Project – The role of female theologians in nurturing infant during Sunday service in ECWA theological seminary Karu

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The role of female theologians in nurturing infants during Sunday services at ECWA Theological Seminary Karu is a multifaceted subject that intersects theology, gender studies, and child development. Female theologians have historically played a significant role in the spiritual and emotional nurturing of children within religious communities. Their involvement is not only a reflection of their theological training but also an extension of their maternal instincts and societal roles. According to Oduyoye (2001), African women theologians often integrate their cultural understanding of motherhood with their theological insights, creating a unique approach to nurturing that is both spiritually enriching and culturally relevant.

In the context of ECWA Theological Seminary Karu, female theologians bring a unique perspective to the nurturing of infants during Sunday services. Their theological training equips them with the knowledge to impart spiritual teachings, while their gendered experiences provide them with the empathy and understanding necessary for effective child care. As noted by Phiri (2004), the involvement of women in theological education and ministry has led to a more inclusive and holistic approach to spiritual nurturing, one that considers the needs of all congregants, including the youngest members.

The nurturing role of female theologians during Sunday services is also supported by the theological framework of ECWA, which emphasizes the importance of community and family in spiritual development. According to Bediako (1995), African Christian theology often places a strong emphasis on communal values and the collective responsibility of nurturing the next generation. Female theologians at ECWA Theological Seminary Karu embody these values by providing a nurturing environment for infants, ensuring that they are not only cared for physically but also introduced to the foundational aspects of the Christian faith.

Moreover, the practical aspects of nurturing infants during Sunday services require a combination of theological knowledge and practical skills. Female theologians often take on roles that involve storytelling, singing, and interactive activities that engage infants in a manner that is both educational and spiritually uplifting. As Tiénou (1990) points out, the integration of theological education with practical ministry skills is essential for effective ministry, and female theologians at ECWA Theological Seminary Karu exemplify this integration in their nurturing roles.

The impact of female theologians on the spiritual development of infants is also significant. Early childhood is a critical period for spiritual formation, and the presence of nurturing female theologians can have a lasting impact on a child’s faith journey. According to Fowler (1981), the early stages of faith development are heavily influenced by the child’s immediate environment and the caregivers they interact with. Female theologians, through their nurturing roles, provide a stable and spiritually rich environment that fosters the early stages of faith development in infants.

In conclusion, the role of female theologians in nurturing infants during Sunday services at ECWA Theological Seminary Karu is a vital aspect of the seminary’s ministry. Their unique combination of theological knowledge, practical skills, and empathetic understanding makes them well-suited for this role. The nurturing environment they create not only supports the physical and emotional well-being of infants but also lays the foundation for their spiritual development. As the literature suggests, the involvement of female theologians in this capacity is both a reflection of their theological training and an extension of their cultural and societal roles, making them indispensable to the spiritual nurturing of the next generation.

History of children ministry in ECWA theological seminary Karu Abuja

The history of children’s ministry at the ECWA Theological Seminary in Karu, Abuja, is a rich and evolving narrative that reflects broader trends in theological education and community engagement within the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) denomination. Established in 1980, the seminary has long recognized the importance of ministering to all age groups, including children, as part of its mission to train and equip future church leaders. The children’s ministry at the seminary has grown significantly over the years, adapting to the changing needs of the community and incorporating contemporary pedagogical approaches to religious education.

In the early years, the children’s ministry at ECWA Theological Seminary was relatively informal, often relying on the spouses of seminarians and faculty members to volunteer their time and resources. These early efforts were primarily focused on providing basic religious instruction and moral guidance to the children of seminarians and local community members. The curriculum was simple, often consisting of Bible stories, songs, and basic catechism. Despite the limited resources, these early programs laid a crucial foundation for the more structured and comprehensive children’s ministry that would develop in later years.

