A historical survey of clerical participation in community transformation : case studies of three churches in the Gauteng province, South Africa

Abstract

This research explores the extent to which the clergy are involved in community transformation, particularly in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Case studies were used to solicit information from three churches through one-on-one interviews with senior leaders and members of the congregations. Unfortunately, one church declined to be interviewed, leaving two churches to be investigated. One church is in Glen Marais, Kempton Park and the other in Brixton, Johannesburg. The objectives of this research are to map-out some ideas as to how churches may be involved in eradicating poverty, identify ways in which churches can empower the community with skills training for self-reliance and development; and to suggest ways in which churches can contribute towards the establishment of a just, stable and prosperous society. Data collected from these churches were broken-down into themes and analysed. Thematic analysis was applied to analyse data; the data were coded and broken down into themes; the components of which were studied and analysed to make sense of the themes. The study revealed that congregations were involved in community transformation in ways they were able to. The fact is that poverty, unemployment, and inequality continue to increase in society despite a concerted effort by congregations. A model of social transformation was constructed based on research findings to suggest the role churches should play to deliver effective change in society. The research concludes with recommendations for an integrated approach to community transformation including churches, state, business and non-governmental organisations.