To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Church in zimbabwe.
Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Church in zimbabwe'
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'Church in zimbabwe.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse dissertations / theses on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Rutoro, Rangarirai. "Lay leadership development in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/5490.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (DTh (Practical Theology and Missiology))--University of Stellenbosch, 2007.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The dissertation explores lay leadership developments in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe by investigating the leadership history of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) from 1891 when it was founded in Zimbabwe, to the present. Chapter 1 introduces the problem statement, i.e. the exclusion of laity and women in the broader church structures, dominated by male clergy. It currently blocks transformation. The hypothesis of this study is that lay leadership is not sufficiently represented in the leadership structures of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe. Reasons for this can be that the influence of the clerical paradigm model of leadership, or the hierarchical Shona culture structures, adopted by the missionaries of the RCZ are still haunting the leadership of the church. The methodological framework for the study is practical theology, used by Hendriks (2004). Some important working concepts are explained and a short historical background of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe is laid out. In Chapter 2 different views on church offices are discussed. Methodologically, the Word of God provides the normative basis from which the problem statement is addressed. In Chapter 3 some aspects of the historical background of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe are described. The Shona cultural background and its hierarchical structures are discussed in order to determine how the Shona culture influenced the leadership structures of the church to exclude laity and women. In Chapter 4 the history of leadership in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe is explored and the position of the lay people from 1891 to the present is discussed. This is done to determine whether there have been developments in the area of laity inclusion in the broader leadership structures of the church and to prove or disapprove the statement that the broader leadership structures of the church were dominated by male clergy. Chapter 5 presents the empirical part of the study. Attitudes towards women in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe are analyzed through qualitative research methods. The data was gathered through interviews that assessed the relation between laity and clergy and men and women in the church. Negative and positive attitudes have been noted from the different groups that were interviewed. Chapter 6 describes the Zimbabwean situation which influences the church leadership due to the pressure of the political, economic, education and health situation in the country. The influence of modernism and postmodern megatrends towards church leadership styles are discussed. These trends seek participation of every individual member for transformation to take place. In Chapter 7 the focus is on five strategies to empower lay leadership to participate in all the broader structures of the RCZ. It also focuses on the applicability of lay leadership development in the RCZ. Finally, the overall summary, conclusion and recommendations are given in Chapter 8. The recommendations need to be considered by the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe in order to strengthen the inclusion of laity and women in the broader structures of the church. The research proved that lay leadership development is gradually taking place in the RCZ, but empowerment of laity and women is still needed.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie proefskrif is 'n verkennende studie oor ongeskoolde leierskapontwikkelings in die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe. Leierskap geskiedenis van die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe word ondersoek vanaf 1891 toe dit tot stand gekom het in Zimbabwe tot huidiglik. Hoofstuk 1 omskryf die probleemstelling, naamlik die uitsluiting van ongeskooldes en vroue in breë kerk strukture wat gedomineer word deur manlike klerke. Huidiglik stuit dit transformasie. Die hipotesis van die studie is dat ongeskoolde leierskap nie voldoende verteenwoordig word in die leierskapstrukture van die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe nie. Redes hiervoor kan wees dat die invloed van die klerklike paradigma model van leierskap of die hierargiese Shona kultuur, wat deur die sendelinge van die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe aangeneem is, steeds die leierskap van die kerk oorheers. Die metodologiese raamwerk van die studie is praktiese teologie, soos gebruik deur Hendriks (2004). Van die belangrike konsepte word verduidelik en 'n kort historiese oorsig van die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe word uiteengesit. In Hoofstuk 2 word verskillende standpunte van kerkkantore bespreek. Metodologies verskaf die Woord van God die normatiewe basis vanwaar die probleemstelling aangespreek word. In Hoofstuk 3 word sekere aspekte van die historiese agtergrond van die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe beskryf. Die Shona kulturele agtergrond en sy hierargiese strukture word bespreek sodat daar bepaal kan word hoe die Shona kultuur die leierskapstrukture van die kerk beinvloed het om ongeskooldes en vroue uit te sluit. In Hoofstuk 4 word die geskiedenis van leierskap in die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe verken en die posisie van ongeskoolde mense, vanaf 1891 tot huidiglik, word bespreek. Dit word gedoen om te bepaal of daar enige ontwikkelings in die area van die insluiting van ongeskooldes in die breë leierskapstrukture van die kerk was en om te bepaal of die stelling dat die breë leierskapstrukture van die kerk gedomineer is deur manlike klerke waar of onwaar is. Hoofstuk 5 behels die empiriese deel van die studie. Houdings teenoor vroue in die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe word geanaliseer deur middel van kwalitatiewe navorsingsmetodes. Die data is versamel deur middel van onderhoude wat die verhouding tussen ongeskooldes en klerklikes en mans en vroue in die kerk assesseer. Negatiewe en positiewe houdings is genotuleer komende vanaf die verskillende groepe wat deelgeneem het aan die onderhoude. Hoofstuk 6 beskryf die Zimbabwiese situasie wat die kerkleierskap beïnvloed deur middel van die druk wat die politieke, ekonomiese, onderwys en gesondheidsituasie in die land daarop plaas. Die invloed van modernisme en postmodernistiese mega-neigings teenoor kerkleierskap style word bespreek. Hierdie neigings streef na die deelname van elke individuele lid sodat transformasie kan plaasvind. Hoofstuk 7 fokus op vyf strategieë om ongeskoolde leierskap te bemagtig om deel te neem aan die breë strukture van die RCZ. Dit fokus ook op die toepaslikheid van ongeskoolde leierskapontwikkeling in die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe. Die algehele opsomming, slot en aanbevelings word in Hoofstuk 8 bespreek. Die aanbevelings moet deur die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe oorweeg word sodat die insluiting van ongeskooldes en vroue in die breë strukture van die kerk versterk kan word. Hierdie navorsing bewys dat ongeskoolde leierskap ontwikkeling geleidelik besig is om plaas te vind in die Gereformeerde Kerk in Zimbabwe, maar dat bemagtiging van ongeskooldes en vroue steeds nodig is.
2
Munikwa, Christopher. "The Binga outreach : the contextualisation of mission in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/6598.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (DTh (Practical Theology and Missiology))-- University of Stellenbosch, 2011.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The research starts with a descriptive study of the traditional missionary model used by the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) in South Africa in planting what is now known as the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ). The purpose of this descriptive part is to understand why certain mistakes are constantly repeated in cross-cultural outreach work and to prevent it from happening again. The RCZ is challenged to develop intercultural missionary theory and practice. The outreach towards the Tonga communities living in the Binga district in Zimbabwe.s North-Western province is used as an extended case study in developing a new missional framework for the RCZ. The research question is thus: How is the RCZ appropriately, meaningfully and relevantly to express the missional praxis of God within the context of the Tonga people? The research argues that meaningful missional reflection has to start with knowing and understanding the Tonga people. The RCZ would then not fall in the same trap of the European missionaries who had an ethnocentric superiority attitude. This calls for a paradigm shift in the RCZ.s thinking and doing mission. The RCZ needs to participate in the Mission of God with love and humility. The research argues that there is a need for the RCZ to revisit and carry out a critical analysis concerning her thinking and strategies of mission today. The RCZ is to develop a relevant framework that will allow the Tonga people to be conscious instruments of their own transformation in their own socio-cultural context. The goal of the study is to have a shift in the RCZ towards a missiological approach that is appropriate, meaningful and relevant in order to facilitate the transformation of the community she serves and ministers to. This framework for doing Christian mission should be Biblical, communal and contextual in the RCZ and at the same time encourage reflective involvement of the faith community in the missio Dei. The research proposes an intercultural mission as appropriate in our context, not a cross-cultural one. The research concludes that the DRC.s traditional mission model profoundly influenced the identity and present mission practice of the RCZ. A better understanding of the identity of both the DRC and the RCZ will enlighten the members of the RCZ to accept the missio Dei as their vocation and challenge. Now and in future, it will help the RCZ members who are participating in intercultural mission to make more informed plans and decisions.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die navorsing begin met beskrywende studie van die tradisionele sendingmodel wat deur die Nederduits Gereformeerde Kerk (NGK) gebruik is in die totstandkoming van wat nou bekend is as die Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ). Die doel van die beskrywende deel is om te verstaan hoekom bepaalde foute gemaak is in die kruis-kulturele uitreike van die verlede en om nie daardie foute te bly herhaal nie. Die RCZ moet interkulturele missionale teorie en praktyk leer ontwikkel. Die uitreik na die Tonga gemeenskap in die Binga distrik in Zimbabwe se Noord-Westelike provinsie word gebruik as uitgebreide gevallestudie in die ontwikkeling van nuwe missionale benadering vir die RCZ. Die navorsingsvraag is: Hoe moet die RCZ, binne die konteks van die Tonga volk, die missio Dei toepaslik, betekenisvol en relevant uitdruk? Die navorsing aanvaar dat as die RCZ gepaste en betekenisvolle sending-benadering wil ontwikkel, hulle die Tonga volk moet ken en verstaan. Die RCZ moet nie die foute van die Europese sendelinge met hul etnosentriese meerderwaardige houding herhaal nie. Dit benodig paradigmaskuif in die RCZ se denke en sendingwerk want hulle was op pad om dieselfde foute te maak. Die RCZ moet met liefde en nederigheid deelneem aan die missio Dei. Haar optrede moet nie meerderwaardigheid teenoor die Tonga mense weerspieel nie. Die navorsing stel dus voor dat die RCZ se herbesin en kritiese analise doen van haar huidige denke en strategiee. Die RCZ moet relevante raamwerk ontwikkel wat die Tonga volk sal toelaat om bewustelike instrumente van hul eie transformasie in hul eie sosio-kulturele konteks te wees. Die doel van hierdie studie is skuif in die RCZ na missionale benadering wat gepas, betekenisvol en relevant is ten einde die transformasie van die gemeenskap wat gedien en bedien word, te vergemaklik. Hierdie studie is poging om 'n raamwerk te ontwikkel vir die doen van sendingwerk wat Bybels, gemeenskaplik en kontekstueel binne die RCZ is en wat denkende betrokkenheid van die geloofsgemeenskap in die missio Dei sal aanmoedig. 'n Interkulturele benadering tot sending is in die konteks gepas, en nie 'n kruis-kulturele sending benadering soos voorheen deur die NGK gevolg nie. Die navorsing konkludeer dat die NGK se tradisionele sendingmodel die RCZ se identiteit en benadering tot sendingwerk integraal beinvloed het. Daarom is die geskiedenis van die RCZ en die werk en invloed van die NGK op die RCZ eers ontleed. Die navorser wil die RCZ oortuig om haar eie identiteit missionaal te herontdek om sodoende in haar uitreik na ander kulture interkultureel te kan werk. In die proses wil die RCZ nie proseliete van die Tonga mense maak nie maar hulle bemagtig om self in die lig van die evangelie hulle kultuur te transformeer.
3
Musoni, Phillip. "Inculturated African spiritual elements in the Johane Masowe weChishanu yeNyenyedzi church in Zimbabwe." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/61196.