By the 1990s, the children’s ministry at the seminary began to take on a more formal structure. Recognizing the need for a more organized approach, the seminary administration started to allocate specific resources and personnel to oversee the children’s programs. This period saw the introduction of age-appropriate curricula, trained Sunday school teachers, and a more systematic approach to religious education. The seminary also began to incorporate elements of child psychology and developmental theory into their teaching methods, ensuring that the spiritual and emotional needs of the children were being met in a holistic manner.

The turn of the millennium brought further advancements in the children’s ministry at ECWA Theological Seminary. With the advent of new educational technologies and a growing body of research on effective religious education, the seminary began to integrate multimedia resources and interactive teaching methods into their programs. This period also saw an increased emphasis on community involvement, with the seminary partnering with local churches and organizations to provide a more comprehensive support system for the children. Special events, such as Vacation Bible School and children’s retreats, became regular features of the ministry, offering additional opportunities for spiritual growth and community building.

In recent years, the children’s ministry at ECWA Theological Seminary has continued to evolve, reflecting broader societal changes and the growing recognition of the importance of early childhood education. The seminary has made significant investments in training and development for children’s ministry leaders, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in both theology and child development. The curriculum has also been updated to include a greater focus on social justice, environmental stewardship, and other contemporary issues, preparing the children to be thoughtful and engaged members of their communities.

The impact of the children’s ministry at ECWA Theological Seminary extends beyond the immediate seminary community, influencing the broader ECWA denomination and the wider Christian community in Nigeria. Graduates of the seminary who have been involved in the children’s ministry often go on to implement similar programs in their own churches and communities, spreading the benefits of the seminary’s approach to religious education far and wide. As the seminary continues to adapt and innovate, the children’s ministry remains a vital and dynamic part of its mission, nurturing the next generation of Christian leaders and believers.

1.2. Statement of the Problem

The role of female theologians in nurturing infants during Sunday services at ECWA Theological Seminary in Karu has not been extensively studied, despite its potential significance for both theological education and community life. Female theologians often bring unique perspectives and approaches to ministry, which can be particularly beneficial in the context of nurturing young children. However, the specific contributions and challenges faced by these women in this role remain underexplored. This gap in the literature suggests a need for a focused investigation to understand how female theologians are shaping the spiritual and emotional development of infants within the seminary community.

One of the primary issues is the lack of formal recognition and support for female theologians who take on the responsibility of nurturing infants during Sunday services. While their contributions are often invaluable, they may not receive the same level of institutional support or acknowledgment as their male counterparts. This disparity can lead to feelings of undervaluation and burnout among female theologians, potentially impacting their overall effectiveness and well-being. Understanding the institutional dynamics that contribute to this issue is crucial for developing more equitable support systems.

Additionally, the theological implications of female theologians nurturing infants during Sunday services warrant closer examination. The presence of women in these roles can challenge traditional gender norms within the church and seminary settings, offering a more inclusive model of ministry. However, this can also lead to resistance from more conservative factions within the community. Investigating how female theologians navigate these theological and cultural tensions can provide valuable insights into the evolving role of women in religious leadership.

The practical aspects of nurturing infants during Sunday services also present unique challenges and opportunities for female theologians. Balancing the demands of theological education, personal spiritual growth, and the care of young children requires a high level of skill and dedication. Exploring the strategies and resources that female theologians employ to manage these responsibilities can inform best practices and support mechanisms for others in similar roles.

Furthermore, the impact of female theologians on the infants they nurture is an important area of inquiry. Early childhood is a critical period for spiritual and emotional development, and the presence of nurturing, theologically trained women can have a profound influence on young children. Researching the long-term effects of this early exposure to female theological leadership can shed light on the broader implications for the church and society.

