Some people will undoubtedly
argue that this hermeneutical option is
not the only one, nor even the best one.
They'll suggest that the best among the
available options is to disavow the
Christian faith and consequently be
rid of the obnoxious Bible. And indeed
many Black people especially the
youth have gone further than Steve
Biko who asked rhetorically whether
the decolonization process should not
be accompanied by a process of the de·
christianization of Africa - a process
which if successfully accomplished.
would remove the Bible from Africa.
Young blacks have categorically identified
the Bible as an oppressive documenl
by its very nature and 10 its very
core. Hence the refusal of all oppressors
in South Africa and elsewhere to
part wilh it. They have zealously campaigned
for its expulsion from the
oppressed Black community but with
little success. And this is largely due to
Ihe fact that no easily accessible ideological
silo or storeroom is being
offered to the social classes of our
people that are desperately in need of
liberation. African traditional relig.
ions are 100 far behind most blacks
while Marxism, is to my mind, far
ahead of many blacks,' especially
adult people. In the absence of a better
storeroom of ideological and spiritual
food, the Christian religion and the
Bible will continue for an undeterminable
period of time 10 be the haven of
the Black masses par excellence.
This document summarizes the history of the North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD) from 1891 to 2010. It characterizes the early period from 1891 to 1978 as one of marginalization for Asian Disciples due to restrictions imposed by society and sometimes the church. From 1978 to 2010, the history was one of dynamism and hope, partly due to removed restrictions but also determined Disciples who strived to ensure Asian and Pacific Islanders had representation within the denomination. The key events were the founding of the first Asian Disciple community in 1891 and NAPAD becoming a general ministry of the denomination in 2010.
Asian American Churches: An Introductory SurveyDJ Chuang
This introductory report provides an overview of the distinctive characteristics and top ministry issues among Asian American churches (including what’s going well, new ministry opportunities being pursued, and key challenges). Published in March 2007 by L2 Foundation in partnership with Leadership Network. Researched by DJ Chuang.
African American spirituality provides a rich lens into the heart and soul of the black church experience, often overlooked in the Christian spiritual formation literature. By addressing this lacuna, this essay focuses on three primary shaping qualities o f history: the effects of slavery, the Civil Rights Movement under Dr. Martin Luther King’s leadership, and the emergence of the Black Church. Lour spiritual practices that influence African American spirituality highlight the historical and cultural context of being “forged in the fiery furnace,” including worship, preaching and Scripture, the community of faith and prayer, and community outreach. The essay concludes by recognizing four areas o f the lived experiences of African Americans from which the global church can glean: (1) persevering in pain and suffering, (2) turning to God for strength, (3) experiencing a living and passionate faith, and (4) affirming God’s intention for freedom and justice to be afforded to every individual.
How the Church can be Unleashed for the Next GenerationDJ Chuang
This document discusses ways for the church to engage the growing Asian American population. It notes that while Asian Americans currently make up around 6% of the US population, that number is projected to double by 2060. However, many Asian American young adults are dropping out of church. The document outlines seven ways for the church to be unleashed for the next generation: 1) multiplying fruitful churches, 2) making next generation leaders, 3) sending out laborers, 4) using resources generously, 5) keeping old and creating new, 6) discipling all nations, and 7) being local and global.
The document summarizes events related to the Presbytery of Charlotte. It discusses that Dr. John B. Rogers Jr. was selected as the Moderator of the Presbytery of Charlotte for 2006. It provides biographical details about Dr. Rogers. It also discusses the approval of a report from the Theological Task Force on Peace, Unity, and Purity of the Church by seminary presidents. Additionally, it outlines plans for a mobile disaster relief trailer being built by the Presbytery to aid communities impacted by disasters.
Some people will undoubtedly
argue that this hermeneutical option is
not the only one, nor even the best one.
They'll suggest that the best among the
available options is to disavow the
Christian faith and consequently be
rid of the obnoxious Bible. And indeed
many Black people especially the
youth have gone further than Steve
Biko who asked rhetorically whether
the decolonization process should not
be accompanied by a process of the de·
christianization of Africa - a process
which if successfully accomplished.
would remove the Bible from Africa.
Young blacks have categorically identified
the Bible as an oppressive documenl
by its very nature and 10 its very
core. Hence the refusal of all oppressors
in South Africa and elsewhere to
part wilh it. They have zealously campaigned
for its expulsion from the
oppressed Black community but with
little success. And this is largely due to
Ihe fact that no easily accessible ideological
silo or storeroom is being
offered to the social classes of our
people that are desperately in need of
liberation. African traditional relig.
ions are 100 far behind most blacks
while Marxism, is to my mind, far
ahead of many blacks,' especially
adult people. In the absence of a better
storeroom of ideological and spiritual
food, the Christian religion and the
Bible will continue for an undeterminable
period of time 10 be the haven of
the Black masses par excellence.
This document summarizes the history of the North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD) from 1891 to 2010. It characterizes the early period from 1891 to 1978 as one of marginalization for Asian Disciples due to restrictions imposed by society and sometimes the church. From 1978 to 2010, the history was one of dynamism and hope, partly due to removed restrictions but also determined Disciples who strived to ensure Asian and Pacific Islanders had representation within the denomination. The key events were the founding of the first Asian Disciple community in 1891 and NAPAD becoming a general ministry of the denomination in 2010.
Asian American Churches: An Introductory SurveyDJ Chuang
This introductory report provides an overview of the distinctive characteristics and top ministry issues among Asian American churches (including what’s going well, new ministry opportunities being pursued, and key challenges). Published in March 2007 by L2 Foundation in partnership with Leadership Network. Researched by DJ Chuang.