Full textAbstract:
This study is in the domain of Church History under a sub theme 'Africanisation of Christianity'. Though Africanisation of Christianity is not a modern-day topic in Church History, this study posits that the theme should continue enjoying attention. The reason to this proposal is that it seems there is again a problem today on how African Indigenous Churches (AICs) interface with local traditional spiritualities in communities in which they are planted. Thus, this current study deals with the blurred interface and religious boundaries between African spiritual elements of faith and traditional Christian spiritual elements of faith as depicted in the Johane Masowe weChishanu inotungamirirwa neNyenyedzi(led by the star) (JMCN) Church in Zimbabwe. The hypothesis of this study is that the traditional African spiritual elements of faith dominate in JMCN Church spirituality at the expense of traditional Christian spiritual elements of faith. It is this unconscious adapting and adopting of 'incompatible' African spiritual elements of faith by the JMCN Church that has whet the appetite to examine whether JMCN Church spirituality can be described as a genuinely Christian. In an attempt to understand the genuineness of JMCN Church spirituality this study grouped AICs into two categories those that are said to be 'undisputed' and those that are said to be 'disputed'.While both groups have inculturated African spiritual elements of faith, this study argues that the undisputed AICs conscious selected compatible African spiritual elements of faith against the disputed AICs who unconsciously selected incompatible African spiritual elements of faith. Accordingly, the spirituality of JMCN (hereafter refered to as the Church) identified by its appropriation of African/Karanga spiritual elements of faith such as praying in traditional sacred caves and baptizing church members in traditional sacred pools and dams. Critical to JMCN spirituality is the removal of faith in Jesus Christ's death, resurrection and faith in the Bible as the word of God for human salvation. These are replaced by belief in the power of water spirits and tsanangudzo dzeMweya, (the sayings of the spirit) respectively.This study uses phenomenological and Theological Reflective approaches for data collection and interpreting of the data. Phenomenological method was used because it has two essential strands; the descriptive and the hermeneutical strands.The descriptive aspect helps the researcher to describe the spirituality of the Church accurately, while hermeneutic phenomenological and Theological Reflective approaches give the researcher the ability to evaluate the spirituality of the Church in light of Biblical Christian spirituality. The research study concludes that the JMCN church moved way from being a Christian Church to another syncretic religious denomination due to its inculturation of incompatible African spiritual elements of faith. This study argues that AICs have the liberty to inculturate local religious spiritual elements to shape their Church spiritualities, but the selection criteria should be carefully chosen to avoid obfuscating central Biblical spiritual elements of faith in the process.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2017.
Church History and Church Policy
PhD
Unrestricted
4
Leedy, Todd Holzgrefe. "The soil of salvation African agriculture and American methodism in colonial Zimbabwe, 1939-1962 /." Gainesville, FL, 2000. http://www.archive.org/details/soilofsalvation00leed.
Full text
5
Chitakure, John. "Domestic violence among the Shona of Zimbabwe the Roman Catholic Church's role in combating it /." Chicago, IL : Catholic Theological Union at Chicago, 2008. http://dx.doi.org/10.2986/tren.033-0835.
Full text
6
Mahamba, Barbara. "The Roman Catholic Church and girls' and women's education in South-Western Zimbabwe, 1887-1965." Thesis, Oxford Centre for Mission Studies, 2012. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.732956.
Full text
7
Mudavanhu, Jannet. "The attitude of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe to homosexuality : towards a socio-sexological theological investigation." Thesis, University of Birmingham, 2010. http://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/1223/.
Full textAbstract:
The issues raised by the phenomenon of homosexuality among the Shona are so complex in their nature. The widely held assumptions are that firstly, there is no place for gays and lesbian within the Shona culture and secondly, God Forbids. To justify these claims they point to prevalent socio-cultural as well as ecclesiastical intermediary systems that serve as authorities to enforce and monitor specific rules of conduct and moral goals. The study explores these conventional notions and attempts to establish the reality in which these moral actions are carried out. It marks the beginning of the work of demystification and deconstruction of various existing theories and theologies of sexuality. By scanning through the intricate socio-cultural and ecclesiastical structures the study seeks to identify the place of homosexuality among the Shona and discuss the paradoxes and contradictions presented by the Church‟s approach. This study is an analysis of the underlying issues in regards to homosexuality among the Shona. Such an analysis helps in identifying and developing contextual sexual theological approaches.
8
Mushayavanhu, David. "A historical analysis of the Presbyterian Church of Southern Africa’s socio-political and economical influence on Zimbabwe (1890-1990)." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/63031.
Full textAbstract:
The PCSA has its roots in the Reformed Tradition, is embedded in the reformed
culture, and, as such, it imparted reformed flavour into the community of service in
Zimbabwe. This thesis offers a historical analysis and reformed theological perspective
and inquiry relating to the issues of socio-politics and economics and the role of the
PCSA in Zimbabwe from 1890 to 1990. It raised pertinent questions on the relevance,
implications of, and work of, the PCSA; as to whether the celebration of the 100 year
of mission work in Zimbabwe was of any relevance to the country.
The study traced, the bearing of socio-political and economic influence as they
were imparted through reformed perspectives, and interpreted the teachings and
practices from a third world perspective. Four themes were used namely:
1. Exploring the Zimbabwean society before Presbyterianism;
2. Examining the missionary Presbyterianism's impact on politics during the period
under review;
3. Delineating the Presbyterian teachings on politics and economics and,
4. Evaluating its influence in reconstructing the Zimbabwean society.
A theoretical statement was also tested: “PCSA outlines a basis for constructive
involvement in socio-politics and economics of Zimbabwe.” Successes and failures to develop the socio-political and economic context of
Zimbabwe by PCSA were unearthed, presented and analysed. The study exposed the
historical significance of the PCSA’s influence in the developments on Zimbabwean
history and presents an historical account of the PCSA in Zimbabwe, a virgin ground
to trade on. The methodology employed mainly included oral history and the southern
approach to Church history with the intention to engage African perspectives. The study
utilized archival and oral data as primary sources, the interpretation form of contextual
theology, and the holistic framework for analyzing history. The study revealed that the PCSA had a special relationship with the colonial
government from the Pioneer Column era, which determined how the PCSA responded
and made demands on government until the country's independence in 1980. It also
uncovered how the PCSA moved from acceptance and collaboration to acceptance and
selective rejection of colonial policies, and how the PCSA contributed to the politics
and the role played by the mission-educated group in Zimbabwe. The study showed
how reformed theology enabled the PCSA to respond to the socio-political and
economic situation in Zimbabwe from 1890 to 1990. Extracting from this the study
further indicated what role the PCSA can play today as a reformed church in Zimbabwe.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2017.
Church History and Church Policy
PhD
Unrestricted
9
Welch, Pamela. "Church and settler in colonial Zimbabwe : a study in the history of the anglican diocese of Mashonaland/Southern Rhodesia, 1890-1925 /." Leiden : Brill, 2008. http://catalogue.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/cb41352475n.
Full text
10
Mukangara, Martha. "Evangelism as a local church outreach ministry to women and children affected with HIV and AIDS at Chikanga UMC in Zimbabwe, Africa." DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center, 2011. http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/334.
Full textAbstract:
Of the many challenges that Zimbabwe is facing, the HIV and AIDS pandemic ranks most threatening. This project draws attention and focuses on set-ups probing into the nature of the approaches to combat the pandemic. Given the issues surrounding the spread of the virus, including, for example, stigmatization/discrimination, sexuality, models of transmission, cultural beliefs and practices, trauma, health-care services, aid organizations as well as governance issues. People raise questions that cut across the societal belief terrains on the one hand, and scientific/technological advancements on the other. This project explores how to empower women and children with HIV and AIDS and proposes eight healthy practices and a year- program outline for in- depth understanding and assimilation of caring awareness designed for children in Sunday school, youth in Bible Study, and adults in women’s/men’s fellowship groups. This project comprises of four chapters and uses library research, including reviews of published studies, books and articles written from the perspective of women affected with HIV and AIDS and caring for AIDS patients. The first chapter introduces and delineates the nature and scope of the project. The second chapter provides the overview of the history of Zimbabwe, describes the current state of women and children and causes of HIV and AIDS, and transformation through evangelism model in relationship with Atlanta Interfaith AIDS Network program (AlAN). The third chapter highlights the positive and negative role of religion in Zimbabwe, definition of HIV and AIDS in the African tradition, and negative role of Christians in Zimbabwe. The fourth chapter identifies theology of reconstruction and concept of “Jesus the only way to salvation.” The fifth chapter addresses the ministry title, which is Pastoral Leadership, Theology, Healthy Congregations and Community, and liberating people from different problems. The sixth chapter offers the outline of the project. It involves the primary settin~ secondary setting, and producing a complete dissertation of the total project. The seventh chapter sums up the necessity of healthy congregation in the 21S1 century, and needs of transformation in the nature of HIV and AIDS. The eighth chapters are the bibliographical References.
11
Evertsson, Mattias. "Svenska kyrkans mission till Rhodesia/Zimbabwe 1928-1984 : En postkolonial analys av fem intervjuer med tidigare missionärer om självbild och förhållande till missionskontexten." Thesis, Uppsala universitet, Kyrko- och missionsstudier, 2018. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-359455.
Full text
12
Ndlovu, Chazani. "The sexual dilemma of widowhood within the HIV and AIDS pandemic : a pastoral approach within the Apostolic Faith Mission Church (A.F.M.) in Zimbabwe." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/79997.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MTh)--Stellenbosch University, 2013.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The current situation around widowhood sexuality is unspeakably painful. It has been established through literature review in this study that widows are the most neglected group in many societies. In Zimbabwe the unprecedented rise in the number of widows has been caused by the proliferation socio-economic, political climate coupled with the devastating effects of HIV and AIDS pandemic. HIV and AIDS pandemic has caused unimaginable suffering among all segments of society in Zimbabwe but impacts more on women and girls. HIV has increased the number of young widows in the country. This is the group which is still sexual active and they are in the church in quest to find meaning in God. The study also explored how the patriarchal society and religious norms control and manipulate women‟s sexuality. The church and the community views sex and sexuality issues as private matters. Hence, the dilemmas of widowhood sexuality are created by widows‟ failure to publicly and or share their challenges with church leadership. However, it was made clear during the study that the quest for sexual meaning becomes a challenge due to the complexities caused by HIV and AIDS pandemic. The challenge shown in this study was how to do theology and be a church where we accept that all theological formulations and institutional designs are influenced by their context. Therefore, could it be moral for the church to teach that widows embrace other sexual alternatives that are less risk to contract or transmit HIV; such as masturbation, use of sex toys and vibrators? Can these help widows reduce their sexual tension and evoke pleasure? If such or more suitable means are availed by the church how should widows be enriched to live meaningful in their faith in God? For the church to teach widows to say “no” to sexual intimacy outside marriage sound irresponsible and unrealistic to prevailing statistics of widows and their ages in church. However, the dilemma is for them to engage in sexual intimacy without creating other existential issues leading them to live in guilt- feelings and in the process lose their meaning in their God. Is the church willing to look closely to widowhood sexuality in this era of HIV and AIDS pandemic? The HIV and AIDS pandemic challenges the church to formulate policies and reframe pastoral theology in a way that is relevant to allow widows discover a God who can be compassionate and trusted to give meaning in suffering.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die huidige situasie in verband met weduweeskap en seksualiteit is onbeskryflik pynlik. Dit het duidelik geword uit die literatuuroorsig in hierdie studie dat weduwees die mees afgeskeepte groep in baie gemeenskappe is. In Zimbabwe is die ongehoorde styging in die aantal weduwees te wyte aan die groei in die slegte sosio-ekonomiese en politiese klimaat tesame met die verwoestende gevolge van die MIV en VIGS pandemie. Die MIV en VIGS pandemie het ondenkbare lyding veroorsaak in alle areas van die gemeenskap in Zimbabwe, maar dit het 'n groter invloed op vroue en jong meisies. MIV het veroorsaak dat die getal jong weduwees in hierdie land gestyg het. Dit is ook die groep wat steeds seksueel aktief is en hulle kom na die kerk in 'n soeke om betekenis te vind in God. Hierdie studie ondersoek ook hoe die patriargale gemeenskap en sy godsdienstige norme vroue se seksualiteitbeheer en manipuleer. Die kerk en die gemeenskap beskou seks en seksualiteit as 'n private aangeleentheid. Die gevolg is dat die dilemma van weduweeskap en seksualiteit geskep word deur die weduwee se versuim om haar uitdagings in die openbaar of by die kerkleiers bekend te maak. Dit het egter gedurende hierdie studie duidelik geraak dat die soeke na seksuele betekenis 'n groot uitdaging is as gevolg van die kompleksiteite wat veroorsaak word deur die MIV en VIGS pandemie. Die uitdaging wat met hierdie studie beklemtoon word, is hoe om teologie toe te pas en 'n kerk te wees wat aanvaar dat alle teologiese formulering en institusionele ontwerpe ook deur hul konteks beïnvloed word. Is dit derhalwe 'n morele probleem vir die kerk om vir weduwees aan te beveel om seksuele alternatiewe te ondersoek wat minder risiko's inhou vir die opdoen of oordra van MIV; soos masturbasie, die gebruik van seksspeelgoed en vibrators? Kan hierdie alternatiewe metodes weduwees help om hul seksuele spanning te verminder en seksuele genot te ervaar? Indien hierdie, of ander geskikte metodes, deur die kerk benut word, hoe kan weduwees verryk word deur betekenisvol tot hul geloof in God te leef? Vir die kerk om weduwees te leer om “nee” te sê vir seksuele intimiteit buite die huwelik klink onverantwoordelik en onrealisties as die heersende getal weduwees in die kerk en hul ouderdomme in ag geneem word. Die dilemma is egter vir hulle om seksuele intimiteit te beleef sonder om ander eksistensiële vraagstukke te skep, wat hulle dwing om saam te leef met skuldgevoelens en in die proses betekenis in hul God verloor. Is die kerk bereid om noukeurig te kyk na weduweeskap en seksualiteit in hierdie era van die MIV en VIGS pandemie? Die MIV en VIGS pandemie daag die kerk uit om beleide te formuleer en pastorale teologie te herdefinieer op 'n manier wat relevant is tot die ontdekking van 'n God wat medelydend en betroubaar is en wat betekenis kan gee aan lyding.
