Small Christian Communities: Membership and Participation in Tenden Sub-Parish, Kapcherop in Eldoret Diocese, Kenya (Published)
In the present-day Church, Small Christian Communities embody the reality of a religious and social life founded on concern for others as seen from the original Jerusalem Community. The study examined the characteristics of Small Christian Communities in Tenden Sub-Parish, Kapcherop, Eldoret Diocese, Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive approach. It relied on purposive and stratified sampling to sample 12 key informants, comprising priests, Deacons, Seminarians, and SCC leaders. The study employed questionnaires and interviews to collect data. Secondary data was generated from various libraries. The findings of the study showed that majority of those who attended SCCs were aged 36-45 years. Women still formed the majority of attendees. Fewer men than women attended SCC meetings. Men who attended SCCs were selective of activities in which to participate. Most of the SCCs, though recently established, were relatively active in pastoral activities. Despite the many challenges they experience, SCCs still play an important role in elevating members spiritually and materially. Therefore, based on the study findings, there is need to encourage younger members of the Church to attend SCCs for spiritual nourishment. Moreover, professionals and other educated laypersons should also be encouraged to participate in SCCs. They can bring their skills and competences to enhance the management and effectiveness of SCCs. This paper provides insight on the current state of SCCs to help church leaders in enhancing the efficiency of these communities and lay participation in SCCs.
Keywords: Membership, Participation, parish, small Christian communities