The role of female theologians in nurturing infants during Sunday services at ECWA Theological Seminary in Karu is a multifaceted issue that intersects with questions of gender, theology, and institutional support. Addressing this problem requires a comprehensive approach that considers the experiences of female theologians, the institutional context, and the developmental needs of infants. By doing so, we can better understand and support the vital contributions of female theologians to the seminary community and beyond.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the role of female theologians in nurturing infant during Sunday service in ECWA theological seminary Karu. The specific objectives are:

1. To examine the specific responsibilities and tasks undertaken by female theologians in caring for infants during Sunday services.
2. To explore the impact of female theologians’ nurturing role on the development and well-being of infants in the seminary community.
3. To assess the perceptions and experiences of female theologians regarding their involvement in nurturing infants during Sunday services.
4. To identify any challenges or barriers faced by female theologians in fulfilling their role in nurturing infants during Sunday services.

1.4.  Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What specific responsibilities and tasks do female theologians undertake in caring for infants during Sunday services?
2. How does the nurturing role of female theologians impact the development and well-being of infants in the seminary community?
3. What are the perceptions and experiences of female theologians regarding their involvement in nurturing infants during Sunday services?
4. What challenges or barriers do female theologians face in fulfilling their role in nurturing infants during Sunday services?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below;

Ho: Female theologians’ nurturing role have no effect on the development and well-being of infants in the seminary community

H1: Female theologians’ nurturing role have effect on the development and well-being of infants in the seminary community

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of the study on the role of female theologians in nurturing infants during Sunday services at ECWA Theological Seminary Karu is multifaceted. Firstly, this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the intersection of gender roles and religious practices within the seminary community. By focusing specifically on the nurturing role of female theologians, it will shed light on the often overlooked contributions of women in religious settings.

Secondly, this study has practical implications for the seminary community itself. Understanding the specific responsibilities and tasks undertaken by female theologians in caring for infants during Sunday services can help inform policies and practices that support their role. This can lead to a more inclusive and supportive environment for both female theologians and the infants in their care.

Furthermore, exploring the impact of female theologians’ nurturing role on the development and well-being of infants can have long-term implications for the seminary community. By understanding how these interactions shape the experiences of infants, seminary administrators can better support the holistic development of future religious leaders.

Additionally, assessing the perceptions and experiences of female theologians regarding their involvement in nurturing infants can provide valuable insights into the challenges and barriers they may face in fulfilling this role. This can inform strategies to address these obstacles and create a more equitable and empowering environment for female theologians.

Finally, identifying any challenges or barriers faced by female theologians in nurturing infants during Sunday services can lead to targeted interventions and support systems. By addressing these challenges, the seminary community can ensure that female theologians are able to fully engage in their nurturing role and contribute meaningfully to the spiritual development of the community.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The scope of the study is to examine the role of female theologians in nurturing infant during Sunday service in ECWA theological seminary Karu, Nasarawa

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Role: A role refers to the function or part an individual plays in a particular context or situation. It can be defined by specific duties, responsibilities, and expectations.
2. Female Theologians: Female theologians are women who study, teach, and write about theology, which is the study of the nature of the divine, religious beliefs, and the practice of faith. They contribute to theological scholarship and often engage in discussions about religious doctrines, ethics, and the interpretation of sacred texts.
3. Nurturing: Nurturing involves caring for and encouraging the growth or development of someone or something. It often implies providing emotional support, education, and physical care.
4. Infant: An infant is a very young child, typically under one year of age. Infants require significant care and nurturing as they are in the early stages of development.
5. Sunday Service: A Sunday service is a religious gathering that typically takes place on Sundays, which is considered a holy day in many Christian traditions. During a Sunday service, congregants participate in worship, prayer, singing hymns, reading scripture, and listening to a sermon or homily.
6. ECWA: ECWA stands for the Evangelical Church Winning All. It is a Christian denomination that originated in Nigeria and has a strong evangelical focus. ECWA is known for its emphasis on evangelism, church planting, and community development.
7. Theological Seminary: A theological seminary is an educational institution that provides training and education for individuals preparing for ministry, religious leadership, or advanced theological study. Seminaries offer courses in theology, biblical studies, pastoral care, church history, and other related subjects.

Project – The role of female theologians in nurturing infant during Sunday service in ECWA theological seminary Karu