EVANGELIZATION AS A TOOL FOR FORMIDABLE SOCIO-CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC REVIVAL IN IGBO LAND

Abstract

This study was prompted by the authors’ interest on the need for adequate security, economic recovery and cultural renaissance in Igbo land. The purpose is to see how the existence of Christian religion in the region given its population density can act as a catalyst for providing these needs. The method adopted in the study is the qualitative research method. It was observed that the Igbo are deeply religious people and that it will not be difficult to co-opt them into various forms of synergic actions that can reposition any sector of their concern if Christian leaders can offer proper direction and encouragement in pursuance of the objectives. It was also observed that the subjects of economy and culture have commonly remained outside the purview of Christian discussion as what mattered up until now in the churches was more of the salvation of spiritual souls than the temporal welfare of the human person. However, as religion is better understood today, it can also be a means of addressing human temporal needs. What it means is that we need to see the nexus between evangelization and these temporal matters. That is why priests/pastors in Igbo land need to be trained to understand that theirs is not only to pray, build churches and utter prophecies. Since they command a lot of followers in our society, they can and should embark on economically and culturally boasting programs in order to revive and reposition these sectors for better. Once economic challenges are reduced, it will effect positively in the area of security. Hence, the understanding of the church as a museum will need to be balanced with the idea of church laboratory; bringing in creativity, industry and responsible stewardship.