LE3 .A278 2017

2017

King, Gordon

Acadia University

Doctor of Ministry

D.Min.

Ministry

Acadia Divinity College

The purpose of this study is to understand the influence of culture on Christian denominational leadership and governance in East Africa, with a particular focus on the Association d’Églises Baptistes aux Rwanda(AEBR).The study begins by creating a theology of leadershipthat isbased on Creation and the imago Dei. This theology is informed by Jesus’ teaching concerning humility and servant leadership. The study then considers the development of contextual theology in Africa, and specifically, inculturation theology. Using the traditional Bantu concepts of hierarchy and the sacral role of leaders, ecclesiastical leadership is considered by exploring representative theologians from various denominational traditions. The relationship between sacral leadership and ecclesiastical authoritarianism is examined and critiqued. African political leadership is also considered from the perspective of sacralisation, patronage, ‘big man’ politics, and the legacy of the colonial nation-state. Good governance and strengthening democracy are considered and critiqued. This is followed by a cultural analysis of Canada and East Africa, using Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions. Four classifications of organizational culture are considered. Finally, the research project utilizes thematic narrative analysis to engage respondents in reflecting upon the impact of culture on the executive leaders of the AEBR. Respondents confirm a number of expected findings concerning authoritarianism and avoidance of accountability. However, the changing character of Rwanda’s social context generated some reasons for optimism, with respect to leadership and governance in Rwanda and the AEBR.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2143