13
Chawarika, John. "The identity of Bernard Mzeki from the formative history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe (1890-2013) : retracing his life, martyrdom and influence." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/66141.
Full textAbstract:
The intention of this investigation was to retrace the life, martyrdom and influence of Bernard Mzeki’s identity from the formative history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe (1890 up to 2013). This study intended to establish the following objectives: tracing the history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe from its formative period leading up to the death of Bernard Mzeki; to establish the socio – anthropological, political and economic factors that might have contributed to the death of Mzeki; to establish the theological and biblical notion of martyrdom; to analyze the historical and religious life of Bernard Mzeki leading to his mysterious and controversial death, resultant commemoration and influence to the Anglican Church. And finally, the last objective was to give a critical examination of Mzeki’s martyrdom in light of contemporary African Christendom notion and the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe. In terms of research methodology of the study, there were many forms from which historical data was obtained. Primary and secondary sources were used to gather information. Critical analysis was done using a tool of probability value. Furthermore, historical, comparative, socio-anthropological, theological, phenomenological and political approaches were considered and utilized in order determine specific information in this research work. The theoretical framework of post-colonial theory was used as water that flowed along the study since Mzeki was a character lived in the late eighteen hundred. Bernard Mzeki was traced from his childhood life history in Mozambique, his calling, education in South Africa and his journey to Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) through Beira Mozambique to establish a new Anglican Diocese of Mashonaland with Bishop Knight Bruce as part of the formative history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe. Mzeki was murdered during the revolt on the 18th of June, 1896 due to his Faith as established by the Western historian who painted and claimed him a martyr. After the study, the researcher highlighted conclusively that the political, economic and socio – religious factors forwarded disqualified him to be named a martyr. According to the researcher, history was silent on the procedure that the Anglican Church took to confer the status of martyrdom on Bernard yet the church referred to him as a saint and martyr. This research work alluded to the fact that Anglican Church in Zimbabwe, CPCA and the Anglican Communion worldwide did not have a process or system put in place or a liturgy in its history that bestowed saintly/martyrdom status like the Roman Catholic Church did. Yet, Mzeki was being venerated as a martyr without no traceable criteria or public function sanctioned by the church to bestore martyrdom on him. And his name was in the lectionary of the Church to be commemorated in the Anglican Communion worldwide annually. This showed how significant and influential Mzeki was as part of the spirituality of the Anglican community in Zimbabwe, CPCA and the Anglican Communion when shrines, institutions and many more were named after him. The researcher raised Revd. Wagner and Mrs (Mbuya) Mandeya, Anglicans who were claimed to have died of their faith and there was a need to recognise them as contemporary martyrs of the twenty first century in the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe but there was no procedure to do so. Recommendations were forwarded, one of them being an advocacy for the Anglican Church to establish a way of conferring martyrdom.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2017.
Church History and Church Policy
PhD
Unrestricted
14
Nguluwe, Johane A. "The "puny David" of Shona and Ndebele cultures a force to reckon with in the confrontation of the "Goliath" of violence /." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN) Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN) Access this title online, 2006. http://www.tren.com.
Full text
15
Nhamo, Mercy. "The role of churches in tackling HIV stigma in eastern Zimbabwe." Thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science (University of London), 2011. http://etheses.lse.ac.uk/222/.
Full textAbstract:
Much has been written about the need to involve communities in efforts to reduce HIV stigma. However less is known about the psycho-social pathways between participation and stigma reduction or the most appropriate strategies for ensuring such participation. Drawing on Campbell’s social psychological conceptualisation of social capital and the ‘HIV competent community’, this study explores how community groups in eastern Zimbabwe, and in particular churches--the most established formal social network in the area--tackle HIV stigma, drawing on data collected between 2005 and 2009. The thesis explores four issues: the effect of participation in community groups on stigmatizing attitudes; the extent to which church groups perpetuate or reduce stigma; possible differences between the role played by the Protestant, Apostolic and Catholic churches in relation to stigma and the potential for using the ‘community conversations’ (CCs) approach to develop more effective responses to stigma amongst the three churches. The quantitative analysis from over 15,000 respondents used multivariable logistic regression modelling to explore relationships between participation and stigmatizing attitudes. Fewer of the individuals who participated in community groups than those who did not were found to report stigmatising attitudes towards people living with HIV (PLHIV). The qualitative research involved a total of 30 individual interviews and 24 CCs and explored how church groups respond to PLHIV. Participants discussed the strategies to combat HIV stigma and suggested that the church facilitated unhelpful attitudes, as well as helpful attitudes and actions. CCs workshops provided participants with opportunities to formulate a range of creative plans to tackle stigma in their communities. However over time it emerged that various obstacles stood in the way of putting these plans into action in their lives beyond the context of workshop discussions. l conclude that CCs have an important role to play in promoting reflection and action planning amongst participants. However, external constraints limit the extent to which people are able to turn this reflection and planning into action. To address these constraints I argue for the need to create sustainable bridges with external support agencies.
16
Joseph, Stacey-Leigh. "Consolidating democracy, building civil society : the South African Council of Churches in post-apartheid South Africa and its policy of critical solidarity with the state." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007957.
Full textAbstract:
The South African Council of Churches (SACC) played an extremely crucial role during the struggle against apartheid. The role of the SACC was first and foremost to provide a voice for the voiceless. It managed, among other tasks, to actively fill the void left by movements banned by the illegitimate apartheid government. As a result of its fight against the inequalities that existed in South Africa, its work adopted a political character. In the aftermath of post-apartheid South Africa, the SACC was left with the task of redefining its role within South African society and civil society, specifically. The euphoric sentiment in the mid-1990s was in part reflected in the SACC. However, the conclusion reached by the Council in 1995 was that it would also play a role of 'critical solidarity' which essentially meant that it would not shy away from attacking the government when the need arose. Since 1994, the South African government has implemented a number of policies that do not appear to be in the immediate interest of the majority of South African citizens atld have brought church and state into conflict. This thesis attempts to tackle three issues which are pertinent to the South African situation and which shed light on state-civil society interactions. These issues are HIV I Aids, the question of odious debt and the Zimbabwe crisis. By using both primary and secondary sources, the SACC's responses to government's handling of these matters will be compared with the responses of the South African Catholic Bishops Conference in order to determine their relationships with government. The conclusion of this investigation is that the SACC has in fact managed to maintain a position of critical solidarity. It has been faced with numerous challenges with regard to maintaining the fragile boundary of alliance with government on the one hand, and becoming anti-government on the other. However, by forming alliances with other civil society actors as well as fostering a relationship with government in order to facilitate mediation this dissertation argues that the SACC has become an essential member of South Africa's vibrant civil society.
17
Dodge, Anne Elizabeth. "A historical and analytical overview of North American Protestant Missions in Zimbabwe : 1890-1987." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1987. http://www.tren.com.
Full text
18
Dorman, Sara Rich. "Inclusion and exclusion : NGOs and politics in Zimbabwe." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2002. http://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:99281b24-8104-4699-8e4c-0cdc2a2c716e.
Full textAbstract:
The thesis explores the changing relations between the Zimbabwean state and local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) after independence. It focuses on debates over the role of NGOs in democratization in developing countries, using Zimbabwe as an example. The thesis argues that the study of democratization is best accomplished through detailed empirical case studies, relying on historical narratives and participant-observation research. Such research reinforces our understanding of democratization as a complex and dynamic process. The thesis proposes a framework for understanding state and society relations in Zimbabwe, emphasizing the ruling party’s use of coercive and consent-generating mechanisms to establish hegemony over the new nation. It examines the changing relationship between NGOs and the state after independence, when the ruling party’s efforts to include most groups within its nationalist coalition extend to NGOs. Case studies of NGO coalitions show how activist NGOs fail to mobilize others owing to the unwillingness of many NGOs to challenge the ruling party’s control over policy-making. The establishment of the National Constitutional Assembly by some NGOs, churches and trade unionists set the stage for an increasingly tense engagement between NGOs and the state after 1997. The constitutional debate opened up the public sphere in new ways. As the ruling party attempted to retain control over the political sphere and the constitutional debate, NGO politics became increasingly polarized. The emergence of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change, and the prominence of NGO activists within its leadership, led to further conflict. After losing the February 2000 constitutional referendum, the regime sanctioned violent attacks on white farmers, businesspeople, and NGOs. While the ruling party attempted to shore up its support through nationalist rhetoric and financial incentives, groups perceived to oppose the state were excluded and vilified.
19
Bjorknes, Guro Lauvland. "Coping strategies among female Zimbabwean refugees at the central Methodist church in Johannesburg : a conflict management perspective." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1424.
