Project – Evaluation of Promoting social justice and equality in the Church

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Promoting social justice and equality within the Church has been a topic of significant scholarly interest, reflecting broader societal concerns about equity and human rights. The Church, as a moral and social institution, has historically played a pivotal role in shaping societal values and norms. According to Cone (2011), the Black Church in America has been a critical site for the struggle for civil rights and social justice, providing both spiritual sustenance and a platform for political activism. This dual role underscores the potential of religious institutions to influence social change, particularly in marginalized communities.

The theological underpinnings of social justice in the Church are deeply rooted in scriptural interpretations and doctrinal teachings. Liberation theology, which emerged in Latin America in the 20th century, emphasizes the Church’s mission to advocate for the poor and oppressed. Gutierrez (1973) argues that the preferential option for the poor is not merely a social or political stance but a theological imperative derived from the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. This perspective has been influential in reshaping the Church’s approach to social justice, encouraging a more active engagement in addressing systemic inequalities.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for the Church to address issues of gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. Scholars like Cornwall (2016) have highlighted the tensions between traditional doctrinal positions and contemporary understandings of gender and sexuality. The Church’s stance on these issues has significant implications for its ability to promote social justice and equality. Inclusive theology, which seeks to reinterpret religious texts in a way that affirms the dignity and rights of all individuals, has gained traction as a means of reconciling these tensions.

The role of the Church in promoting racial justice has also been a focal point of contemporary scholarship. Emerson and Smith (2000) discuss the concept of “racialized religion,” where religious institutions can either perpetuate or challenge racial inequalities. The authors argue that for the Church to be a true advocate for social justice, it must confront its own complicity in systemic racism and actively work towards racial reconciliation and equity. This involves not only addressing overt acts of discrimination but also challenging the underlying structures and ideologies that sustain racial disparities.

Interfaith dialogue and collaboration have emerged as important strategies for promoting social justice and equality. Patel (2012) emphasizes the potential of interfaith initiatives to build bridges between diverse communities and foster a collective commitment to social justice. By working together, religious institutions can amplify their impact and address complex social issues more effectively. This collaborative approach also reflects a broader understanding of social justice as a shared responsibility that transcends individual religious traditions.

Finally, the practical implementation of social justice initiatives within the Church requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, advocacy, and community engagement. According to Perkins (1993), effective social justice ministry involves not only addressing immediate needs but also working towards systemic change. This holistic approach ensures that the Church’s efforts are sustainable and transformative. By integrating social justice into its core mission, the Church can play a vital role in creating a more just and equitable society.

• Statement of the Problem

The Church in Nigeria, like many religious institutions worldwide, plays a significant role in shaping societal values and norms. However, despite its influential position, the Church has often been criticized for not doing enough to promote social justice and equality. This issue is particularly pressing in Nigeria, a country marked by significant ethnic, economic, and gender disparities. The Church’s potential to be a force for positive change is immense, yet it remains underutilized in addressing these critical social issues (Akinade, 2010).

One of the primary challenges in promoting social justice within the Nigerian Church is the deeply entrenched patriarchal structures that often marginalize women. Despite the growing global movement towards gender equality, many Nigerian churches continue to uphold practices that limit women’s roles and participation. This not only perpetuates gender inequality but also undermines the Church’s mission of inclusivity and justice (Oduyoye, 2001). Addressing this issue requires a fundamental shift in theological interpretations and church policies to ensure that women are given equal opportunities to lead and contribute.

Economic inequality is another significant problem that the Church in Nigeria must confront. The country is characterized by a stark divide between the wealthy and the poor, with many Nigerians living in poverty. The Church, with its extensive network and resources, is in a unique position to advocate for economic justice and support initiatives that uplift the marginalized. However, there is often a disconnect between the Church’s teachings on charity and its actions in addressing systemic economic issues (Ilo, 2012). Bridging this gap is essential for the Church to effectively promote social justice.

Ethnic and religious tensions also pose a significant challenge to social justice in Nigeria. The country is home to diverse ethnic groups and religious communities, and conflicts between these groups have often led to violence and discrimination. The Church, which spans across these divides, has the potential to be a unifying force. However, it has sometimes been complicit in perpetuating these divisions, either through silence or active participation in discriminatory practices (Falola, 1998). Promoting social justice in this context requires the Church to take a strong stand against ethnic and religious discrimination and to actively work towards reconciliation and peacebuilding.

Furthermore, the issue of corruption within the Church itself cannot be ignored. Instances of financial mismanagement and abuse of power have eroded trust in religious institutions and hindered their ability to advocate for social justice. Transparency and accountability within the Church are crucial for restoring credibility and ensuring that it can effectively address social issues (Gifford, 1998). Implementing robust governance structures and ethical guidelines is essential for the Church to lead by example in the fight for justice and equality.

