : towards a counselling model for inter-religious couples : a Christian perspective.
(2016) Govender, Jezreel.; Smit, Johannes Andries.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
The research is on inter-religious marriage and counselling from a Christian perspective. Although religious intolerance and resistance to inter-religious and inter-faith marriages exist in society, it appears that inter-religious marriages are on the increase. Since couples in inter-religious marriage experience more challenges than couples from the same religion, it is necessary to develop an integrated counselling model that may be used to counsel such couples. In view of this, skilful counsellors and appropriate counselling are needed. The research will focus on the transformation process in South Africa; the dynamics of the family; religion and culture; the dynamics of marriage; the conceptualizing of inter-religious marriages and its challenges; the understanding of the influence of Christianity upon inter-religious marriages; the different counselling theories; and the nature of a relevant integrated counselling model for inter-religious marriages. The transformation process had caused a huge impact in South Africa religiously and culturally. The communication across religions an cultures have opened up, hence the increase in inter-religious relationships and marriages. The major religions of the world hold different views concerning inter-religious marriages. Christianity, Islam and Hinduism prohibit inter-religious marriages to various degrees. Despite the restrictions inter-religious, interfaith and inter-cultural marriages still do take place. Christianity allows inter-religious under certain conditions and also inter-cultural marriages if the partners are Christians. All inter-religious marriages pose new challenges, especially when it concerns the religious traditions and cultural issues. Most couples possess a limited ability to find solutions to these challenges. They are, therefore, often unable to cope in these situations – to reach compromises and amicably deal with their challenges. In view of this, a counsellor is required to assist. Appropriate counselling is needed in inter-religious marriages. The counsellor needs to be skilful in order to intervene in these marriages. Therefore, different counselling elements are examined in order to create a relevant integrated Psycho-spiritual counselling model for inter-religious marriages.
A pastoral critique of the Evangelical Reformed Church of Christ (ERCC) methods of bereavement counselling : retrieving the Eggon indigenous awhiku concept of bereavement management.
(2015) Affiku, Monday Engom.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This study focuses on the exploration of the nature of the Eggon indigenous Awhiku concept of bereavement management and the methods of the ERCC (Church) bereavement counselling. The purpose of the study is to engage the Eggon indigenous Awhiku concept of bereavement management and the current ERCC methods of bereavement counselling into a critical dialogue in order to formulate and develop a comprehensive model of bereavement counselling for the ERCC. Using inculturation as the main tool in this exploration, I argue that by consciously allowing Christian faith and the local culture(s) to engage in a dialogue, the Christian reality will be appropriated from within the perspectives and resources of the Eggon culture to challenge and transform the current ERCC model of bereavement counselling, thereby resulting in the comprehensive model of bereavement counselling. The thesis argues that the current methods of bereavement counselling used by the ERCC among the Eggon Christians are not sufficient. Reasons for this include the ignorance exhibited by the early Christian missionaries who brought the gospel but did not give adequate attention to the Eggon traditional practices of bereavement management in order to incorporate the positive aspects into the Christian model of bereavement counselling. In addition, there is the influence of westernization, urbanization, globalization, multi-ethnic and cultural associations, the internet and other technology in general. The study also finds that many Eggon youths are ignorant of the Eggon traditional methods of bereavement management and its significance. This is due to external influences mentioned above, and to their migration at an early age with their parents, in search of greener pastures to make a living, or to the cities looking for job opportunities. I argue that the failure on the part of the early missionaries as well as the indigenous ERCC leadership to employ an intercultural approach to bereavement counselling is the major cause of the problem of increasing isolation and loneliness of those in need of care as a result of a diminished community support network (involvement). The result is that many bereaved families and those faced with other crises are left feeling isolated and alone as people tend to be more concerned with their immediate families, relegating the accompaniment of others in crisis situations to the pastor or the elders of the church. The question that the study wishes to answer is: How can the ERCC provide bereavement counselling among the Eggon people taking into account their indigenous Awhiku concept of bereavement management for effective healing? In attempting to answer this question three theories were used to test the church’s methods of bereavement counselling, namely inculturation theory, the theory of incorporation and community theory. The study is structured into eight chapters. Participants in the study are categorized into three groups: the ERCC ministers/church elders, elderly members of the Eggon community and the bereaved families. Through interviews and focus group discussions with participants, relevant data was generated and subjected to rigorous analysis. Most of the participants, including the ERCC ministers and some of the early missionaries, acknowledged that they have taken no notice of the model Eggon people used to provide as a coping mechanism to one another during bereavement. This thesis proposes a comprehensive model that encompasses both the Christian and the cultural approach to bereavement counselling.