Full textAbstract:
This treatise represents an investigation into the coping strategies of female Zimbabwean refugees at the Central Methodist Church (CMC) in Johannesburg. The CMC in Johannesburg includes a non-profit organisation called Ray of Hope that has functioned as a provider of accommodation and emergency refuge at the church since 1997. A vast number of Zimbabweans are moving to adjacent countries as a consequence of the conflict in Zimbabwe and approximately 85 percent of the people that have sought refuge in the CMC in Johannesburg are Zimbabweans that have fled the economic and political conflict in Zimbabwe. Using an interviewing strategy of a sample of 20 female Zimbabwean refugees, conducted at the CMC, the researcher gathered data, indicating that they face various conflicts on a daily basis inside as well as outside the refugee community in the CMC in Johannesburg. An extensive literature review and researcher‟s own observations during hours spent in the refugee community have also contributed to the collection of data. The findings suggest that coping mechanisms have been adopted by the female refugees to deal with the conflicts. Analysis of data was guided by grounded theory approach which allowed key findings about coping mechanisms to surface which encouraged recommendations presented in the conclusion of the treatise.
20
Gukurume, Simbarashe. "New Pentecostal churches, politics and the everyday life of university students at the University of Zimbabwe." Doctoral thesis, University of Cape Town, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/29290.
Full textAbstract:
In the past 15 years, there has been a concerted ‘Pentecostalisation’ of university spaces in Africa. Despite enormous growth in Pentecostal Charismatic Church membership and activities on African university campuses, and its attendant implications for academic and everyday life, there is hardly any study that explores this phenomenon. Thus, little is known about the complex entanglements between religion, politics and the dynamics of the everyday within the university campus and how this mediates students’ subjectivities. This thesis examines the lived experiences and everyday lives of university students at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ). The thesis is based on the narratives of students drawn through a qualitative methodology and more particularly, through participant observation, semi-structured and in-depth interviews over 15 months. Findings in this study revealed that university students convert and sign-up for new Pentecostal Charismatic Churches (PCCs) because they were imagined as spaces through which young people could forge supportive economic and social networks. PCCs’ gospel of prosperity and ‘spiritual warfare’ technologies were also deeply attractive to students who were caught in the hopelessness and uncertainty wrought by the country’s protracted socio-economic and political crisis. In this context, PCCs cultivate a sense of hope and optimism. However, although new PCCs reconfigure young people’s orientation to the future, many PCC promises remain elusive. The entrance of PCCs onto this university campus has also lead to institutional conflict as new churches struggle against the entrenched historical privilege of mainline churches- and the political influence of their followers in university management. New PCCs on the UZ campus have also become heavily involved in student and national politics, which further complicates their relationship with the university and the state. This thesis demonstrate the extent to which faith permeates every aspect of university experience for those who subscribe to its Pentecostal forms. I argue in this thesis that these complex linkages between faith and university life are mediated by the wider politics of the country, including linkages between the state and the university.
21
Moyo, Sheila T. H. "Investigating the knowledge of servant leadership among Zimbabwean adolescents : a case of Parrow Apostolic Faith Mission Church." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/75268.
Full textAbstract:
This study sought to establish the extent of knowledge among church-going
Zimbabwean diaspora adolescents in Cape Town. A case study of the Apostolic
Faith Church (AFM) was carried out using its Parrow branch in Cape Town. The
research sought to establish several objectives that include knowledge of leadership
and its key principle among church-going Zimbabwean adolescents; the influences
of worldviews leadership praxis in Zimbabwean society; servant leadership
awareness by adolescencts in the church and society in Zimbabwe; leadership
teachings and practices adolescents are exposed to in churches. The research also
highlighted some literature by previous authors on church leadership.
A descriptive survey methodology, questionnaires were used as research
instruments in this case study. A sample size of 39 church attendees participated in
the study which revealed that church-going Zimbabwean diaspora adolescents were
knowledgeable of servant leadership model and its key principle of serving others.
The findings revealed that the Zimbabwean adolescents’ most influential role
models’ of leadership style was the Christian worldview; and that adolescencts were
aware of servant leadership praxis in the church and Zimbabwean society. The
results further indicated that adolescents were exposed to leadership teachings in
churches. Several recommendations were made to improve the consistency of
servant leadership approaches in churches and these include: the promotion of
intentional Christian servant leadership development programs; encouraging the
church to develop Christian servant leadership curriculum; and encourage the
church to confront gender related functions which have implications on the
knowledge and practice of the servant leadership model in Zimbabwe and Africa.
Finally, it is recommended that further researches be undertaken in order to
establish servant leadership in Zimbabwe especially the use of interpretive and
qualitative approaches to knowledge; investigate the knowledge of Zimbabwean
youths on specific servant leadership qualities; the development of Christian servant
leadership measuring instruments that would measure servant leadership qualities in leaders; examine the relationship between the cultivation of servant leadership
qualities and domestic functions; and empirical research on whether Zimbabwean
women possess more servant leadership qualities than men.Dissertation (MA)--University of Pretoria, 2019.
Science of Religion and Missiology
MA
Unrestricted
22
Shambare, Blessing. "Towards a Theology of Reconstruction for post-colonial Zimbabwe : a Missiological perspective." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/64231.
Full textAbstract:
The issue of reconstruction has appealed to many nations that have moved from significant transitional periods, be it economic, social, and or political. This has made the reconstruction theology, a relevant theology. This study is a result of realities unfolding in Zimbabwe which left many to ask what is missing in Zimbabwe in order to have a better society.
The study seeks to contribute to the reconstruction theology debate from a missiological perspective which is based on asking and answering the question, “what is the role of the Christian Church in reconstruction?” At the onset, the study seeks to assert the applicability of the Ezra - Nehemiah Motif in Zimbabwe. The research is motivated by the premise that the church ought to have the capacity to adequately formulate a public-social theology which meets the demands of society. It is on this basis that the research will grapple with the concerns for justice, aspects of difference in relationship to human life- human dignity, policies of democratisation and democracy, social development and societal peaceful coexistence.
The theology of reconstruction has been argued as a praxis and deed-oriented model of rebuilding. Whilst appreciating the Liberation Theology and its value to Zimbabwe, it could be argued further that the liberation has served the purpose and the need for a complementary theology; - Reconstruction Theology. However, if this assertion is to be upheld, questions may be raised as to whether Reconstruction Theology seeks to replace Liberation Theology. It is therefore through this research that it can be established whether there is a replacement of or a complement of liberation theology with reconstruction theology.
This research then aims to analyse the deplorable Zimbabwean, socio-economic and socio-political fibers that require reconstruction and transformation, to enable development of a better society in which human dignity is respected. Further to that, the research explores and reflects upon the theological and missiological models of reconstruction that could be considered in post-colonial Zimbabwe. It is in this research that some alternative cultural variables, which could help achieve national reconstruction are deconstructed in light of reconstruction of Zimbabwe. To achieve this research utilises African Renaissance as its theoretical framework and informed by social construction theory.
This research engages in the quantitative and qualitative research methods, supported by interviews and questionnaires. There is a plethora of produced in published and unpublished literature that enriched this thesis. Furthermore, the research utilised various methodological approaches which includes theological, sociological, and post-colonial. The research will then comprise nine chapters subtitled depending on the matters of concern.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2018.
Science of Religion and Missiology
PhD
Unrestricted
23
Fort, L. Gregg. "Training churches in the Hurungwe district of Zimbabwe to deal with demonized persons through a contextualized Biblical approach." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1995. http://www.tren.com.
Full text
24
Musasiwa, Sylvia C. "The emotional effects of early orphanhood and the church’s response in the context of Zimbabwe : a pastoral approach." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/64302.
Full textAbstract:
The SADC region has a high rate of children orphaned at an early age due to several factors which include the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The Zimbabwean orphan population is estimated at 1.6 million children (Ntakazo 2011:1). An increasing number of orphans in Zimbabwe are under the care of elderly grandparents, and some have to fend for themselves. The breakdown of the extended family support system has caused orphans to be especially vulnerable. Against this background this qualitative study examines, from a practical theological perspective, the emotional effects of having been orphaned at a very early age on people’s later lives. The context of the study is Zimbabwe. Through “the multiple case studies design” (Leedy & Ormrod 2010:137) data were collected by means of narrative interviewing from three categories of participants who had been orphaned before the age of five. Two participants of primary school age, two of secondary school age and two young adults on a tertiary education level were interviewed. The primary theoretical framework for processing and interpreting the data was derived from Erikson’s (1959) theory of psychosocial development, supplemented by Kohlberg’s theory of the stages of moral development (1981) and Fowler’s theory of the stages of faith (1981). This study, located in human developmental studies and practical theology, focuses on the emotional effects of early orphanhood at different stages of life and the role of the faith community in caring for such people. The study found that children orphaned before the age of five years experience intense psychological and emotional pain throughout the various developmental stages and that this pain is expressed in a variety of ways. The study concludes with an exploration of how Scripture and the faith community can be utilised as potential sources of healing.Dissertation (MA)--University of Pretoria, 2018.
Practical Theology
MA
Unrestricted
25
Mpofu, Sifiso. "The ‘Third Wave’ Religious Right Movement and the growth of Zimbabwean Christianity : faith or economic response?" Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/40279.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis is an historical analytical investigation and theological analysis
of the fundamental trends of the ‘Third Wave’ Religious Right Movement and
the growth of Zimbabwean Christianity. In an attempt to understand the
appealing and growth factors of this religious movement in the Zimbabwean
Church scene, the research focuses on the trends and behaviour of the
Third Wave Religious Right Movement in Zimbabwe and the critical aspect of
how this religious movement communicates the Christian faith to its
audience. A critical thrust of the study is the question of whether the
disciples of the charismatic movement are motivated by faith or economic
factors which may ultimately not be the authentic summons of the gospel of
Jesus Christ. The research addresses fears and suspicions of many
Christians who are caught up between faith and fear response to the
proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by the New Religious Right
Movements, particularly in Zimbabwe.
The hypothetical statement of this work is that there seems to be a subtle
reconstruction identity in the theology of the “Third Wave” Religious Right
Movement as is clearly manifested through the maneuverings of Christians
from the ‘traditional churches’ to these ‘newer charismatic churches in
trends which reflect the changing religious geography and the face of African
Christianity in general and Zimbabwean Christianity in particular. The
research explores the nature, impact and significance of the post – modern ‘Third Wave’ Religious Right Movement in Zimbabwean society in particular.
The identity and nature of the ‘Third Wave’ Religious Right Movement in its
historical perspective discussed by means of identifying and analyzing the
characteristics of this movement and its theological perspectives as well as
discussing the factors that promote the growth of the movement in the
context of Missio Dei (God’s Mission) and the society in general. Critical to
this type of Christianity are the images of power and prosperity which are
understood as signs of faith. The impact and effects of this type of faith
expression in the socio-political landscape is fully explored.
The primary methodology in this study is the historical critical method
complimented by oral historiography. Both primary and secondary sources
are utilized in this research in a holistic framework for analyzing the
historical trends as they unfold in the context of religious declarations and
transformations that are part of the phenomenon under investigation. The
study observes the translation model of evangelization in the unfolding
discourse of the ‘Third Wave’ Religious Right Movement.
The study ultimately reveals how people’s economic fears and hopes in the
midst of life’s challenges draw them toward religious movements which
promise to positively promote a glorious life with practical results being
realized “here and now”. This study has clearly exposed how religion,
specifically charismatic Christianity, is seen as a package of an abundant life in the context of humanity’s needs and challenges. There is a clear obsession, in the charismatic New Religious Right Movement, with wealth
and health as pedestals of salvation and a faithful Christian life.
Surprisingly, there is very little reference to moral and ethical issues from
the charismatic prophets who are the founders of these New Right
Movements. The research notes that the interests of these newer right
movements are in prosperity and health: “signs of being saved and blessed”.