African American spirituality provides a rich lens into the heart and soul of the black church experience, often overlooked in the Christian spiritual formation literature. By addressing this lacuna, this essay focuses on three primary shaping qualities o f history: the effects of slavery, the Civil Rights Movement under Dr. Martin Luther King’s leadership, and the emergence of the Black Church. Lour spiritual practices that influence African American spirituality highlight the historical and cultural context of being “forged in the fiery furnace,” including worship, preaching and Scripture, the community of faith and prayer, and community outreach. The essay concludes by recognizing four areas o f the lived experiences of African Americans from which the global church can glean: (1) persevering in pain and suffering, (2) turning to God for strength, (3) experiencing a living and passionate faith, and (4) affirming God’s intention for freedom and justice to be afforded to every individual.
How the Church can be Unleashed for the Next GenerationDJ Chuang
This document discusses ways for the church to engage the growing Asian American population. It notes that while Asian Americans currently make up around 6% of the US population, that number is projected to double by 2060. However, many Asian American young adults are dropping out of church. The document outlines seven ways for the church to be unleashed for the next generation: 1) multiplying fruitful churches, 2) making next generation leaders, 3) sending out laborers, 4) using resources generously, 5) keeping old and creating new, 6) discipling all nations, and 7) being local and global.
The document summarizes events related to the Presbytery of Charlotte. It discusses that Dr. John B. Rogers Jr. was selected as the Moderator of the Presbytery of Charlotte for 2006. It provides biographical details about Dr. Rogers. It also discusses the approval of a report from the Theological Task Force on Peace, Unity, and Purity of the Church by seminary presidents. Additionally, it outlines plans for a mobile disaster relief trailer being built by the Presbytery to aid communities impacted by disasters.
This document discusses cultural diversity in the US Catholic Church. It defines key terms like culture, diversity, and communication styles. It emphasizes that diversity is important and a characteristic of modern times, bringing challenges and opportunities. The USCCB has made cultural diversity, especially Hispanic ministry, one of its priority goals. The Church must become more expert in diversity to effectively carry out its evangelizing mission in a multicultural world. Food for thought sections discuss how the Church is like a stew pot that adapts different cultures rather than a melting pot that forces assimilation.
REL 4035, Life, Meaning, and Vocation 1 Course Lear.docxaryan532920
REL 4035, Life, Meaning, and Vocation 1
Course Learning Outcomes for Unit I
Upon completion of this unit, students should be able to:
1. Express in writing what makes you a unique individual and what in your life has been character
forming.
2. Evaluate the emphasis American culture puts on the pursuit of happiness.
3. Conceive of meaning as being the deepest desire of our souls.
4. Understand that all human beings are religious beings.
5. Contextualize the place of Ecclesiastes in Biblical literature.
6. Assess the fear of Death and God in the book of Ecclesiastes.
7. Evaluate the value of friendship, a good meal, good, drink, and work.
Reading Assignment
The Bible
Ecclesiastes
When All You've Ever Wanted Isn't Enough: The Search for a Life That Matters
Chapter 1:
Was There Something I Was Supposed to Do with My Life?
Chapter 2:
The Most Dangerous Book in the Bible
Lives that Matter: What We Should Do and Who We Should Be
Composing a Life Story, p. 459-467
Unit Lesson
It could be argued that this course is a quest to fulfill Socrates quote, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
In this course, you are going to be asked to examine your life to insure that it is worth living. Your first task in
unit one is to write your life story in 500 words or less. This is no small task in itself. The first reading,
“Composing a Life Story” should help you think about how to approach this task.
The first chapter of Kushner’s book asks the question, “What do you want out of life?” Kushner makes the
case that the most common response to this question is something like, “All I want is to be happy.” This
“being happy” idea is even built into our declaration of independence which guarantees us the right to “the
pursuit of…happiness.” The problem is that happiness is not something that can be pursued. Happiness is
always a by-product of some more meaningful activity. Kushner argues in the end that what we really want in
life is meaning—we all want to know that our lives count—that we matter—that the world is better off with us
in it. Kushner ends making the argument that this need for meaning is a religious need. Thus, because we all
have this need, we are all religious.
In Chapter 2, Kushner turns to the Bible for help in seeking meaning in life. There is a strange, little, book in
the Old Testament, Ecclesiastes, in which a man recounts his search for meaning. Kushner writes a nice
introduction to Ecclesiastes and makes the case that it is one of the most dangerous books in the Bible.
UNIT I STUDY GUIDE
Beginning the Search for Identity and
Meaning
REL 4035, Life, Meaning, and Vocation 2
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
You are then asked to read Ecclesiastes and examine the many ways the author of that book attempted to
find meaning in life. He concludes that life is basically vanity—a vain search for meaning. In the end,
everyone dies and is forgotten. Thus all is vanity. ...
Meanings and the vibrational qualities of jesusEdward DiMaio
The document contains translations and explanations of key Aramaic words from the teachings of Jesus as translated by Neil Douglas-Klotz. It discusses how translating Jesus' words from the original Aramaic provides deeper spiritual and cultural context compared to translations to other languages like Greek or English. Key terms like "God", "heaven", and "spirit" take on new meanings when understood from their Aramaic roots and the cultural context in which Jesus taught. The document advocates embodying these teachings through practices like chanting and body prayer to reconnect with Jesus' original message.
American Research Journal of Humanities & Social Science (ARJHSS) is a double blind peer reviewed, open access journal published by (ARJHSS).
The main objective of ARJHSS is to provide an intellectual platform for the international scholars. ARJHSS aims to promote interdisciplinary studies in Humanities & Social Science and become the leading journal in Humanities & Social Science in the world.
This document provides an introduction to an online Christianity and culture course. It introduces the instructor, Dr. Stan Meyer, and provides some background on his experience. It also outlines some initial course details like contact information for the instructor, expectations around participating in discussions, and a sign-up for students to volunteer to lead devotions. The document serves to welcome students to the course and provide foundational information.
Cross-Cultural Approaches to Adoption by Fiona Bowie (z-lib.org).pdfKorieArsie
This document summarizes a book titled "Cross-Cultural Approaches to Adoption" edited by Fiona Bowie. The book contains chapters from anthropologists around the world examining adoption practices in various cultures. It aims to provide a broader understanding of adoption by demonstrating the range of child-rearing practices across societies and the benefits of appreciating family life from a cross-cultural perspective. The chapters explore topics such as fosterage in Africa, institutionalized adoption in Korea, and the circulation of children in Brazil and Ecuador in the context of international adoption.