Pastoral ministry to single women in the Church of Christ in Nigeria, Gigiring Regional Church Council, Jos, Nigeria.
(2014) Jakawa, Rahila Leng.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.; Joshua, Stephen Muoki.
Beginning with the assumption that the church is a liberative space where everyone, single women in particular, can experience wholeness, this thesis investigates the extent to which the Church of Christ in Nigeria (COCIN) executes pastoral ministry to single women. The hypothesis of the study is that the concept of women in the COCIN, the COCIN’s pastoral training and its inability to appropriate the shepherding and facilitatory model of Jesus, have not enabled an effective pastoral ministry to single women. This thesis therefore proceeds to assess the COCIN’s theology of marriage and singleness, the role of women in the COCIN, marriage and family life in Jos today, the theological education and pastors’ training of the church and the execution of pastoral ministry to single women. This is to ascertain how these have impacted on the way the COCIN offers pastoral care to single women. This work is a combination of insights from social analyses, feminist cultural hermeneutics and feminist pastoral care and communal contextual pastoral care frameworks. While establishing that culture has had a strong influence on the pastoral ministry practice of the COCIN, methods were identified from the ideas generated by participants as well as relevant literature on the subject, that could be used for the execution of pastoral ministry to single women in the COCIN Regional Church Council, Gigiring, Jos. The data for the study was collected using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation. Participants were categorised into church leaders, clergy, seminary lecturers, magistrates, adult children from divorced marriages and single,never married women and men and divorced women. The findings of the study indicate that with respect to ministry to single women, pastoral ministry in the COCIN has not been liberative, empowering and transformative. Most of the participants indicate that the lack of an effective pastoral ministry to single women is a result of inadequate preparation for dealing with gender complexities in the pastoral training of the church. Although the study has significant implications for the overall pastoral ministry of the church,the findings of this study highlight the necessity of a gender-inclusive pastoral ministry in the COCIN for single women and for the entire church. The study underscores the need for the COCIN to utilise the communal care practice characteristic of African culture for effective pastoral ministry to the different categories of people, particularly the single,never married and divorced women in its congregations.
Peace-building in Nigeria : a missio-political critique of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN)'s relationship with the Plateau State within the context of violent conflict in Jos, Nigeria (2001-2010).
Pokol, Benjamin Junnang.; Hewitt, Roderick Raphael.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This study focuses on a critique of the nature of church-state relations that exists between the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) and the Plateau State, Nigeria, with a view of assessing the extent to which the nature of this relationship influenced the experience of violent conflict within Jos, Nigeria, especially from 2001 to 2010. This study argues that when there is a confusion of roles and lack of clarity in their relations, whereby it facilitates violence and inhibits the development of the people, thereby denying them fullness of life (John 10:10 NIV). Only when Church and State understand and use power, “as being everywhere, diffused and embodied in discourse, knowledge, and ‘regimes of truth,’ making us what we are, and not concentrated, not possessed, not coercive or an instrument of coercion, not concentrated in structures, not episodic, not sovereign, and not an act of domination” (Foucault, 1998:63-68), will their relations be constructive and foster the well-being of all the citizens of Jos, Plateau State. Power ought not to be construed as a negative force that is utilized to discriminate and exploit the powerless, but should be a positive and constructive force that promotes the well-being of all within society (Foucault, 1991:194). If the exercise of power fails to promote life through peaceful and common participation of all its citizens in the decisions that affect their well-being, it inevitably becomes destructive. Based on the research question that undergirds the study, I utilize a systematic literature reviews method to assess the existing literature on church-state relations with special emphasis on relevant literature from the Nigerian context, covering the colonial and post-colonial contexts, as well as the wider sub-Saharan African context. The study explores the historical models of church-state relations that have emerged from the history of Western Christianity as a background to explain how they promoted or inhibited peace-building in their contexts. This served as a sign-post to the evolution of the nature of church-state relations that existed between the COCIN and the Plateau State during the colonial and post-colonial periods of Nigeria’s history. The study is a critique of the prevailing model of church-state relationship in the socio-political and economic context of the Nigerian State. The aim was to assess the extent to which it promoted or inhibited peace-building in Jos, and how it influences their current relations and peace-building process in the State. In search of an improved peace-building process in Jos, the study suggests a Suum-Ngi model of religions-state relations as an alternative African model for relations between religions and Plateau State as a replacement of the extant Church and State model that has served only to foster violence.
The role of churches in rebuilding community relations in south Kivu between 1996 and 2006.
