The diocese of Lagos west of the anglican communion, Church of Nigeria as agent of social and political change in the society

Electronic versions

Documents

  • Richard Adekoya

    Research areas

  • School of Philosophy and Religion, DMin

Abstract

This dissertation evaluates the activities of the Diocese of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Church of Nigeria and its contribution to societal development. Over the years, the DLW has been involved with the society and has become a major diocese within the Anglican Communion, Church of Nigeria and in Lagos State, with a substantial numerical strength as well as a meaningful social, political, economic, and religious influence within the society. Since its establishment, the DLW has made great achievements in the areas of education, healthcare, social and political development. This study aims to show that the DLW in Lagos has been part of society building and it will explore the impacts of their activities in the society. This study demonstrates that the social and political involvement of the DLW in the society has a biblical and philosophical conviction. The research hypothesises that the closer the relationship of the church has with the state is crucial for the benefit of the people. The research employed an empirical qualitative approach to test the proposition by analysing the data from the research area. The findings of the research show that religion and politics can mix as they are both concerned with the same subject matter –the people, who belong to both camps. The findings also show the close relationship between the church and the state and the extent to which the church is involved with the state and politics. However, the ambivalent character of the church like every other faith was validated. State and church do both impact society, but the DLW’s effective work in the society was quite distinct from the state or its politics. As such, the church is well positioned for societal transformation both politically and socially. This should serve as an example to other churches, allowing them to realise that their social and political actions are means of fulfilling their mission and clear the doubts on the legitimacy of the Church getting involved in the socio-political realm. Recommendations are made to ensure that the church maintains its boundaries despite its involvement -whilst sustaining its positive influence in the society on the one hand, and also challenging the unjust structures and unfavourable government’s policies, on the other hand.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
Supervisors/Advisors
  • Anne Dyer (Supervisor)
Award date22 Jul 2013