The document discusses cultural and ethnic identity from a biblical perspective. It makes three key points:
1. At the beginning and end of Scripture, God intends for humanity to diversify culturally and celebrates this diversity. The Bible shows how cultural identities formed after Noah's flood and will exist in heaven.
2. God honors cultural identity by respecting how people identify themselves. The Bible describes how ethnic identities extended from families and were marked by shared characteristics like language and location.
3. While "race" is a modern concept not in Scripture, the Bible does acknowledge groups with shared ancestry or lineages. In ministry, it is important to understand people's lived experiences with their cultural identities, which are socially constructed
Prior to the advent of foreign cultures and religions such as Christianity and Islam, issues such as teenage pregnancy, abortion and suicide that threaten the dignity of human life were very rare among traditional Akans. Currently, the acute prevalence of these aforementioned issues indicates that the success chalked by traditional Akan ethics with its traditional religious values is eroding. Is it because the traditional Akan ethics, with its strong deontological basis, is now gradually being replaced by the modern western cultural eudaimonistic and utilitarian ethical value systems? This paper explores this fast paradigm shift on the dignity of human life among the Akans in Ghana.
This document contains a message from the Superior General about liturgy and several articles on the topic of liturgy from various Viatorian authors. It also recognizes anniversaries of religious commitments and provides news briefs. The articles discuss liturgy as a constitutive element of the Viatorian charism, the relationship between liturgy and history, how to engage youth in liturgy, and how liturgy can serve as a moment of catechesis. The overall document focuses on reflections from Viatorians on the importance and meaning of liturgy.
American Research Journal of Humanities & Social Science (ARJHSS) is a double blind peer reviewed, open access journal published by (ARJHSS).
The main objective of ARJHSS is to provide an intellectual platform for the international scholars. ARJHSS aims to promote interdisciplinary studies in Humanities & Social Science and become the leading journal in Humanities & Social Science in the world.
The document discusses West African religion and how it relates to rituals and music. Art and music in West Africa are related to religion as art symbolizes ancestors and spirits and is used in rituals. Music is also connected to religion through the use of instruments to create rhythms for dancing in religious ceremonies. The document contrasts Christianity, Islam, and indigenous religions in West Africa, explaining how Christianity and Islam arrived and were adopted in the region.
The current Cultural Shift in North America and their impact on .docxhe45mcurnow
The current Cultural Shift in North America and their impact on how we practice faith in community.
Book review due (4 pages)
Weird Church by Estock/Nixon,
with a focus on how Spiral Dynamics informs the way we frame the Christian faith and create faith communities in the years ahead.
Conversation with the author (students are responsible to come prepared to engage the material. This is one of those times when you probably want to do more than simply skim the book.)
The seven shifts
The variety of futures
Holocracy
Distinctive of the Millennial Generation
“Mainstream” Culture versus the Cultural Enclave
For Denominations
For Evangelicals
For Ethnic-identity churches
For the Children of Immigrants
Where and why Attractional Worship still works
What to do when Attractional Worship no longer works
.
This document provides information about speakers at a conference on intercultural worship that will take place from October 9-12, 2012 in San Jose, California. It includes biographies of several speakers who will discuss topics like pastoral and liturgical vision for intercultural worship, popular religious expressions in the Latinx community, tools for communion in multicultural parishes, Vatican II's impact on liturgy, and the relationship between liturgy and social justice. The document outlines speakers' areas of expertise and experience in liturgy, theology, and ministry.
Rev. Tripp Hudgins is an ordained Baptist minister pursuing a Ph.D. in Liturgical Studies and Ethnomusicology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, CA. His research focuses on Christian liturgy and music. He has over 15 years of experience in ministry, teaching, and writing. Currently he serves as the Director of Admissions at the American Baptist Seminary of the West.
This paper makes a case for further studies on the contribution of peace museums to interfaith dialogue debate. We argue that there is a lacuna in the study on the contribution of peace museums to the interfaith dialogue debate. The development of community peace museums in Kenya, in predominantly Christian communities, and the use of traditional religio-cultural artefacts in peace education and peace building is a case of
interfaith dialogue worth documenting. With religious conflict threatening to tear the fabric of society apart, the question of interfaith dialogue is now paramount in the search for sustainable peace and development.
Andrew Walls and The Missionary Movement in Christian History (1996) Introdu...April Smith
This document summarizes Andrew Walls' seminal work "The Missionary Movement in Christian History" which argues that translation is central to the transmission and survival of Christianity across cultures and time. It discusses two of Walls' main contributions: 1) that Christianity has progressed serially, with new centers emerging as old ones decline; and 2) that translation of the gospel into new cultural contexts is akin to the incarnation, with Christianity constantly being reoriented and expressed through indigenous languages and traditions. While still influential, the work leaves out aspects like Catholicism, Pentecostalism and gender that subsequent scholarship has incorporated to give a more complete picture of world Christianity.
This document provides an overview of African spirituality from a lecture presentation. It discusses why African spirituality should be studied, outlines three approaches to tradition, and addresses common misconceptions. Key aspects of African spirituality covered include its basis in African culture and religion, monotheism centered around a High God, the role of ancestors and community, and ethical values like ubuntu. The document uses examples and concepts from various African cultures and concludes by emphasizing the importance of a holistic worldview for addressing health issues.
This document discusses the authority of sources in theology and biblical scholarship. It argues that sources outside the biblical canon, like the Apocrypha, should not automatically be seen as non-authoritative. It uses hip hop culture as an analogy to the Apocrypha, calling it the "Hiphopcrypha." While distinct from traditional theological sources, hip hop informs and critiques Christian theology while also constructing its own. The paper seeks to evaluate some of the theological sensibilities present in rap music and explore how hip hop can be used as an authoritative resource in theology.
