Scholars Bulletin (SB)
Volume-4 | Issue-09 | Scholars Bulletin, 2018; 4(9):777-780
Research Article
Challenges of the Contemporary Church Traditions to Single Mothers: A Case of ACK Subukia Archdeaconry in Nakuru in Kenya Elizabeth W. Murathi
Elizabeth W. Murathi
Published : Sept. 30, 2018
Abstract
This paper is based on the observation that there is tension between single mothers and the Anglican Church of Kenya (A.C.K), Nakuru Diocese, Subukia Archdeaconry. In the Subukia A.C.K Archdeaconry, there is a tendency to regard single mothers (who are perceived as having broken the church norms) as sinners. This perception has existed for a long period. As a result single mothers have been excluded from the full life of the church. They are barred from partaking Eucharist and denied infant baptism (sacraments). They are also not allowed to take any leadership position and excluded from the church ministry hence they feel alienated from God. By contrast, there are other A.C.K Churches where single mothers are accepted, partake Eucharist and their infants are baptized. They are permitted to take any leadership position and are included in the full life of the church. This has prompted the question of whether the A.C.K has changed its administration since it is known to have uniformity in discharging its mandate. This contribution was based on theological and constitutional survey geared towards accommodating single mothers and curbing their increase in the church. At the same time, the church advocates marriage to be the ideal and Biblical way where children should be born. The paper offers a balance in which single mothers and the church coexist without compromising the dignity and discipline of the church.