| 1 |
Author(s):
Kyegh Aov Thaddeus (Ph.D.).
Page No : 1-12
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Decoding the Shift: An Inquiry into the Evolution of Dressing Patterns among Female Christians: A Study of the Universal Reformed Christian (NKST) Church (1911-2022)
Abstract
The study examined the historical evolution of human attire, tracing its progression from primal nakedness to the development of clothing for decency. Societies have refined dressing norms, reflecting cultural values and moral standards. However, the 20th to 21st centuries saw a significant departure from traditional dressing, particularly among women, transcending religious affiliations. Indecent dressing and exposing body contours became prevalent even in the Orthodox Church, like the NKST. The study aimed to understand the causes of this shift and its societal consequences. While decent dressing is a cultural cornerstone for older generations, some conservative newer generations still uphold this tradition. The analysis emphasizes the negative repercussions of indecent dressing and advocates for a return to decent dressing, especially among female Christians in the Universal Reformed Christian Church and other religious communities. The study contributes to the broader discourse on cultural values, highlighting the importance of reinstating modesty in attire for societal well-being.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Emmanuel Obed Acquah, George Asabre Maclean.
Page No : 13-25
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Songs of the Sea: the Socio-Cultural Fabric of Fisherfolk Work Songs in Winneba
Abstract
This article presents the findings of a study investigating the socio-cultural dimensions of work songs among the fisherfolk of the Winneba Fishing Community in Ghana's central region. It explores the significance of work songs in the daily lives of fisherfolk and their broader socio-cultural impact within the community. Employing a qualitative approach and utilizing a case study design, the authors gathered data through interviews, observations, and focus group discussions involving fifteen purposively sampled fisherfolk. The study was underpinned with the theories of Sense of Community as well as Understanding Music Making of a community. It was found out that work songs are integral to various fishing activities in Winneba fishing community, serving to foster community cohesion, enhance productivity, and preserve cultural heritage. The findings offer practical recommendations for the preservation and promotion of work songs within the Winneba fishing community.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Dotun Adeboye, Adebayo Ola Afolaranmi (Ph.D.), Donald A. Odeleye (Ph.D.).
Page No : 26-33
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Equilibrium Between Engaging in Practical Missiology and Scholarly Academic Missiology: A Driving Force to Attain Missio Dei
Abstract
There is no difference between the terms Mission and Missiology, as far as some are concerned, whereas to others, these terms have different meanings. The term "Missiology" is commonly used among the academia but not commonly used among the non-academic persons who are actively involved in missions. The latter is more conversant with the term ‘mission ‘and “missionary”. Some people are pure "Academic Missiologists" and "Non-Academic Missiologists", and fortunately there are several field missionaries today who double as Academic Missiologists. There is a perceived gap between the missiologists and the field missionaries. This paper is an extensive literature research on whether missiology is purely an Academic Discipline with no space for "non-academic missiologists “and whether there could be an equilibrium between engaging in practical missiology and scholarly academic Missiology as a driving force to attain missio Dei. Findings by the writer show that practical missiologists and scholarly academic Missiologists, complement each other and have the same thing at stake. They both want to see the work of mission carried forward. The study concludes with some recommendations to both practical missiologists and scholarly academic missiologists.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Alabi David O. (Ph.D.), Tukasi Emmanuel O. (Ph.D.), Olufemi Olukunle J., Ayegunle Isaac O., Omotayo Joseph A., Tunase Christian T..
Page No : 34-51
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Eco-Theological Implications of Psalms 8 in The Context of Biodiversity Preservation and Field Hunting in Osun Groove.
Abstract
The great concern in recent times has been the speed of immorality and decadence in churches and society, much of which have been attested to globalization and Information communication Technology (ICT). The study examined this position as it posed some questions on the relevance of global system networking and information technology for church growth, wealth accumulation, job creation and welfare for the Nigerians. The study also corrected the notion that globalization is a recent phenomenon that came up in the twentieth century. It gave out the true picture of what global networking really is, and, its contributions to human development. The study adopted historical, sociological and hermeneutic methods to trace the history and social global lifestyles of people in the Bible and world at large. It also discussed the background to global connectivity between the indigenous Pentecostal Churches in Nigeria and Overseas; the development of information communication and the global technology right from the western world to Africa, particularly Nigeria. Data were collected through the use of texts in Christ Apostolic Church archives in Ibadan, University of Ibadan archives and from the Akure main Library. Interviews were conducted in selected secretariat Churches in Akure, Ibadan and Lagos. Such church secretariats include Christ Apostolic Church Secretariat Ibadan, Mountain of Fire Ministry Secretariat Akure and Redeemed Christian Church of God Secretariat Lagos. The study revealed that globalization, a topical phenomenon is not new as many scholars assumed. It has been in existence right from the Bible through the contemporary world with modifications. Also, the study revealed that Pentecostal Churches are custodians of ICT right from the twentieth century and this trend contributed greatly to the rapid expansion in the contemporary Nigeria. Data collected were analyzed historically and hermeneutically.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Victor Umaru.
Page No : 52-67
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Youth at the Crossroad: A Reflection from the Book of Ruth 1:1-5 in the Context of Youth Migration in Nigeria.
Abstract
The article discusses the timeless narrative of the Book of Ruth, specifically verses 1:1-5, and explores its relevance to the contemporary phenomenon of youth migration in Nigeria. It examines the socio-economic and cultural factors driving youth migration by drawing parallels between the journey of Elimelech and his family and the experiences of young Nigerians seeking better opportunities outside their homeland. It reveals the challenges Nigerian youth face as they go through the terrain of migration, including the search for economic stability, the pursuit of education, and escape from conflict and instability. Moreover, the article reflects on the themes of resilience, faith, and community support depicted in Na’omi’s story and their applicability to the struggles encountered by modern-day migrants. The paper employs an analytical method that combines sociological observations with biblical interpretation to analyse the dynamics behind youth mobility in Nigeria. For young people to flourish in their communities, it highlights how crucial it is to address the underlying reasons for migration, implement inclusive development policies, and promote a positive atmosphere. Finally, the paper advocates for a comprehensive strategy based on proactive intervention, empathy, and solidarity to combat youth migration.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Steve Ibuomo Larry (Ph.D.).
Page No : 68-76
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Ethnicity and Democracy in Nigeria: A Study of the Fourth Republic, 1999-2015.
Abstract
This paper examines ethnicity and democracy in Nigeria using the Fourth Republic as a case study. The work takes a look at the role of ethnicity and its effects in the democratization process particularly in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. This was done by carefully studying available literature on the subject matter. The study revealed that the Nigeria democratization process has been plagued by the danger of ethnic sentiments. Finally, the work concludes that the recruitment of the electorate into key positions of trust should be done with utmost sincerity and honesty instead of promoting ethnic colonies. Also, Nigeria being a developing country should introduce certain genuine development policies that will recognize ethnic accommodation. Secondary sources of data collection were applied in this study and it is descriptive and analytical.