Abnormalities of hormones and inflammatory cytokines in women affected with p...Alexander Decker
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have elevated levels of hormones like luteinizing hormone and testosterone, as well as higher levels of insulin and insulin resistance compared to healthy women. They also have increased levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and leptin. This study found these abnormalities in the hormones and inflammatory cytokines of women with PCOS ages 23-40, indicating that hormone imbalances associated with insulin resistance and elevated inflammatory markers may worsen infertility in women with PCOS.
This document discusses cultural diversity in the US Catholic Church. It defines key terms like culture, diversity, and communication styles. It emphasizes that diversity is important and a characteristic of modern times, bringing challenges and opportunities. The USCCB has made cultural diversity, especially Hispanic ministry, one of its priority goals. The Church must become more expert in diversity to effectively carry out its evangelizing mission in a multicultural world. Food for thought sections discuss how the Church is like a stew pot that adapts different cultures rather than a melting pot that forces assimilation.
REL 4035, Life, Meaning, and Vocation 1 Course Lear.docxaryan532920
REL 4035, Life, Meaning, and Vocation 1
Course Learning Outcomes for Unit I
Upon completion of this unit, students should be able to:
1. Express in writing what makes you a unique individual and what in your life has been character
forming.
2. Evaluate the emphasis American culture puts on the pursuit of happiness.
3. Conceive of meaning as being the deepest desire of our souls.
4. Understand that all human beings are religious beings.
5. Contextualize the place of Ecclesiastes in Biblical literature.
6. Assess the fear of Death and God in the book of Ecclesiastes.
7. Evaluate the value of friendship, a good meal, good, drink, and work.
Reading Assignment
The Bible
Ecclesiastes
When All You've Ever Wanted Isn't Enough: The Search for a Life That Matters
Chapter 1:
Was There Something I Was Supposed to Do with My Life?
Chapter 2:
The Most Dangerous Book in the Bible
Lives that Matter: What We Should Do and Who We Should Be
Composing a Life Story, p. 459-467
Unit Lesson
It could be argued that this course is a quest to fulfill Socrates quote, “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
In this course, you are going to be asked to examine your life to insure that it is worth living. Your first task in
unit one is to write your life story in 500 words or less. This is no small task in itself. The first reading,
“Composing a Life Story” should help you think about how to approach this task.
The first chapter of Kushner’s book asks the question, “What do you want out of life?” Kushner makes the
case that the most common response to this question is something like, “All I want is to be happy.” This
“being happy” idea is even built into our declaration of independence which guarantees us the right to “the
pursuit of…happiness.” The problem is that happiness is not something that can be pursued. Happiness is
always a by-product of some more meaningful activity. Kushner argues in the end that what we really want in
life is meaning—we all want to know that our lives count—that we matter—that the world is better off with us
in it. Kushner ends making the argument that this need for meaning is a religious need. Thus, because we all
have this need, we are all religious.
In Chapter 2, Kushner turns to the Bible for help in seeking meaning in life. There is a strange, little, book in
the Old Testament, Ecclesiastes, in which a man recounts his search for meaning. Kushner writes a nice
introduction to Ecclesiastes and makes the case that it is one of the most dangerous books in the Bible.
UNIT I STUDY GUIDE
Beginning the Search for Identity and
Meaning
REL 4035, Life, Meaning, and Vocation 2
UNIT x STUDY GUIDE
Title
You are then asked to read Ecclesiastes and examine the many ways the author of that book attempted to
find meaning in life. He concludes that life is basically vanity—a vain search for meaning. In the end,
everyone dies and is forgotten. Thus all is vanity. ...
Meanings and the vibrational qualities of jesusEdward DiMaio
The document contains translations and explanations of key Aramaic words from the teachings of Jesus as translated by Neil Douglas-Klotz. It discusses how translating Jesus' words from the original Aramaic provides deeper spiritual and cultural context compared to translations to other languages like Greek or English. Key terms like "God", "heaven", and "spirit" take on new meanings when understood from their Aramaic roots and the cultural context in which Jesus taught. The document advocates embodying these teachings through practices like chanting and body prayer to reconnect with Jesus' original message.
American Research Journal of Humanities & Social Science (ARJHSS) is a double blind peer reviewed, open access journal published by (ARJHSS).
The main objective of ARJHSS is to provide an intellectual platform for the international scholars. ARJHSS aims to promote interdisciplinary studies in Humanities & Social Science and become the leading journal in Humanities & Social Science in the world.
This document provides an introduction to an online Christianity and culture course. It introduces the instructor, Dr. Stan Meyer, and provides some background on his experience. It also outlines some initial course details like contact information for the instructor, expectations around participating in discussions, and a sign-up for students to volunteer to lead devotions. The document serves to welcome students to the course and provide foundational information.
Cross-Cultural Approaches to Adoption by Fiona Bowie (z-lib.org).pdfKorieArsie
This document summarizes a book titled "Cross-Cultural Approaches to Adoption" edited by Fiona Bowie. The book contains chapters from anthropologists around the world examining adoption practices in various cultures. It aims to provide a broader understanding of adoption by demonstrating the range of child-rearing practices across societies and the benefits of appreciating family life from a cross-cultural perspective. The chapters explore topics such as fosterage in Africa, institutionalized adoption in Korea, and the circulation of children in Brazil and Ecuador in the context of international adoption.
The document discusses cultural and ethnic identity from a biblical perspective. It makes three key points:
1. At the beginning and end of Scripture, God intends for humanity to diversify culturally and celebrates this diversity. The Bible shows how cultural identities formed after Noah's flood and will exist in heaven.
2. God honors cultural identity by respecting how people identify themselves. The Bible describes how ethnic identities extended from families and were marked by shared characteristics like language and location.
