Church Proliferation and Social Vices: A Study of Churches in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, 2010-2023
Abstract
The proliferation of churches in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, between 2010 and 2023 and a notable increase in social vices, prompting a critical investigation into the relationship between these two phenomena. This research addresses the problem of understanding whether the rapid growth of churches has had an impact on the prevalence of social vices or if it reflects broader socio-economic factors at play in the city. The Church Growth theory, which explores the dynamics of church expansion and its implications for society, serves as the theoretical framework for this study. The study was guided by two key research objectives and two research questions were posed to guide the study. A secondary method of data collection was employed, drawing on existing literature, reports, and media content to provide a comprehensive analysis of the situation. The study's findings reveal a complex relationship between church growth and social vices. While some churches have actively contributed to community development and moral education, others have been criticized for their commercialization and lack of social responsibility, which may have inadvertently exacerbated social issues. The study recommends that churches should enhance their social responsibility initiatives and collaborate with local authorities to address the root causes of social vices. Additionally, there should be stricter regulation of church activities to ensure that they contribute positively to societal well-being rather than merely proliferating without regard for their impact on the community.
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