Lack of economic success is blamed on demons which also causes poor
health hence the need to denounce the powers of Satan and engage on “the
heavenly gear”. Such teachings have conditioned the prospective converts to
seek after material benefits and values as critical aspects of the meaning of
salvation and the mission of Christ.
The study further reveals that the ‘Third Wave Religious Right Movement
promotes a subtle way of making disciples instead of the traditional way of
faith response to the gospel proclamation. But does this charismatic
religious life have any relevance to our human situation today? The seven
compelling chapters of this study have tackled this question and many
others, pointing the way to an authentic Christian mission that is alive and
relevant to the meaning of salvation in the context of orthodox Christianity.
This study concludes that the Church is a catalyst which carries the keys of
salvation to bring meaning and solutions to the varied human fears and
failures that characterise the temporary nature of human existence. But in
doing so; the Church must act in spirit of orthodox Christianity which is the
sine qua non of salvation.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2013.
gm2014
Church History and Church Policy
unrestricted
26
Williams, Richmond Paul Bowen. "Towards a strategic transcultural model of leadership that enhances Koinonia in urban Southern Africa." Thesis, Full-text available online as a .pdf file, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/23874.
Full textAbstract:
The research conducted was done on the basis of providing an initial platform or starting point for insight and discussion into what a strategic transcultural model of leadership might look like which was relevant to the early 21st Century Christian context in the cities of Southern Africa. A strategic transcultural leader is essentially a transformational leader who exhibits an ability beyond the norm in being able to cross socio-political barriers and thus inspiring the multicultural dynamic, while also honouring the individual cultures represented. In order to study strategic transcultural leadership models a strong leadership angle was taken, which employed investigating six leaders, three political and three Christian as to the structures, styles, values, transcultural abilities and Christian/political beliefs and/or philosophies they employed. The thesis poses the problem of urban unrest in the cities of Southern Africa. The problem of an influx into the cities, of the many different ethnicities and tribes from throughout Southern Africa and the pressures this has caused is briefly alluded to. This problem has been further exacerbated in South Africa by the arrival of many peoples from throughout Africa, south of the Sahara seeking their fortune without having to leave the African Subcontinent, and in Zimbabwe by the political policies of the Zimbabwean government, over land and in clearing away her unapproved urban high-density housing, and her informal business and white farming sectors of the economy. With these issues in mind, there is a need for strategic transcultural leadership to address these and other issues of unrest. The examples of Mandela and De Klerk as transformational leaders, inspire hope, that the vacuum of strategic transcultural leadership seen in Africa at large and specifically in relation to Southern Africa can be met, as is noted by the progress made in recent years in the arena of transformational leadership which the Group of eight and the United Nations and others allude to. While this is true, there are still problems in relation to the political decision-making within South African, as seen by Mbeki’s stance in the past on HIV-AIDS, and Zimbabwe’s woes. The stage is set from a missiological and historical perspective by looking at multicultural models of leadership in the Early Church with specific reference to Paul and the Antiochan model he used as a prototype. The Jerusalem Church is mentioned as a bi-cultural model, which has significant use outside of large urban environs. However it was the Pauline-Antiochan model that provided a platform, in the later use of a synthetic-semiotic model, to deduce or synthesis a transcultural model. Paul’s model of leadership was analysed specifically in relation to the five elements already noted (structures, styles, etc.) and is particularly useful as a model as Paul himself provides firstly an insight into a man of bi-cultural heritage yet someone who was empire-conscious. Paul was able to uphold both the cultural distinctive or uniqueness of both the Greek and Jew (noting Paul’s use of both Hebraic and Hellenistic styles of the diatribe for example) as well as the universal, in that he was empire-conscious which played into his Kingdom perspective. Secondly he provides a reasonable grounds for understanding that if the belief system of the individual is changed on one of its most fundamental levels – allegiance – then given time the macro-cultural identity of a nation, even empire can be significantly altered. He was able to do this primarily because the Graeco-Roman Empire had a common linguafranca in Greek, and the Christian community – as the followers of the Way became known as – had an ethos of reconciliation, enhancing the multicultural and one also of inclusivity (for example a worship style that encompasses both Jewish and local expressions) enhancing the particular. In declaring the One God of Israel and Jesus Christ – Messiah, as the only true Kyrios, Paul replaced the Emperor and the whole Greek pantheon of the Gods with the one true God and Father of us all, and his one and only Son.< /p> The three political leaders – Moshoeshoe, Smuts and Mandela – and the three Christian leaders – Mutendi, Cassidy and Tutu – are investigated in terms of the five elements (structures, styles, values etc.) that comprise the model of leadership. Each of these leaders in turn made a lasting contribution to national and/or tribal change. After looking at the six leadership models an initial conceptual framework for a multicultural model of leadership is outlined. However, in order to bring significant current postmodern/neo-African/tribal/multicultural paradigms of thought and the associated socio-political forces and philosophies of the day, to bear on the evolving model, these were specifically highlighted and brought into the process of synthesizing a model. Lastly once all these inputs are brought together in a tabulated framework, and the evolving multicultural model is screened against three known working scenarios, and further synthesized such that the refined model was then called a strategic transcultural model of leadership. Before this can be achieved however, various North American multicultural models posited were looked at in a literary review, which served to reinforce the understanding of the need to balance the universal and the particular aspects of culture. In refining a strategic transcultural model, the thesis next attempted to address the problem of developing a national macro-cultural identity. A strict delineation in a postmodern era between Church and State was considered to be not only unnecessary but a modern myth, also noting that the State mirrors the Church in many of the problems of community and identity. Thus the meso-level of the Church provided key insights into the macro-level of the State. An argument all along was posed for not just orchestrating a macro-culture based on multiculturalism, nor in just upholding the micro-cultural individual identities at the expense of participation in a national framework and beyond this the global village, but an argument was made for a both/and scenario. In doing this the thesis sought to address both the macro-cultural and individual cultural identities at every level and in every element of the model of leadership. The plausibility of the argument for today was based on the prevalence of a language of choice – in most cases English – and an ethos of reconciliation and inclusivity for which Madiba and Tutu among others have set the standard. A final picture of a community based on both was posited for reflection, a picture that John paints where the great heavenly host (mirroring the macro-level of the Kingdom) is contrasted with the micro-level of a people made up “from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Rev 5:9).Thesis (PhD (Science of Religion and Missiology))--University of Pretoria, 2007.
Science of Religion and Missiology
PhD
Unrestricted
27
Munhuweyi, Phillip Nyeberah. "Entrepreneurship and freedom : a social theological reflection on the church and small business in Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1904.
Full textAbstract:
This study concerns the contribution that the church can make to small businesses in Zimbabwe through the development of an appropriate holistic training programme for entrepreneurs. Through a case study on the situation in Masvingo undertaken through participant observation and interviews with various role players, this thesis first identifies the fundamental reasons that lead to the lack of viability of the small businesses in Zimbabwe. To develop a response for the church, this study adopts a three pronged approach. Firstly, the theological basis for freedom is laid through a reading of four biblical stories: the creation story, the Exodus story, the prophets' story and the Messianic story. It is argued that these stories can influence and challenge the church to be meaningfully engaged in a freedom centred development process that can foster the freedoms and values that small businesses need in order to grow and flourish. Secondly, Amartya Sen's theory of freedom as development was engaged in a bid to find an interface between economic and development theory and the theological vision of freedom for socio-economic freedom in Zimbabwe. Thirdly, having established a linkage between a theoretical and a theological essence for freedom the research then examined the role the church can play in enhancing the freedoms for the operators of small businesses in Zimbabwe. The study suggests a freedom-centred entrepreneurial training model that is based on Paulo Freire's dialogical education model. A formal proposal of the key elements of such a training programme is explored. The study recognises that the socio-economic situation in Zimbabwe continues to deteriorate so rapidly that all research seems out of date; but it has proceeded with the hope that when the economic situation improves this study would become an important tool through which the church can begin to contribute to development and the revival of small businesses in Zimbabwe.Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.
28
Phiri, Stephen. "A critique of the relationship between the Catholic Church and the state in Zimbabwe : towards an empathetic dialogical method." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2863.
Full textAbstract:
This study serves to evaluate the effectiveness of the Catholic Church‟s prophetic voice in the post-independence Zimbabwe. It also serves to show that being prophetic is not enough unless this prophesy engages with the other. This study proposes a dialogical prophetic voice, which engages with the one to whom it is challenging. For the prophetic voice to be dialogical it has to be empathetic and being empathetic in this case points to the ability to understand the other party‟s perspective. Understanding in this context does not mean to sympathise or compromise but to be able to see through the eyes of the other party in dialogue in a bid to constructively challenge or criticize the other. This study suggests an Empathetic Dialogical method as central and foundational to an effective dialogical process. It also proposes Bonhoeffer‟s Church-State model as a conducive ground for an Empathetic dialogue.
The study ultimately wants to show that the ineffectiveness of the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe to dialogue with the State is due to its predominately non-empathetic dialogical model. It (the study) specifically points to two trajectories: the first trajectory points to the Catholic Church‟s unwillingness to consult the State, while it has a tendency to prescribe for the State. The second trajectory lies in the failure of the Zimbabwean Catholic Church to speak with one voice, which consequently led it to compromise with the State.
This study is informed by the suffering Zimbabwean people at the hands of a ruthless regime and a Church whose prophetic voice is ineffective.Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2010.
29
Gondongwe, Kennedy. "African ministers and the emergence of resistance to colonial domination : the development of indigenous clergy in the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Zimbabwe from 1891 to 1980." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/8022.
Full textAbstract:
This study is a critical assessment of the degree of political consciousness of the Zimbabwean Wesleyan Methodist indigenous ministers from 1891 to 1980. It documents the nature of the domination that the Wesleyan Methodist indigenous ministers experienced. It also documents and analyses how the indigenous ministers responded to the domination. The study relies upon primary documents from the National Archives of Zimbabwe, the Methodist Connexional Archives and other private archives. Information found in these archives includes minutes of synods, minutes of quarterly meetings, minutes of conferences, ministers' personal files and many other documents. The thesis also depends on interviews and other secondary material relevant to the study.
Additionally, this thesis explores the training of the indigenous ministers. It emerges that the theological training of the indigenous ministers brought about some form of political radicalism. This was strengthened by the fact that the stipends and working conditions were not attractive. This thesis argues that the indigenous ministers had no clear position with regard to the significance of African culture. They oscillated between its rejection and acceptance. When they were politically inspired they rejected African culture to embrace it when it seemed expedient to do. It is further observed that the indigenous ministers contributed immensely to the liberation struggle.
Using, Of Revelation and Revolution, Peasant Consciousness, Domination and the Arts of Resistance and Savage Systems as theoretical frameworks, this thesis concludes that the level of political consciousness of the indigenous ministers increased phenomenally in the second half of the 20th century. This was because of a number of reasons including the role played by mission churches in education, the impact of the Second World War, and adherence to certain constructions of John Wesley particularly those with liberation emphasis and many more. It also emerges that, although the political consciousness of the indigenous clergy was high, quite a number of them oscillated between two poles of patriotism and expediency. Put differently, the indigenous clergy were sometimes ambivalent in terms of what they adhered to. This was particularly so in cases to do with African culture.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2011.
30
Hess, Shena Bridgid. "White and African: the dilemma of identity." Diss., 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/588.