3. While "race" is a modern concept not in Scripture, the Bible does acknowledge groups with shared ancestry or lineages. In ministry, it is important to understand people's lived experiences with their cultural identities, which are socially constructed
Prior to the advent of foreign cultures and religions such as Christianity and Islam, issues such as teenage pregnancy, abortion and suicide that threaten the dignity of human life were very rare among traditional Akans. Currently, the acute prevalence of these aforementioned issues indicates that the success chalked by traditional Akan ethics with its traditional religious values is eroding. Is it because the traditional Akan ethics, with its strong deontological basis, is now gradually being replaced by the modern western cultural eudaimonistic and utilitarian ethical value systems? This paper explores this fast paradigm shift on the dignity of human life among the Akans in Ghana.
This document contains a message from the Superior General about liturgy and several articles on the topic of liturgy from various Viatorian authors. It also recognizes anniversaries of religious commitments and provides news briefs. The articles discuss liturgy as a constitutive element of the Viatorian charism, the relationship between liturgy and history, how to engage youth in liturgy, and how liturgy can serve as a moment of catechesis. The overall document focuses on reflections from Viatorians on the importance and meaning of liturgy.
American Research Journal of Humanities & Social Science (ARJHSS) is a double blind peer reviewed, open access journal published by (ARJHSS).
The main objective of ARJHSS is to provide an intellectual platform for the international scholars. ARJHSS aims to promote interdisciplinary studies in Humanities & Social Science and become the leading journal in Humanities & Social Science in the world.
The document discusses West African religion and how it relates to rituals and music. Art and music in West Africa are related to religion as art symbolizes ancestors and spirits and is used in rituals. Music is also connected to religion through the use of instruments to create rhythms for dancing in religious ceremonies. The document contrasts Christianity, Islam, and indigenous religions in West Africa, explaining how Christianity and Islam arrived and were adopted in the region.
The current Cultural Shift in North America and their impact on .docxhe45mcurnow
The current Cultural Shift in North America and their impact on how we practice faith in community.
Book review due (4 pages)
Weird Church by Estock/Nixon,
with a focus on how Spiral Dynamics informs the way we frame the Christian faith and create faith communities in the years ahead.
Conversation with the author (students are responsible to come prepared to engage the material. This is one of those times when you probably want to do more than simply skim the book.)
The seven shifts
The variety of futures
Holocracy
Distinctive of the Millennial Generation
“Mainstream” Culture versus the Cultural Enclave
For Denominations
For Evangelicals
For Ethnic-identity churches
For the Children of Immigrants
Where and why Attractional Worship still works
What to do when Attractional Worship no longer works
.
This document provides information about speakers at a conference on intercultural worship that will take place from October 9-12, 2012 in San Jose, California. It includes biographies of several speakers who will discuss topics like pastoral and liturgical vision for intercultural worship, popular religious expressions in the Latinx community, tools for communion in multicultural parishes, Vatican II's impact on liturgy, and the relationship between liturgy and social justice. The document outlines speakers' areas of expertise and experience in liturgy, theology, and ministry.
Rev. Tripp Hudgins is an ordained Baptist minister pursuing a Ph.D. in Liturgical Studies and Ethnomusicology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, CA. His research focuses on Christian liturgy and music. He has over 15 years of experience in ministry, teaching, and writing. Currently he serves as the Director of Admissions at the American Baptist Seminary of the West.
This paper makes a case for further studies on the contribution of peace museums to interfaith dialogue debate. We argue that there is a lacuna in the study on the contribution of peace museums to the interfaith dialogue debate. The development of community peace museums in Kenya, in predominantly Christian communities, and the use of traditional religio-cultural artefacts in peace education and peace building is a case of
interfaith dialogue worth documenting. With religious conflict threatening to tear the fabric of society apart, the question of interfaith dialogue is now paramount in the search for sustainable peace and development.
Andrew Walls and The Missionary Movement in Christian History (1996) Introdu...April Smith
This document summarizes Andrew Walls' seminal work "The Missionary Movement in Christian History" which argues that translation is central to the transmission and survival of Christianity across cultures and time. It discusses two of Walls' main contributions: 1) that Christianity has progressed serially, with new centers emerging as old ones decline; and 2) that translation of the gospel into new cultural contexts is akin to the incarnation, with Christianity constantly being reoriented and expressed through indigenous languages and traditions. While still influential, the work leaves out aspects like Catholicism, Pentecostalism and gender that subsequent scholarship has incorporated to give a more complete picture of world Christianity.
This document provides an overview of African spirituality from a lecture presentation. It discusses why African spirituality should be studied, outlines three approaches to tradition, and addresses common misconceptions. Key aspects of African spirituality covered include its basis in African culture and religion, monotheism centered around a High God, the role of ancestors and community, and ethical values like ubuntu. The document uses examples and concepts from various African cultures and concludes by emphasizing the importance of a holistic worldview for addressing health issues.
This document discusses the authority of sources in theology and biblical scholarship. It argues that sources outside the biblical canon, like the Apocrypha, should not automatically be seen as non-authoritative. It uses hip hop culture as an analogy to the Apocrypha, calling it the "Hiphopcrypha." While distinct from traditional theological sources, hip hop informs and critiques Christian theology while also constructing its own. The paper seeks to evaluate some of the theological sensibilities present in rap music and explore how hip hop can be used as an authoritative resource in theology.
Similar to Oral expression of african christianity in songs and choruses (a case study of african independent churches in calabar nigeria) (20)
Abnormalities of hormones and inflammatory cytokines in women affected with p...Alexander Decker
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have elevated levels of hormones like luteinizing hormone and testosterone, as well as higher levels of insulin and insulin resistance compared to healthy women. They also have increased levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and leptin. This study found these abnormalities in the hormones and inflammatory cytokines of women with PCOS ages 23-40, indicating that hormone imbalances associated with insulin resistance and elevated inflammatory markers may worsen infertility in women with PCOS.