Promoting social justice and equality in the Church in Nigeria is a multifaceted challenge that requires addressing gender inequality, economic disparity, ethnic and religious tensions, and internal corruption. The Church has the potential to be a powerful advocate for change, but this requires a commitment to introspection, reform, and active engagement with the broader societal issues. By embracing these challenges, the Church can fulfill its mission of being a beacon of hope and justice in Nigeria (Akinade, 2010; Oduyoye, 2001; Ilo, 2012; Falola, 1998; Gifford, 1998).

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine “Promoting social justice and equality in the Church”. The specific objectives are:

1. Investigate the historical and current practices within the Church that may contribute to social injustice and inequality.
2. Analyze the impact of gender, race, and socioeconomic status on individuals’ experiences within the Church community.
3. Explore the role of leadership and decision-making processes in perpetuating or challenging social injustices within the Church.
4. Examine the effectiveness of existing initiatives or programs aimed at promoting social justice and equality within the Church.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What historical and current practices within the Church may contribute to social injustice and inequality?
2. How do gender, race, and socioeconomic status impact individuals’ experiences within the Church community?
3. What is the role of leadership and decision-making processes in perpetuating or challenging social injustices within the Church?
4. How effective are existing initiatives or programs aimed at promoting social justice and equality within the Church?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Gender, race, and socioeconomic status have no significant impact on individuals’ experiences within the Church community.

H1: Gender, race, and socioeconomic status have significant impact on individuals’ experiences within the Church community

• Significance of the Study

The significance of promoting social justice and equality in the Church are:

1. Historical Context and Moral Imperative: The Church has long been a cornerstone of moral and ethical guidance for its followers. Historically, it has played a pivotal role in various social movements, from the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement. Promoting social justice and equality within the Church is not just a modern-day necessity but a continuation of its historical mission. By addressing issues of inequality and injustice, the Church can fulfill its moral imperative to be a beacon of hope and a force for good in society.
2. Theological Foundations: The principles of social justice and equality are deeply rooted in Christian theology. Scriptures such as Galatians 3:28, which states, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus,” emphasize the inherent equality of all people. By promoting these values, the Church aligns itself with its foundational teachings and the example set by Jesus Christ, who advocated for the marginalized and oppressed.
3. Community Impact: Churches often serve as community hubs, providing not only spiritual guidance but also social support. By actively promoting social justice and equality, the Church can address systemic issues that affect its congregation and the broader community. This can lead to tangible improvements in areas such as education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, thereby enhancing the overall well-being of the community.
4. Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations: Promoting social justice and equality can also strengthen the Church’s relationships with other faith communities and secular organizations. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, collaboration across different faiths and ideologies is essential for addressing global challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and climate change. By taking a stand on these issues, the Church can build bridges and foster a spirit of unity and cooperation.
5. Youth Engagement and Future Leadership: Younger generations are particularly attuned to issues of social justice and equality. By prioritizing these values, the Church can engage and inspire young people, who are often disillusioned with institutions they perceive as outdated or unjust. This engagement is crucial for the future of the Church, as it ensures the development of future leaders who are committed to these principles and can carry the mission forward.
6. Global Influence and Responsibility: The Church, particularly large denominations like the Catholic Church, has a significant global presence and influence. This positions it uniquely to advocate for social justice and equality on a worldwide scale. By leveraging its influence, the Church can contribute to international efforts to combat inequality and injustice, thereby fulfilling its responsibility as a global moral leader.

Furthermore, promoting social justice and equality in the Church is essential for aligning with its theological foundations, impacting communities positively, fostering interfaith relations, engaging youth, and leveraging its global influence. This commitment not only honors the Church’s historical role but also ensures its relevance and moral authority in the contemporary world.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines “Promoting social justice and equality in the Church”. The study is limited to selected Churches in Lagos.

• Operational Definition Terms

Here are the definitions for each of the terms:

Promoting: The act of encouraging or advocating for a particular cause, idea, or course of action. It involves activities aimed at increasing awareness, support, or implementation of the subject being promoted.

Social Justice: A concept that refers to the fair and just distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society. It involves addressing and rectifying inequalities and ensuring that all individuals have equal access to the benefits and protections of society. Social justice often encompasses issues such as economic inequality, human rights, and access to education and healthcare.

Equality: The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities. It means that all individuals are treated the same and have the same chances to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances. Equality aims to eliminate discrimination and ensure that everyone has the same legal and social standing.

Church: A building used for public Christian worship, or more broadly, the community of people who share the Christian faith. The term can also refer to the organized institution of Christianity, including its various denominations, doctrines, and practices. The Church often plays a significant role in the spiritual, social, and moral guidance of its members.

Project – Evaluation of Promoting social justice and equality in the Church