Full textAbstract:
This study looks at the construction of white identity within postcolonial conflict in Zimbabwe. Is it possible to be white and African? And how will the white African look when his identity as 'privileged' is stripped from his/her? This study also challenges the church to respond to the endemic violence by finding ways of bringing hope and healing. The role that trauma plays in our ongoing narratives is explored along with ways to exit these cycles without re-traumatizing large sectors of the community who are considered 'outsiders'. It ends with questioning the usefulness of 'white' and 'race', except as a political construction that benefits those in power to be able to tap into past historic pain and injustice.Philosophy, Practical & Systematic Theology
M. Th. (Practical Theology (Pastoral Therapy))
31
Hlatywayo, Jairos D. "On being the 'salt of the earth' : a case study of the United Church of Christ as a community asset in Chipinge, Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/939.
Full textAbstract:
The research investigates whether it is appropriate, practically and theologically, to think of
the United Church of Christ in Chipinge, Zimbabwe as a community as set in the struggle
against poverty. A number of key questions were asked and explored concerning the context
of poverty in Chipinge, the theological grounds for understanding itself as a community asset
in the struggle against poverty in Chipinge, and whether the 'asset portfolio' can actually
contribute to the eradication of poverty.
The thesis is rooted in a contemporary development approach known as Asset Based
Community Development which argues that sustainable community life is built on what
exists in a community rather than what is lacking. The theory and its relevance are explored
in the thesis. Further, drawing on contemporary thinking about missiology and ecclesiology,
the thesis argues whether the Church should understand itself as a 'community asset'. This
leads to the use of the metaphor taken from Matthew 5: 13, where the people of God are
called to be ' the salt of the earth' who would draw others together into a living relationship
with God. It is argued that being the salt of the earth requires the Church to take faith into
action through utilizing the God given gifts which are available in the Church and Chipinge
community.
Through a key informant survey of the pastors from seventeen UCC Churches in Chipinge.
the thesis demonstrates that the United Church of Christ (UCC) in Chipinge, Zimbabwe, has
a range of assets, or what we could call an "asset portfolio" which can and should contribute
to the struggle against poverty in the region.Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.
32
Dube, Aleta. "The post conciliar contribution of pastoral training centres to evangelization in Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2875.
Full textAbstract:
This study in Contextual Missiology has been motivated by seeming inadequacies and hazy pictures of the training of lay people for evangelization in Zimbabwe. It therefore seeks to identify ways in which Pastoral Training Centres can train lay leaders to animate local communities, take up lay ministries satisfactorily and move the agenda of the local Church forward. Ways were sought through engaging in a critical hermeneutical method of understanding and interpreting praxis, so that the meeting of praxis with faith leads to new practice in an on-going hermeneutical spiral. The task involved is to listen to those who evangelise and those evangelised to get a deeper understanding of the mission of the Church. This is a method employed by S Bate and F. J. Verstraelen. The research findings were that Pastoral Training Centres were established and started training laypeople over thirty years ago and yet the training seems inadequate and unsatisfactory. People from an African background in Zimbabwe have been converted to Christianity over a century ago and yet they seem to adhere to their traditional religious rituals along side the Christian belief. The Catholic Church in Zimbabwe has accepted small Christian communities as the locus of evangelization and yet on the ground what are operational are prayer groups. Lay leaders have taken up and exercise lay ministries and yet some communities seem not satisfied with the quality of services rendered by some of them. There is collaboration in the parishes between parish priests and laypeople especially in the work done by parish councils and lay associations and yet there seems to be some reluctance in giving laypeople key-decision making posts in the Church. The findings revealed a gap between the lived experiences of people and the critical reflections on those experiences. Narrative Theology was adopted to try to bridge the gap. It was within Narrative Theology that a theological model of training laypeople was developed. It is a proposal to start all pastoral situations, which include, lay leader training courses, seminars, discussions, homilies, catechetical instructions and Bible sharing, from either events experienced, proverbs, sayings or stories.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2004.
33
Mathe, Samson Madonko. "The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe's input in religious education:." Diss., 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/18161.
Full text
34
Masengwe, Gift. "The Church of Christ in Zimbabwe Identity- and Mission-Continuity (in Diversity)." Thesis, 2020. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/27661.
Full textAbstract:
The study of the Church of Christ’s ‘Identity- and Mission-Continuity’ in the Zimbabwean context explores how the Christian faith should be interpreted and contextualised in Africa. The Church of Christ in Zimbabe (COCZ) is a Christian movement claiming to be representative of the ethos of the Church that was founded by Jesus Christ on the day of Pentcost. The thesis raises critical questions of Christian identity and transformation in missionary founded churches like the COCZ in an attempt to contribute towards a locally based study of the Church. Consciousness to being a Church founded by Jesus Christ has implications for Christian unity (oneness) and ecumenism in the COCZ, and its wider Christian networks1. Use of its theological tenets, which are indeed congruent with its projected identity, to explore its history when it came to Zimbabwe in relationship to its founding charism helped because of scarcity of literature on the history of Christian denominations in Zimbabwe.
This thesis has followed four objectives that are related to the four stages of experiences by the Church Jesus Christ founded, namely, the (1) early Church, (2) reformation evangelism, (3) missionary enterprise and, (4) contemporary (African) expressions of the faith. This study has investigated the origin and reasons for the formation of the Church in the midst of others; and why its missionaries chose Zimbabwe where there were other denominations. Local experiences of the Church after the departure of white missionaries motivated this study with questions on how the process of inculturating the gospel in the COCZ raised, especially the tension between continuity and discontinuity, linking and delinking, similarity and dissimilarity as well as diversity and diference. Creative synthesis on what Jesus intended; what missionaries brought; and what the God of history is doing in the contemporary life and efforts of the Church were implied and/or explicated.
Using a two-pronged approach to the study, the thesis has, first, unearthed (primary) documents like minutes from church board meetings by Europeans (with misionary thinking that developed from these origins), to contextual (secondary) documents (on how local theologians in the context have engaged the different Christian doctrines in the Zimbabwean context). Secondly, an empirical method was used to interview and distribute questionnaires to a number of individuals, inclusive of those who were in the COCZ leadership and ordinary members. Data collection tools were semi-structured, giving respondents freedom to express themselves and/or their views on what the COCZ was doing and what they believe must be done. Data from interviews and questionnaires were correlated with views expressed in the written sources. The data was interpreted heuristically, in order to give light to new knowledge that was being formed in the process. As an interpretive tool, hermeneutics (the phenomenological approach using Atlas.ti 8 (SPSS, Nvivo 8) - for verbatim transcription) was made key in looking into the context, culture and religion of the COCZ.
The thesis attempted to create a dialogue by relating identity, communal ontology and epistemology to the empirical study findings, literature and the methodology. Ecology and gender were some of the indispensable aspects of theology, crucial for human survival, harmony and peace that were discussed because they were neglected in the COCZ. The thesis also revisted differences and similitudes found in the gospel in relationship to the intended and unintended
1 Unity and oneness expressed in John 17 [“Et Unum Sint” – That they may be one], emphasise the sociality of the Godhood through the doctrine of perichoresis, which is unity of the Godhead in the economy (our) of salvation.
xiii
cultural contributions of the Ndebele and Shona so far, with the purpose of repositioning the COCZ within its own transformative framework. This helps the Church with a strategy of how to model its theology in an African context and how to learn from its past with the view to transform itself for the 21st century Zimbabwe.
The study is not exhaustive on the nature, history and mission of the COCZ, and many avenues like hermeneutics, church polity, public theology, conflict studies and church doctrine can be carried out using the COCZ as a case study. In all, the study has laid a foundation for the contextualization, evangelization, inculturation and incarnation of the gospel of Jesus Christ through the COCZ in a postmodernist society.Philosophy, Practical and Systematic Theology
35
Manyonganise, Molly. "The Church, national healing and reconciliation in Zimbabwe : a womanist perspective on Churches in Manicaland (CiM)." Thesis, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/51431.
Full textAbstract:
Given that women are the major victims of any conflict, their lived experiences should be the starting point of any post-reconstruction process. Proceeding from this premise, this study looked at the role of the church in national healing and reconciliation in Zimbabwe from a gendered perspective focusing specifically on Churches in Manicaland (CiM), a forum of churches operating in Manicaland province. While academic scholars have written about the activities of the church and church organisations in Zimbabwe (in the national healing and reconciliation process), there have been limited attempts at examining the intersections of gender and post-reconstruction processes such as national healing and reconciliation especially in as far as the church’s participation in the process is concerned. This study comes in to fill this gap in the existing scholarly literature by proposing a new model for national healing and reconciliation on which the church can lean. The aim of this study is to provide a womanist perspective to CiM’s activities in the national healing and reconciliation process in Zimbabwe by finding out if the Forum prioritises women’s experiences of political violence. The study is qualitative in nature and it utilised documents and interviews as tools for data collection from CiM officials. Input from women survivors of political violence as well as some men and women who witnessed political violence in the communities in Mutare Urban and Mutare Rural provided the raw data from which an analysis was drawn. The study found out that though CiM has been active in trying to bring healing and reconciliation to communities in Manicaland, it has not focused on women’s experiences of political violence as requiring special attention. From the responses of study participants, the study probed the possible reasons behind this neglect. Drawing from the experiences of women in Manicaland of political violence, the study proposed the adoption of a womanist model for national healing and reconciliation. The study argued that from this model, the church in Zimbabwe can come up with an all-inclusive African Womanist Theology of national healing and reconciliation, a theology which pays particular attention to how women experience conflict.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2016.
Biblical and Religious Studies
PhD
Unrestricted
36
Ndlovu, Sikhumbuzo. "Challenges in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Zimbabwe in intergrating and evangelising minority groups after independence." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/13813.
Full textAbstract:
The integration and evangelisation of the minority groups in Zimbabwe in general,
and in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in particular poses a challenge. The
situation has become more acute after independence. Evidently, the socio-political
atmosphere in Zimbabwe has not ameliorated the condition. Certainly, challenges
stem from issues concerning racial prejudice, finances, cultural differences, as well as
worship styles. While the efforts of the current multicultural ministries are
appreciated, the results of the survey indicate that a lot still needs to be done. First, the
organizational structure of the ministry needs to be reviewed. Such a review is
relevant in order to check and regulate the balance and distribution of power, control
and authority. Second, the need for the recruitment of leaders from within the
minority groups themselves especially from the white population was clearly
articulated. Third, it may be necessary to approach the whole issue from a social
standpoint, so as to formulate theological strategies. Apparently, the social distance is
more pronounced than the theological one. In addition, integration and evangelisation
specifically among the Coloured population is further compounded by the split, which
occurred in the early 1990s. Most of the Sabbath-Keeping Adventists from this group
anticipate challenges if they would opt to merge with the national Conference. Some
of the major barriers to such a step revolve around issues of properties, finances, and
positions as well as the general upkeep of the workers. Unless, these apprehensions
are clarified and the fears are allayed, integration seems enigmatic. Ecclesiological
unity and theological unity in diversity seem to be eclipsed by racial solidarity and
socio-economic and political expediency. Similarly, the reconciliation among the
black majority itself, also needs a close and deliberate attention from both the church
and society in Zimbabwe. For that reason, tribalism, racism, ethnicity, nepotism and
any other discrimination should not be tolerated, first and foremost by the church and
second, by all peace loving Zimbabweans (Gal 3:28). The reconstruction of the
cultural landscape in Zimbabwe demands an affirmation of the common destiny for
all Zimbabweans.Christian Spirituality, Church History & Missiology
D. Th. (Missiology)
37
Hove, Rabson. "A critical analysis of the HIV and AIDS policy document of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ)." Thesis, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/10511.