A usability evaluation framework for b2 c e commerce websitesAlexander Decker
This document presents a framework for evaluating the usability of B2C e-commerce websites. It involves user testing methods like usability testing and interviews to identify usability problems in areas like navigation, design, purchasing processes, and customer service. The framework specifies goals for the evaluation, determines which website aspects to evaluate, and identifies target users. It then describes collecting data through user testing and analyzing the results to identify usability problems and suggest improvements.
A universal model for managing the marketing executives in nigerian banksAlexander Decker
This document discusses a study that aimed to synthesize motivation theories into a universal model for managing marketing executives in Nigerian banks. The study was guided by Maslow and McGregor's theories. A sample of 303 marketing executives was used. The results showed that managers will be most effective at motivating marketing executives if they consider individual needs and create challenging but attainable goals. The emerged model suggests managers should provide job satisfaction by tailoring assignments to abilities and monitoring performance with feedback. This addresses confusion faced by Nigerian bank managers in determining effective motivation strategies.
A unique common fixed point theorems in generalized dAlexander Decker
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Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
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Oral expression of african christianity in songs and choruses (a case study of african independent churches in calabar nigeria)
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Oral Expression of African Christianity in Songs and Choruses (A Case Study
of African Independent Churches In Calabar-Nigeria)
EMEKA C. EKEKE
Department of Religious/Cultural Studies, University of Calabar, PMB 1115 Calabar
Cross River State, Nigeria
revekekemekus@yahoo.com
Abstract
In a typical African family, the elders would gather the young people and children around the
fireplace at night and narrate the stories, histories, and events that made them a proud and
memorable people. Through these verbal arts, Africans transmit their beliefs, heritage, values,
and other important information. So among the Africans, these forms of verbal arts are extremely
important and effective means of communication, which have provided the upcoming generations
with wisdom. Therefore, we can conclude that treasures and many opportunities exist in African
oral communication, which can help to present the Gospel message and develop an acculturated
and contextualized African Christianity. This paper focuses on the importance of oral expression
of African Christianity in songs and choruses with special reference to Independent African
Churches in Calabar, Nigeria. It considers some songs and choruses sang in these churches and
present their theological meaning to Christianity in Africa. The paper concludes that songs and
choruses in African Independent Churches in Calabar are not focused on the main theological
themes of the Bible such as new birth, resurrection, the second coming of Christ, righteousness,
holiness, sanctification, eternity in heaven or hell, but about life here on earth free from the
oppression of the powers of witchcraft and other powers such as mermaid spirits that torment
human beings.
Key Words: African Christianity; Independent churches; Oral theology
Introduction
African traditional groups are historically oral societies, where verbal modes of
communication help people to point to what they meant and say what they could not put into
written word. Theirs is a world where sounds carry ideas and images without any other
intermediary in the process of communication. Foley (1988) explains that they picture ideas and
images vividly in their mind’s eyes rather than through letters and written words. This shows that
the world of “orality” is a world of talk (19). One strong underlying factor behind the African
oral custom has to do with the fact that the origins of most of the African tribal groups are
involved in obscurity. As such, the commonly received accounts are for the most part purely
legendary. Kolawole (1999) supports this by saying that many of their languages were unwritten
and all that is known is from traditions carefully handed down through traditional historians, who
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are family members and functioned as historical storage and transmission (21). In a typical
African family, the elders would gather the young people and children around the fireplace at
night and narrate the stories, histories, and events that made them a proud and memorable people.
Through these verbal arts, Africans transmit their beliefs, heritage, values, and other important
information. So among the Africans, these forms of verbal arts are extremely important and
effective means of communication, which have provided the upcoming generations with wisdom.
Therefore, we can conclude that treasures and many opportunities exist in African oral
communication, which can help to present the Gospel message and develop an inculturated and
contextualized African Christianity. This paper focuses on the importance of oral expression of
African Christianity in songs and choruses with special reference to Independent African
Churches in Calabar, Nigeria. It considers some songs and choruses sang in these churches and
present their theological meaning to Christianity in Africa.
Oral Theology in Efik-Ibibio Songs and Choruses among African Independent Churches in
Calabar.
Across Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State, Nigeria in thatch-roofed and
tin-roofed and large buildings are where Christians under the auspices of African Independent
Churches sing and worship their God. A song may challenge the men, then the women, the
young people, the preachers, a different target in each verse, with the same theme. The music is
not written down; it is memorized except few hymns. Rhythms and volume are important. No one
is paid; everyone is a volunteer. This is a living, local tradition.
The songs are not mere entertainment, even though the singers clearly enjoy themselves.
The most common introduction to the time for singing in Efik-speaking African Independent
churches during weekly worship is that this is the “ini ikwo ikwo itoro ino Abasi”, “a time to sing
praises unto God”. Comments and prayers in response afterwards routinely use the same kind of
language: these songs speak the word of God to his people just as much as when a senior church
leader reads a passage from the Bible and speaks on it. Routinely, one quarter of the time in a
worship service is spent by the singing groups, and often substantially more than the time taken
by the spoken sermon. On special occasions, when Christians from half a dozen local
congregations gather in one place, time for this singing takes an even larger proportion. (Foster,
1988: 2)
The local songs are in fact oral theology. Laryea (2002) writes of “the many ordinary
Christians whose reflections on the gospel can be discerned in their prayers, songs, testimonies,
thank offerings and sermons. They are the ones who are now beginning to set for us the
parameters and framework for doing theology in a new key” (35; cf. Tshehla, 2002: 17).
Similarly, Bediako (1998) argues that “academic theological discourse will need to connect with
the less academic but fundamental reality of the ‘implicit’ and predominantly oral theologies
found at the grassroots of many, if not all, African Christian communities” (64-5). As Christians
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of Independent African churches speak to each other in their songs, they reveal their
understandings of God and his revelation. That understanding is then the starting point for any
further reflections on both their own context and the inspired text in which God speaks. This is
theology understood as a “hermeneutical spiral” (Osborne, 1991: 6; cf. Shaw, 2003: 23) between
text and context.
