Factors influencing emergence and rapid growth of the charismatic churches in Makueni county

Abstract

ABSTRACT TITLE: FACTORS INFLUENCING EMERGENCE AND RAPID GROWTH OF THE CHARISMATIC CHURCHES IN MAKUENI COUNTY AUTHOR: AGNES NDUNGWA NTHUMBI The purpose of this study was to identify the factors influencing the emergence and rapid growth of charismatic churches in Makueni County. The study focused on this phenomenon which is bringing a rift between the mainline churches and charismatic churches in the county. The objectives of this study were: to assess the spiritual factors, determine leadership factors, and to investigate social-cultural factors that have led to the thriving of the charismatic churches in the county thus causing a rift. The study used both the primary and secondary data. The primary data was collected using questionnaires and interviews while the secondary data was acquired from text books and other print media. The assumption of the study is that the questionnaires did generate the required responses, that all the respondents were co-operative and truthful and that they gave the required information honestly based on the best of their knowledge. The study established that; the majority of the respondents stated that it was the spiritual satisfaction; others stated it was hunger for holiness. The majority of respondents rated the spiritual satisfaction in their churches as satisfying. The study further established that the mainline churches neglected the spiritual needs of the youth and the vulnerable members. The leaders and members of charismatic churches had gifts which include; prophecy, healing, speaking in tongues and interpretation of tongues. Pastors had the ability to connect with followers in such a way that the follower felt special and needed. The pastors possessed miracle performing and healing through the power of prayers. The study concludes that among the factors that led to the emergence of the charismatic churches were leadership wrangles and the need for spiritual quest. The study noted that members of the charismatic' churches remain faithful to their churches because of worship, praise and prayers, "whereas members of the mainline churches are anchored there by the nurturing and growth they experience there. The study recommends that the church management and leaders device an appropriate channel for their members to air their grievances as a means of reducing leadership wrangles. The study also recommends that church members be nurtured in the faith, whether by a slow but consistent process, so as to properly anchor them in the Christian faith. This will enhance their commitment to the Christian mission.