ANGLICAN CHURCH OF KENYA MOTHERS' UNION AND FAMILY LIFE: A CASE OF ST THOMAS PARISH IN KILIFI COUNTY

Abstract

Purpose: The study sets out to determine the contribution of the Anglican Church of Kenya Mothers Union (MU) on women, in developing family life at St. Thomas parish in Kilifi County.

Methodology: The researcher employed a descriptive survey. The study targeted 40 members of the Mothers' Union (MU), five members of the clergy and five lay leaders. The selection of these categories of the participants was based on their ability to contribute to the understanding of the phenomenon under study. The study acquired data from both primary and secondary sources. Secondary data involved critical reading of published materials such as; newspapers, journal articles and church magazines. Primary data was collected through questionnaires distributed to 40 members of the Mothers' Union (MU) as well as oral interviews with key informants. These were complimented by focus group discussions (FGDs) that involved participatory observations of the Mothers activities.

Results: The study argued that, the role of women ministry in the Church is limited to service delivery where they engage in worship, and prayers for families and the clergy. In addition, they also participate in the cleaning of the church and occasionally offering food and drinks to guests in the Church. Hospitality expressed by MU is a symbol of worship. This study also established that women involved themselves in most church activities due to their huge membership. However, majority continue to hold minimal responsibilities in the administrative decision-making process of the Church.  On the other hand, the Mothers' Union (MU) is also regarded as a social organization due to its support systems to the vulnerable people in the society such as the elderly.

Unique contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends for mutual harmony and cooperation within the church. The church should acknowledge and favor the proper and necessary participation of women in the cultural life of the society.