This paper presents one model for studying oral theology. It summarizes key themes in
the author's collection of songs from Efik-Ibibio speaking Independent African churches in
Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. They are traditionally matrilineal and politically
decentralized, but today exhibit all the variety and complexity of a people who have experienced
the traumas of harsh colonialism in the world. Since then, the relentless forces of urbanization
and globalization are leaving their mark. Amid all these changes, the Christian message has had a
huge impact, so that now most Efik-Ibibio speakers would claim to belong to a church even
though they still maintain their traditional cultural dances such as Ekpe which has become an
international festival during the Calabar carnival in December every year.
It is important to note several limitations of the approach taken in this paper. It focuses
on public words, not private action. Everywhere in the world those are very distinct spheres, and
the links between them can be hard to trace. The songs from five different African independent
denominations namely Mount Zion Full Gospel Church, Mount Zion Lighthouse Full Gospel
Church, God the Host Deliverance Prayer Temple, Emmanuel Deliverance Ministry and
Deliverance Tower of Jehovah are representative, but not in any statistically precise,
random-sample way. These songs and choruses shall be examined based on the theological
themes they express. They reflect the author's exposure and experience. Conclusions are
suggestive and subject to corroboration and correction by other study approaches.
Theological Themes Expressed in Efik-Ibibio Songs and Choruses in African Independent
Churches.
The most prominent themes in these songs are judgment and revenge, deliverance, the return of
Christ, God’s protection, repentance, sins, death and the resurrection. These Efik-Ibibio
Christians repeatedly remind each other of their protection by God, while living fragile lives in an
uncertain, dangerous world.
a). Theme of Judgment and Revenge. Song after song says this in different ways.
Places, people and events from the Old Testament are not particularly prominent. They present
these songs and choruses as showing that God will judge their enemies which may not
necessarily be Satan but any human being who may serve as an opposition to their progress in
life. Such songs are here presented:
Ererimbot edikop mi,
Council emaebono k’ikpe
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Obong ono uyo ete eyak unen owo
Eno me andinyene.
This song is interpreted to mean,
Let the world hear
That council has assembled in judgment
The Lord declares that ones right should be given
To the rightful owner.
This song and others like it shows that members of this Christian organization believe that
whether on this earth or in heaven there is going to be judgment where people’s right which was
taken by others will be restored by the declaration of the word of God.
Another song which portrays God as a God of revenge is:
Sio usiene nno
Ubok asana Ete, sio usiene nno.
Interpreted as
Revenge my enemies for me
Father with clean hands
Revenge my enemies for me.
These types of songs are so many among this group. They see God as a God that could fight and
avenge their enemies whether real or perceived.
Though many New Testament theologians today may question this view of this group
regarding revenge and judgment of their enemies when Jesus Christ said “Love your enemies and
pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Farther in heaven…” (Matthew
5: 44-45 NIV), but a clearer understanding of their theology will reveal that they are not waiting
for the final judgment before God will revenge their enemies. They seek for God’s revenge and
judgment here and now. This theology may look like Liberation theology that seeks deliverance
from enemies here and now. The theme of judgment is found in at least 28% of the collected
songs. The dominant tone is one of revenge and punishment on their enemies. Judgment is often
seen as a hope for vindication, a reassurance that God will put right all that is wrong.
b). Theme of Christ’s Victory over Satan: This theme is among the second most
prominent theme in these songs. This is a keynote theme that spread throughout the Bible. The
Christian faith stands or falls based on this theme. But the theology of this group has a deferent
explanation to this theme with a careful study of the songs and choruses that portrays it. Some of
the Songs that portray this theme include:
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Satan otop, Obong otop,
Ubok akan ubok, Satan akanaa k’isong osiomkpo,
Obong akan o!
This is interpreted as:
Satan throws a blow; The Lord (Christ) throws a blow,
Hand is stronger than hand; Satan fell on the ground and shouted,
The Lord (Christ) has overcome O!
In this song, Satan is depicted as throwing punches on Christ in a battle or contest, which Christ
retaliated with a stronger punch and Satan, fell on the ground and shouted “The Lord has
overcome o!”
Another song that also portrays Christ as a victor over Satan is:
Akan enye o, Akan enye
Satan akanwan ekong
Jesus akan enye o
Interpreted as:
He overcome him, He overcome him
Satan fought war but
Jesus overcame him
The war depicted in this song is supposed to be the battle fought on the cross against Satan which
is written in Colossians 2: 14-15
Having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us
and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. And
having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of
them, triumphing over them by the cross (NIV)
According to Pastor Monday Umoh of Emmanuel Deliverance Ministry in Calabar the
victory depicted in this song is not only of Christ victory over Satan on the cross but Christ
victory over their enemies which includes witches and wizards who perpetrate evil against them.
c). Themes of Divine Protection: The African Independent Churches in Calabar have
many songs that show God’s protection to them. Deaconess Titi Eno explains that these songs
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show their fear of shame and reproach which may come as a result of attack by forces of darkness
or witches and wizards. Some of these songs include:
Obong kuyak ami ndi owo oro (3x)
Ererimbot ekamade enim nkpo nsakimam.
This song is interpreted as:
Lord may I not be someone (3x)
Whom the world makes an object of scorn and reproach.
This song reveals the fear being shown by members of these Christian organizations. They sing
of God protecting them from being object of scorn. This scorn expressed in this song is not
eternal scorn of being thrown into the lake of fire as written in the Bible “Then death and Hades
were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. If anyone’s name was not
found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev. 20: 14-15 NIV), but a
materialistic shame and disgrace which comes as a result of witchcraft attach on an individual in
the form of lack of children, poverty, sickness and dying early without accomplishing anything in
life.
Another song which conveys almost the same meaning above is:
Obong kuyak ami ndi owo oro (3x)
Mmen owo nwut usung,
Ntuaknda nta nkarafang
This means:
Lord let me not be someone (3x)
Who shows others road
Then I standstill and rust
African Independent Churches in Calabar sings this song to express the fact that they should not
help others to progress but standstill in their own life journey. The theology behind this song
could be seen as meaning that while they help others, God should also help them to progress in
their life’s journey. Another song which further reveals and expresses the oral theology of this
group is:
Me mmo ekpe wak akan mi O
Obong k’uyak mmo enyene unen
K’idem mi O
This is interpreted as:
Even if they are more than me in number
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Lord may they not have right over me.