Full textAbstract:
Despite efforts by the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs) and churches, the HIV epidemic remains one of the major challenges in Zimbabwe. Its impact cuts across all sectors of life and society. The context of HIV in Zimbabwe reflects that the economic and political decisions and policies have contributed to the spread of HIV. The spread of HIV is also exacerbated by some socio-cultural practices in that context. Among these socio-cultural factors are marriage practices, stigma and discrimination.
This study is an investigation of the response of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ) to HIV and AIDS. This is done through analysis of the ELCZ HIV and AIDS policy document (ELCZHAP). The ELCZ HIV and AIDS policy document is analysed by using the “HIV competent framework” (Parry 2008:20) in an attempt to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the response to the HIV epidemic by the ELCZ. From this analysis the policy document shows that the ELCZ has some competence but it needs to be strengthened in order to address socio-cultural and political factors, as well as improve engagement with government policies. The study reveals that the ELCZ lacks a comprehensive theological discourse in responding to HIV. Through this investigation, recommendations are made in order to strengthen the ELCZ HIV and AIDS policy document and indicate areas needing further research.Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2013.
38
Masengwe, Gift. "The church's role in social healing and reconciliation in Zimbabwe : an analysis of reconciliation in the National Vision Discussion Document of the churches of Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/207.
Full textAbstract:
The study focuses on the National Vision Discussion Document (NVDD) from Zimbabwe, and
is a reflection of the need for, and the churches’ approach to, reconciliation in Zimbabwe. The
analysis of the social context in which the NVDD was written sets the tone for this study, and
provides the basis for discussing and constructing a deeper theology of reconciliation in
Zimbabwe. Two criticisms of the NVDD are advanced, namely, the lack for a critical social
analysis, and a weak theological reflection.
In responding to the first criticism, the study undertakes a detailed analysis of three key areas
of enmity, namely, the ethnic conflicts between the Shona and Ndebele, the racial conflicts
between white and black centered on land, and the political conflicts between ZANU-PF and
civil society and the MDC. In responding to the second criticisms, the theology is deepened
through an examination of Miroslav Volf’s, Exclusion and Embrace, John de Gruchy’s,
Reconciliation: Restoring Justice, the Kairos Document and the Belhar Confession.
Reconciliation was seen to lie at the edge of two parallel truths; justice and forgiveness; truth
and reconciliation.
In conclusion, the study established the basis for a deeper theology of reconciliation, by
focusing on three key areas: social dynamics, theological reflection, and practical and logistical
steps to national reconciliation. For a deeper theology of reconciliation, seven levels for
reconciliation were suggested: individual, social, cultural, institutional, political, theological
and religious. From these seven levels, two strategies for the practice of reconciliation were
suggested: ecumenical and strategic partnerships.
It should be noted that events in Zimbabwe continue to progress at a rapid rate and the social
context changes from week to week. However, these current events suggest that the study
remains relevant for national reconciliation and theological praxis because of the abiding issues
of conflict that cry out for reconciliation.Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2008.
39
Mushayavanhu, David. "The spiritual weakness of Western Missionary Founded Churches as the cause of the rise of Africa Independent Churches in Zimbabwe with special reference to theUniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa." Diss., 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/37314.
Full textAbstract:
This dissertation is an attempt to analyse and investigate ways of responding to the poor UPCSA missional approach to Zimbabwean society. The desire to write this dissertation was born out of the experience of working for the past six years as an ordained minister of this denomination in the Presbytery of Zimbabwe, there are six congregations with the right to call a minister, thirty grant receiving and fifteen preaching stations in the whole country which is serviced by thirteen ministers, including probationers. The UPCSA has a total of four thousand five hundred and ninety seven members not counting Sunday school children. The dissertation seeks to survey the history of how the people in the Presbytery of Zimbabwe came to be some of fewer memberships as compared to other denominations in the country. It will focus on colonial and post –colonial events, which led to evangelizing the nation.
The spiritual weakness which the people of Presbytery of Zimbabwe (POZ) experience is a product of the evangelism mode of missional approach to society and the failure to contextualize the Good-News. This dissertation considers the possibility of how to correct this state of affairs.
Spiritually weak people have been destroyed precisely because they have reduced them to products. How to understand the context and achieve that change is the central issue which the writer addresses in this dissertation.Dissertation (MA Theol)--University of Pretoria, 2013.
gm2014
Church History and Church Policy
unrestricted
40
Nyandoro, Rudolf. "The pastoral role of the sacrament of confession : a life narrative study in the Masvingo Diocese in Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/18866.
Full textAbstract:
The laxity and continuous apathy among some members of the Catholic Church of the
Masvingo Diocese in Zimbabwe towards the Sacrament of Confession prompted this study.
The claim of Zvaiwa (2009) that confession is disappearing while psychology is being used
more, as reflected in the title of his article ―Confession out, psychology in‖, motivated this
research. The objective of the study was therefore, to explore the practical therapeutic value
of the Sacrament of Confession among members of the Catholic Church in Masvingo
Diocese in Zimbabwe. A theoretical and qualitative life narrative study was done from within
a practical pastoral therapeutic perspective of practical theology. The sample of the empirical
study consisted of 30 priests and laypeople in the five deaneries. A lifeline and semistructured
interview instrument was used. A key finding of the study was that the Sacrament
of Confession was not threatened by psychological counselling or psychotherapy. Another
significant finding was that the Catholic Diocese of Masvingo was experiencing a
devaluation of the church‘s pastoral confessional practice among its priests and laypeople.
The study confirmed that the Sacrament of Confession has therapeutic value and spiritual
meaning in the Church. The Sacrament of Confession and psychological counselling or
psychotherapy were found to collaborate as therapeutic disciplines in pastoral therapy. A new
model of therapeutic counselling that embraces spiritual direction through psychological
counselling and reconciliation is proposed. It is rooted in cultural value; spirituality; private
confession followed by prayer and absolution; and change in existential life, to enhance the
pastoral role of the Sacrament of Confession in the Diocese of Masvingo, Zimbabwe. This
model has interdisciplinary elements borrowed from medical, pastoral, psychological and
social research fields. If adopted in the Diocese it would decrease the spiritual indifference
amongst the parishioners and prevent them from defecting to other denominations.Practical Theology
D. Th. (Practical Theology with specialisation in Pastoral Therapy)
41
Amadi, Anthony. "Inculturating the eucharist in the Catholic diocese of Mutare, Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/2365.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of this research is to explore possible ways of making the Eucharistic celebration more meaningful to Catholics in Mutare diocese, Zimbabwe. The reason for this concern is that the Eucharist is the `source and summit' of the Christian life. Since inculturation is a possible means of achieving this aim of a meaningful celebration, it was found necessary in this study to examine how the Eucharist has been taught and inculturated in the Catholic Church over the years. From this It was discovered that inculturation was absent in the writings and catechesis of early Church authors and Fathers during the periods reviewed. Although an observation was made that it was indirectly implied in the Eucharistic prayers of the early Christians, it was only after a new `understanding of culture' emerged, following Vatican II, that permission was given by Rome to use local languages at Eucharistic celebrations.
In the course of this study, efforts were made to determine the elements that constitute Eucharistic inculturation in Mutare diocese. These include: symbolic gestures, local languages, proverbs, enthronement, local staple food, invocation of ancestors, and others. In an empirical study to find out the extent of inculturation that has taken place in Mutare diocese, questionnaires were sent to sixteen out of twenty-four parishes in the diocese. Oral interviews were also conducted for this purpose. After analyzing the responses from respondents and those interviewed, it was discovered that some areas of inculturation have been realized, though not fully. Two outstanding areas which have not yet been realized were found to be the use of local staple food and the invocation of ancestors. The conclusion was that inculturation is not fully implemented in Mutare diocese and this impacts negatively on the celebration of the Eucharist. Eucharistic inculturation is an achievable goal in Mutare diocese, however, provided there is intensive catechesis which takes into account Shona-rich cultural values, aided by active involvement of small Christian Communities and the support of the hierarchy.Systematic Theology and Theological Ethics
M. Th. (Systematic Theology)
42
Madhiba, Simon. "Methodism and public life in Zimbabwe : an analysis of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Zimbabwe's impact on politics from 1891-1980." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/30207.
Full textAbstract:
This study is a historical analytical investigation and theological interpretation of Wesleyan Methodists' political teaching and practice in Zimbabwe from 1891 to 1980. In an attempt to come up with an informed interpretation of the political teaching and activities, the study traced Wesleyan Methodist political praxis John Wesley, the founder of Methodism and interpreted his teaching and practice from a third world perspective. That perspective was used as a basis for evaluating the contextualisation of his teaching by Wesleyan Methodists in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean Wesleyan Methodists' political teaching and practice during the colonial era were explored using four themes: politics of land, race relationships, Federation and war. Two hypothetical statements were tested in this study: Wesleyan Methodism outlines a framework for constructive participation in politics, and the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Zimbabwe provided and supported positions of political leadership in Zimbabwe. The objectives of this study are to: unveil successes and failures of Wesleyan Methodists in Zimbabwean political arena, expose the historical significance of Wesleyan Methodist influence in politics for Zimbabwean history and present a historical account of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Zimbabwe. The methodology preferred in this study included oral history and a combination of the ecumenical and southern approaches to Church history. The study utilised archival and oral data as primary sources, the translation model of contextual theology, holistic framework for analysing history, the principle of the overriding right and the conflict transformation model as part of the methodology. Through the use of the translation model of contextual theology, the study revealed how John Wesley used principles from the Christian message and Church tradition in addressing his political context. The study exposed that John Wesley was obsessed with accountability to God and constituency, respect for every person, respect for political structures as well as authorities and relationships among people as fundamental pillars in political activities. He based these on his understanding of God's free grace, people's liberty to accept or reject that grace and the validity of popular religious expression. The study revealed that Wesleyan Methodists in Zimbabwe had a special relationship with the colonial government due to an invitation by Cecil John Rhodes for the church to participate in the Pioneer Column. The relationship determined how retrogressive or progressive ministers responded to government requirements and made demands on government until the country's independence in 1980. The study also exposed how retrogressive Wesleyan Methodists moved from acceptance and collaboration to acceptance and selective rejection of colonial policies and how both retrogressive and progressive ministers employed the concept of non-contestation of participation in armed conflict and throwing one’s lot on the expected side. It also showed how progressive ministers contributed to the political emancipation of Africans and the role played by the mission-educated elite in Zimbabwe. The study ended with pointing out that Zimbabwean Wesleyan Methodist political teaching and practice had very bright future prospects at the independence of the country in 1980.Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2011.
Church History and Church Policy
Unrestricted
43
Mazibisa, Robson Dube. "Causes and implications of apostasy in the West Zimbabwe conference of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1998-2008." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/10556.
Full textAbstract:
This study seeks to investigate the causes and implications of apostasy in the West
Zimbabwe Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church from 1998 to 2008. The
research was undertaken due to the realisation that apostasy has reached a point of
concern to both members and local church leadership. The researcher also noted with
concern that not much if any has been done on the causes and implications of apostasy
since the introduction of the Church in Zimbabwe over one hundred years ago and the
organisation of the West Zimbabwe Conference about forty years ago.
The research was motivated by these concerns coupled with the increasing number of
apostasy which continuously reflect negatively on the church and may subsequently limit
the church’s ability to evangelize the communities. The aim of the study therefore is to
investigate the causes and implications of apostasy and make recommendations that will
assist both church members and the church leadership in formulating policies and
programs geared towards minimizing apostasy in the church.
