| dc.description.abstract | There is scanty scholarly evidence showing whether persons living with disability
(PLWDs) are fully included in Church leadership and involved in Church activities or
not. The purpose of this study was to analyze the role charismatic Churches play
towards initiating inclusivity for persons living with disability in Kakamega County.
The main objectives were to determine the characteristics of people with special needs
in charismatic Churches, to examine congregants, leadership attitudes and suitability of
charismatic Churches towards people with special needs and finally to investigate
challenges and mitigating measures for persons living with disability attending
charismatic Churches in Kakamega County. The study was guided by functionalism
theory by Emile Durkheim. The study adopted descriptive research design and used
qualitative approach. The target population included the clergy, PLWDs, Church
ushers, Church elders, family members of the people with special needs and the
members of the Church. Purposive sampling and snowballing were used to collect both
primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected using Interview guides
administered to the key informants whereas journals and other relevant sources
provided secondary data. Four FGDs were also conducted. Data was analysed through
content analysis. The findings of the study revealed that persons living with disabilities
in charismatic Churches encompass a wide range of conditions, from physical and
sensory disabilities to cognitive and mental health disorders. The use and interpretation
of biblical texts that relate to disability provide links to how disability is treated in the
charismatic Churches in Kakamega County and many Churches lack ramps, elevators,
and accessible entrances, making it difficult for individuals with mobility impairments
to access worship areas and other facilities. The study concluded that the characteristics
of people living with disabilities portray faith, resilience, and unwavering dedication to
their spiritual journey. Also, the suitability of charismatic Churches toward persons
living with disabilities holds profound implications for the inclusivity, acceptance, and
growth of the faith community. The study recommended the need to provide training
sessions for Church leaders, volunteers, and members on disability awareness,
sensitivity, and inclusivity. Moreover, disabled people should be invited to facilitate
spiritual and professional functions such as preaching, teachings, and conducting
disability awareness seminars, which would be relevant for them. And Churches should
sponsor pastors, disabled people and their members of the families to various disability
awareness seminars such as education, employment and healthcare, which are
conducted by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK). | en_US |