Deacon Ubong Udoh of Mount Zion Full Gospel Church, Calabar explains that God’s protection
keeps them from the hands of the enemy. They therefore pray and sing about this protection
despite the number of enemies that confront them anywhere, they hope and trust God for victory.
d). Theme of God’s Miracles and Testimonies: The songs under this theme are so many
because it shows their joy and celebration of God’s power in their lives. In this paper we shall
consider only a few of them:
Ekondo edikop mi
Nyeda Obong mi mbure mbure O
Ami nyeda Obong mi nta ese k’anwa.
This song is interpreted as:
Everybody come and hear
I will boast with my Lord (Jesus)
I will testify of his greatness in the public.
In this song or chorus, the theme of boast of God’s greatness is expressed. This boasting is as a
result of one miracle, healing or deliverance God gives them. Furthermore, they sing asking God
to give them testimony either in deliverance from one witchcraft attack or healing from one
sickness or the other.
Obong no mi ikot ntiense
Ererimbot oyom iko ntiense (2x)
This song means:
Lord give me testimony,
The world needs testimony (2x)
Another song that belongs to this theme is
Inyang baghare yak’mi mbe inyang,
Baghare yak’mi mbe, Inyang ufok ete yak’mi mbe, Inyang
Baghare yak’mi mbe Inyang ufok ika yak mi mbe, Inyang
This is interpreted as:
Seas open for me to cross
Sea from father’s house open for me to cross
Sea from mother’s house open for me to cross.
The theme expressed in this song is that of the Red Sea which stood on the way of the Israelites’
deliverance from Egypt. But suddenly God intervened for them causing the sea to open “…and
all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land.
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The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of
water on their right and on their left” (Exodus 14: 21, 22 NIV). These Christians see this miracle
as needed to be replicated in their families where various powers of witches and wizards are
standing as hindrances to their passing into their earthly promised land which includes divine
health, financial prosperity and success in life’s endeavors.
Appraisal of These Songs and Choruses Sang in African Independent Churches
Besides listing their most prominent themes, another way to analyze these songs is to look
for their underlying narrative. Narrative is a fundamental component of worldview. Missiologist
Steffen (1998) argues that “symbol-based narrative (story) serves as the primal foundation of
worldview and social structure” (477). Facts and symbols only ‘make sense’ when placed, either
implicitly or explicitly, within a narrative (480). Similarly, cultural anthropologist Bohannan
(1995) declares: “People live by stories—they use stories to organize and store cultural
traditions” (150). New Testament scholar Wright (1992) contends that “worldviews are at the
deepest level shorthand formulae to express stories” (77). Narrative is basic to human life, not a
substitute for some more abstract ‘real thing’ (38; cf. Carson, 1996: 193-314, Satterthwaite, 1997:
125).
There is no established methodology for distilling a narrative from a body of songs, so
that any attempt is merely suggestive. It develops from noting recurrent, strong contrasts both
between the present and the future, and this world below and God's world above. It also tries to
incorporate the themes already noted.
Another factor to be included when articulating the underlying narrative of these songs is
a double contrast: insiders with outsiders, and group with individuals. The group is much more
prominent than the individual. It is not some individual self that stands out against all others.
Rather the self blends in to a group where it belongs. The individual’s obligation is to fit in,
particularly by the appropriate behavior that marks the insider group. The group is more defined
by this behavior than it is by opposition to other, outsider groups (Foster, 2005: 8).
It should also be noted that this underlying narrative in the Efik-Ibibio songs does not
clearly envision a mission on earth besides escape. Biblical themes of evangelism,
transformation, new creation and resurrection are neglected. But the emphasis is far from escapist
or passive. There is a relentless challenge to human effort, more vigorous than God’s activity.
People remind themselves, repeatedly, that there are strong forces attacking them in the world
which they must be delivered from. These forces are seen as the forces of witchcrafts. The
salvation which they sing about is from these evil powers and not from sin. The journey to
heaven is fraught with deep uncertainty. People do not know when their journey will end. In their
worship songs they concentrate more on earthly blessings than eternal blessings that come from
new birth in Christ which is completely absent from their oral theology. Morality in the society is
not their focus but victory over enemies that fight against them.
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ISSN 2224-5766(Paper) ISSN 2225-0484(Online)
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Conclusion
This paper has explained some of the various theological themes expressed in the songs
and choruses of some African Independent Churches popularly called Christian Spiritual
Churches or Christian Prayer Churches of Efik-Ibibio speakers in Calabar, Cross River State,
Nigeria. It has shown that these songs as presented are representative in nature and not a
systematic random sampling kind of presentation. Since these churches emphasize more on
deliverance and healing, their songs seem to tilt towards overcoming forces of darkness and
witchcraft powers. We therefore conclude this paper by saying that songs and choruses in African
Independent Churches in Calabar are not about the main theological themes of the Bible such as
new birth, resurrection, the second coming of Christ, righteousness, holiness, sanctification,
eternity in heaven or hell, but about life here on earth free from the oppression of the powers of
witchcraft and other powers such as mermaid spirits that torment human beings.
References
Primary Sources
Name Occupation Age Date & Time of Interview Place of
Interview
Pastor Monday Umoh Clergy 52 Sunday 14 August, 2011 Calabar
2.35PM
Deacon Ubong Udoh Civil 45 Sunday 14 August, 2011 Calabar
Servant 4.20PM
Deaconess Titi Eno Fashion 40 Sunday 21 August, 2011 Calabar
Designer 3.30PM
162
10. Research on Humanities and Social Sciences www.iiste.org
ISSN 2224-5766(Paper) ISSN 2225-0484(Online)
Vol.2, No.6, 2012
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