The study combines both the quantitative and the qualitative research designs. The
population for the study consisted of the one hundred and seventy one (171) churches
with a total church membership of one hundred and fifty three thousand, seven hundred
and two (153,702). A sample percentage of ten was adopted for the selection of churches while the proportional stratified sampling technique was used. The instruments used for
the study were both face and content validated and a pilot study carried out to determine
the reliability of the questionnaire. The data collected from the study was analysed using
descriptive statistics and a descriptive interpretive method.
Findings from the study confirm that there is apostasy within the WZC of the Seventhday
Adventist Church. Accordingly, the data analysis revealed that the causes of apostasy
in order of magnitude are external, internal and doctrinal respectively. The study also
revealed that youths, females and urban church members are highly susceptible to
apostasy than their adult, male and rural counterparts respectively. Apostasy had a
considerable effect on church membership as well as the receiving of tithes and offerings.
Recommendations were made based on the findings of the research.Christian Spirituality, Church History & Missiology
D. Th. (Church History)
44
Pretorius, Shirley Frances. "A history of the Dutch Reformed Church in Zimbabwe : with special reference to the Chinhoyi Congregation." Thesis, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/15819.
Full textAbstract:
This history which spans the period 1836 -1995, gives a picture of the Dutch Reformed Church in Zimbabwe which evolved from the missionary endeavour of the mother church in South Africa into an independent autonomous church. It is a story of Dutch (Afrikaner) piety in which the most important components are
evangelisation, education and language, the whole of which was, and is still, influenced by the evangelical piety of Andrew Murray. With regard to the education of their children, the Dutch Reformed members believed that Christian education in the mother tongue was the ideal. This world view, together with the Protestant principle, that people should read and interpret Scripture for themselves, resulted in the establishment of three churches in Zimbabwe. Firstly, the Dutch Reformed Church (Synod of Central Africa), that ministers to the Afrikaans and English members of all races. Secondly, the Reformed Church
of Zimbabwe that ministers to the Shona people, and thirdly the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (Synod Malawi) that ministers to the migrant workers from Malawi.
Of the three components in Dutch piety, evangelisation is regarded by the members
as the most important in their missionary endeavour. This is the search for a contextual identity and illustrates how the Afrikaners in Zimbabwe experienced the reality of God in their lives. It is also a description of the interaction of the Dutch Reformed Church in Zimbabwe with the society in which it found itself. This interaction is observed to be of four types, namely, public witness, social upliftment and empowerment, the increase of social strength and the establishment of the community.Church History
45
Steyn, Tobias Hertzog van Reenen. "Who cares for the people in Zimbabwe? : a challenge to pastoral caregivers in South Africa." Thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/29384.
Full textAbstract:
This dissertation concerns itself with the task of creating a pastoral care model in order to offer care for the people in Zimbabwe, whilst the political instability causes much suffering to these people. It was motivated from the author's personal relationships with various Zimbabweans and his understanding that Zimbabweans are his neighbours in need. Through Narrative Therapy, the author used his understanding of Christian hope, creating positive future stories with Zimbabweans. The hope and focus of this dissertation is to research the problem in Zimbabwe, in order to help the Church in its role as prophet and pastoral caregiver. However, this dissertation would have been to no avail, if it did not attempt to create a model of caring which will empower the South African Church to become pastoral caregivers towards the Church in Zimbabwe. - Firstly, the author will strive to clarify the problems faced by the Zimbabwean Church.
- Secondly, the author will seek to bring an awareness of this problem in Zimbabwe to the Church in South Africa, through its prophetic voice.
- Thirdly, the author hopes to create a model of pastoral care that will not only care spiritually for the people, but will also meet some of the physical and emotional needs of the people in Zimbabwe.
Thesis (PhD)--University of Pretoria, 2010.
Practical Theology
unrestricted
46
Mavunganidze, Talent Celia. "A critical inquiry into sexual networks in Marange District, a case study of Johane Marange Apostolic Church community in Marange, Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10539/6629.
Full textAbstract:
The study is an inquiry of sexual networks in the Johanne Marange apostolic community. The
study is a conceptual shift in the study of HIV transmission, with focus moving beyond the
individual and beyond the principles of desire, pleasure and procreation to a study of sexual
networks which are social structures. The study identifies the type of sexual networks and
further investigates the determinants of sexual networks in Marange community. Sexual
networks are simply webs of sexual relations in a community or society and these webs of
relations act as transmission highways for HIV. The study discusses all the complex interactions
between the domain of society that is religion, culture, history and environment of the
Marange community and uncovers how these aspects of society have influenced the shape and
structure of sexual networks in the community. The study also emphasizes the importance of
understanding sexual network structure as it influences the efficiency of HIV transmission and
aims to contribute to a better understanding of sexual networks and HIV transmission.
47
Chemvumi, Tinashe. "Can the church use pastoral care as a method to address victims of political violence in Zimbabwe?" Diss., 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/28857.
Full textAbstract:
The principal of this thesis is to show how the Church can use the shepherding model of pastoral care as a method to address victims of the 2008 political violence in Zimbabwe. The model is biblically sound and is quite challenging to an African Christian practicing pastoral care. The Palestinian shepherds when herding the flock they are in front while in Africa, Zimbabwe in particular, we herd from behind. The Palestinian model is important for the Church to emulate. Could the African – Zimbabwean model be the one that the Churches in Zimbabwe have employed? The Church has been reacting when things are happening. The church has not been helpful by prophetically confronting the evil of political violence. The shepherding model of pastoral care calls the church take a risk, trusting God for providence. The church can not afford to be silent when people are being traumatized by political violence. Remaining silent will be regarded as siding with the evil that traumatize people. It is the church that can only be a vehicle of hope, healing and reconciliation. The three stories shared in chapter four is a clear testimony that the church has a lot to do in terms of creating safe environment, rehabilitation and even integrations.Dissertation (MA(Theol))--University of Pretoria, 2011.
Practical Theology
unrestricted
48
Chauke, Elesinah. "Awareness as a process toward a liberating theology for the women of South-East Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/1857.
Full textAbstract:
This research is a study in systematic theology with strong implications on the biblical doctrine of anthropology for women. Having said this, it needs to be made clear that it was not the intention of this research to deal with the traditional abstract of theology in all its details. The doctrine however is alluded to, from the perspective of African Women's Theology, in that the research builds upon women's experiences, and looks at them in the light of what the researcher sees as God-given dignity for all humanity including women, from the time of creation. It is from this perspective that the researcher approached her synthesis and the basis of such analysis is multi-disciplinary. The people under study are that of the Mashangana (va-Hlengwe) and the (ya-Karangd) who inhabit South-East Zimbabwe. Special emphasis was placed on the situation of women in this area. Chapter 1 presents the motivation for the study, namely, the invisibility of women in positions of leadership responsibilities in the Church and in the public sector. The chapter seeks to investigate the causes of this imbalance and discusses the thesis of this study that women are capable of leading, but are prevented from doing so due to cultural and theological factors. The methodology and theoretical frame of reference used is also discussed in this chapter. Chapter 2 examines briefly the background information about the people under study, and related issues of geography, culture, Christianisation and civilisation. It should however be mentioned that this study has no intention of giving a detailed history of Zimbabwe and its people. Other scholars, including, Ranger, T.O. (1967; 1970); Daneel, M. L. (1971); Murphree, W. M. and Cheater, G. (eds.) (1975); Dachs, J. A. (ed.) (1973) provide adequate information in this regard. This study provides only the basic background on those aspects that are essential for purposes of this present study; consequently, the background that is given is designed to set the stage for a deeper understanding of life in South-East Zimbabwe. Chapter 3 investigates the contribution of Christianity and modernisation in shaping the identity of women. This is done in order to provide a further foundation upon which the interviews with the women and men of South-East Zimbabwe are presented. Chapter 4 begins the analysis of responses from the interviews with the people under study. From this chapter the causes of the problem become identifiable and levels of women's awareness begin to show, as analysis of the responses is undertaken. Chapter 5 continues with the analysis analyses of the responses of the interviews on the effects and influence of Christianity and western civilisation upon women, including, education, political and socio-economics. Chapter 6 is the last of the three chapters that deal specifically with the analysis of the field research, and deals in particular with the responses on the question of leadership, Church and culture as it relates to women. The limited number of women in leadership is brought out in particular from the interviews. Chapter 7 reviews African Women's Theology as a possible instrument of liberation. The goals and aspirations of the Circle of Concerned African Women Theologians are examined as a means of providing hope for the women of South- East Zimbabwe. Chapter 8 investigates empowerment as a way forward. It discusses the empowerment of women through both Church and society. Suggestions are made as to how empowerment can be implemented. Women themselves are challenged to take action. Chapter 9 is a summary of the entire research and a challenge to the women of South-East Zimbabwe to stand up and boldly claim their humanity and dignity and to exercise their God-given responsibilities.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.
49
Mandeya, Annah Shamiso. "The role of culture and the Roman Catholic Church on HIV and AIDS among the Manyika women of Manicaland, Zimbabwe." Thesis, 2018. http://uir.unisa.ac.za/handle/10500/25673.
Full textAbstract:
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 103-113)The advent of HIV and AIDS has had a negative impact on the Catholic, Anglican and Methodist churches (as well as others) in Manicaland, Zimbabwe. This was due to the difficulty of accepting the reality of this pandemic. This happened because the disease came with unbearable psycho-social suffering rooted in stigmatisation and discrimination, especially among women, who were the most vulnerable group. This study critically examines and exposes the effects of HIV and AIDS on Manyika women. The researcher argues that, on the one hand, some religious and cultural practices contributed to the spread of the HIV and AIDS infection. On the other hand, some of these practices discouraged the spread of HIV and AIDS pandemic and needed to be enhanced. Furthermore, even if churches are involved in the battle against HIV, their efforts are hindered by cultural practices such as the Manyikas’ unwillingness to discuss taboo issues such as sex and gender in public. This makes women vulnerable. In addition, the problem has been complicated by the fact that the issue of sexuality is not openly discussed in the churches. Using qualitative methods, the researcher conducted interviews with Catholics and found that there is a need to continually engage with these communities. Their lived experiences can be used to bring about their liberation and improve their capacity to deal with their situation. The argument of this study is that there is an urgent need to liberate and empower women in the era of HIV and AIDS. The journey that has already been started by the Circle of Concerned African Women Theologians (“the Circle”) could assist in the liberation of women to deal with the HIV and AIDS pandemic. In addition, this can build on Catholic Church HIV and AIDS interventions among the Manyika people of Zimbabwe as a premise of that process of liberation.
Philosophy, Practical and Systematic Theology
D. Phil. (Theology)
50
Moyo, Elitha. "Healing memories : a practical theological study of victims of violence with special reference to the Lutheran Churches in the Mberengwa District in Zimbabwe." Diss., 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/21005.
Full textAbstract:
The purpose of this study was to unveil what the Lutheran Church has done and could do to heal the wounded society of Mberengwa during the political violence of 2000-2009. The researcher interviewed six (6) selected informants who were all members of the Lutheran church. They shared their political violence experiences.
The methods used to collect data were the questionnaire and unstructured interviews. The study began with the general introduction, followed by various themes as indicated by various literatures on healing of memories, Pastoral Care and Counseling and the church’s mandate in crisis situations. After the data analysis the findings confirmed that the church failed the community during its time of need.
The study recommended that the church should come-up with a pastoral care model to the wounded community of Mberengwa. This model encompasses the Healing of memories and reconciliation as its basis.Philosophy, Practical and Systematic Theology
M. Th. (Practical Theology)