(2008) Kabati, Jean-Daniel.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
The purpose of this study is to predict and evaluate whether the participation of the churches in the South Kivu region during the period 1996-2006 in rebuilding broken intercommunity relations and addressing problems of conflict has made any tangible contribution to final outcomes of the political crisis that led to the elections in the DRC in 2006 elections. The study submits the collected data composed of religious, archival documents drawn from the church participation in armed-conflict problem resolution, religious essays and interview response data to careful analysis in order to distil an appropriate practical theological framework methodology for the investigation. A qualitative approach was used in collecting data because the practical theological methodology applied by previous studies in this field endorses this approach as the most appropriate methodology for this type of research study. In its application of the practical theological framework, the study adopted a collaborative approach as opposed to participation involving only churches. The following findings and conclusions have emerged from the analysis of the data collected for the five subtopics - regional politics, social responsibility, peace and reconciliation, insecurity, and cultural transformation - which constitute Chapter Five: Findings and Conclusion. 1. Regional politics The churches' response to the political bungling that characterised the period 1996-2006 was initially confined to verbal criticism devoid of concrete efforts which finally matured into practical theological implementation measures that addressed the intercommunity relations rebuilding and reconstruction of collapsed socio-economic and political structures 2. Social responsibility The churches' successful collaboration with local and human rights international bodies led to resolution of many conflict problems and the provision of many social services for the victims of the conflicts. 3. Peace and reconciliation The study reveals that the churches' efforts towards peace and reconciliation through various church functions in disseminating their moral messages proved very effective in addressing problems and encouraging peace between conflicting political platfonns. 4. Insecurity Church organisations, particularly the Catholic Church, cooperated with the Security Council to enhance security measures in the areas affected by the anned conflicts and the churches became places of refuge for internally displaced persons, where the traumatized received spiritual support. The churches' messages of peace influenced some soldiers to renounce anned violence and to become re-integrated into civilian life. 5. Cultural transfonnation. The church's messages on morality and peace were instrumental in shaping the cultural direction of the inhabitants of South Kivu and succeeded in creating the culture of nonviolent resistance advocated by Ghandi. The study reveals that the churches' efforts towards peace and reconciliation through various church functions in disseminating their moral messages proved very effective in addressing problems and encouraging peace between conflicting political platfonns. resistance advocated by Ghandi.
The role of the churches in educating people for the development of democracy : the case of the United Church of Zambia.
(2015) Mabuluki, Kangwa.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.; Moyo, Herbert.
The role of the Churches in politics has been a very controversial subject, which has often led to a clear division, with some churches supporting the involvement of churches in politics, and others advocating that churches should not be involved in politics. Those who advocate that the churches should not in any way be involved in politics believe that the churches should concentrate on its role of preaching the gospel and preparing souls for heaven. Others on the other hand advocate that such an assertion is a misunderstanding of the gospel which in its totality call for the church to be involved in the whole of life including what may be branded politics, as Kaunda1 observed: In spite of my early revolt against the missionaries, I knew that the Christian religion had something important to say to us in our political movement. We were always looking for Christians to support us in our struggle... In a young country like Northern Rhodesia, churches have a big part to play in its development. They cannot hope to succeed by confining their work to church buildings... It is my firm belief that we need an increasing number of Christian men and women in all political parties. It was our good Lord who said that his disciples should be the salt of the earth.2 This study focuses on arguing for the notion that the churches should by all means be involved in educating people to be involved in the development of democracy. We argue that God’s purpose is for the realization of “Shalom” as expounded by Perry Yoder who argues that Shalom is Peace which is not just the absence of war and conflict, but the realization of God’s purpose of having things the way they should be3. Shalom as the realization of peace and justice, and "life in its fullness" (John 10:10) for which Jesus came. Using the case of the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) to develop this argument, we stress the importance of the education ministry of the Church. But we also note from our research that in the UCZ as in many Churches, the teaching ministry, commonly termed Christian Education (CE), is not developed to its full potential but often limited to doctrinal teaching and discipleship, focused especially on the children and youth. Supported by scholars like Bongani Mazibuko, R Simangaliso Kumalo, Samson Makhado, we argue for the transformation of CE, so that it addresses areas that are critical for the people, and one such area we propose is the development of democracy. In this regard we argue for the use of CE to enhance the development of democracy through “democracy education”. Democracy education as advocated in this study entails the inclusion of a course or module aimed at teaching democracy in the CE program, but it also means the provision of general education in various forms that would enhance the development of democracy. Having taken time to assess the CE program of the UCZ we end with some suggestions for a way forward among which is an example of elements which should be included in a module on democracy in a CE program.
The Catholic Church and COVID-19: a critical appraisal of how Our Lady of Good Health Parish in the Archdiocese of Durban Operated during the lockdown restrictions.
(2023) Bembele, Gino David.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This study is a critical assessment of how the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Durban has navigated through COVID-19. The researcher selected Our Lady of Good Health Parish in the Archdiocese Durban to see how it responded to the pandemic from the time of its discovery in March 2020 to the time restrictions were lifted in April 2021. This study argues that Our Lady of Good Health Parish responded appropriately to the pandemic by implementing all the regulations that were promulgated by the government and the Catholic Church itself. The research followed a qualitative approach, and data was collected through interviews from 12 respondents from Our Lady of Good Health Parish. The primary data was analysed thematically. The study found that there were both positive and negative consequences that arose because of COVID-19, most of the congregants had been impacted and had to alter their church routine. There was a huge decrease in the attendance levels at the Catholic Church, the Parish had implemented social distancing measures, there was a loss of the essence of the church, there was an online church sermon trend adopted and sacraments could not be replaced with phones or online services. The study recommends that the Parish must identify workable and practical strategies to enhance the return of the faithful to the Church, involve its faithful and many other stakeholders of interest in the making of plans for how they can go forward as a church, must observe and learn from other congregations, and must ensure that they take the COVID-19 epidemic as a lesson that would inform other crises in the future. The research recommends that studies must be carried out to help the faithful on how to deal with the negative consequences of not physically attending church during pandemics such as Covid-19. Such studies would provide ways of promoting church attendance after the pandemic since several faithful still find it difficult to return to church.
Theology and education : the role of the church in education for social transformation : a Methodist contribution.
(2005) Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
Towards a theology of labour: a theo-historical enquiry of the interface between the English speaking churches and labour (1985-1995).
(2015) Abrahams, Ivan Manuel.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This study critically examines the relationship between the English-speaking Churches (ESC) and labour organizations in South Africa between 1985-1995. Following Richard Osmer’s model of practical theological interpretation, this study analyses the historical context of oppression in South Africa as a hermeneutical key to assess the role of the ESC and their relation to labour. Drawing from the Bible, other sources in the Christian tradition and the work of four contemporary theologians, the study identifies building blocks for a contextual theology of labour in an attempt to close the gap between theory and praxis. Particular attention is devoted to identify organisations committed to worker struggles during the period under review and their contributions to the relationships between Church and labour is assessed. The study explores why the ESC failed to translate their resolutions on labour into concrete actions or effective and coherent programmes alongside workers. Furthermore, the exploration offers insights and identifies ways to build healthy church and labour relations in contemporary society. The concept of human work as participating in God’s creative and continuing work of liberation to build a more just world is critically examined. This study claims that work gives meaning to life and is part of God’s salvation plan. This study concludes by connecting faith to the world of work and argues that churches can offer valuable and unique perspectives on work. Practical ways are suggested for the Church to contribute towards a genuine theology of labour and support the rights of workers.
Water theology and religious engagement in interfaith dialogue to mitigate water scarcity in Botshabelo.
(2023) Mapulanga, Michael.; Kumalo, Simangaliso Raymond.
This research project focuses on a quest for an interfaith dialogue on water theology in the context of water scarcity in Botshabelo, a region in the Free State Province of South Africa. Water theology in this study stands for the theology that cares for water and the environment. From 2014, Botshabelo has been affected by water scarcity which has severely affected people in their daily living and religious rituals. The adherents of African Traditional Religion, Christianity and Islam argue that despite the water shortages in Botshabelo, religious leaders have not been vocal in advocating for water conservation. The adherents of religions in Botshabelo claim that the engagement of religious leaders in interfaith dialogue and advocacy for water conservation could assist in mitigating water scarcity in Botshabelo. According to these believers, the absence of advocacy for water conservation by religious leaders signifies the lack of care for nature. This thesis aims at investigating how could the engagement of religious leaders through interfaith dialogue assist in mitigating the crisis of water scarcity in Botshabelo. The thesis assesses the role and the significance of religion in addressing social problems. The study focuses on three major religions in Botshabelo, namely; African Traditional Religion, Christianity and Islam to obtain the wide views and responses about their engagement in multifaith dialogue to conserve water in Botshabelo. It is also a finding of this study that even though religious leaders are willing to discuss the problem of water scarcity, they lack the tools and approaches which could be provided by interfaith dialogue. Furthermore, it is a finding of the study that water scarcity is due to the failure of the society to take responsibility for water conservation. While recognizing the contributions of the available scholarship on the aspect of water scarcity in South Africa, this study proposes a care for water which is called in this thesis as a theology of water informed by an interfaith dialogue theory of Michael Fitzgerald (2000) and Hans Küng (2004).