Masters Degrees (Practical Theology and Missiology)

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Challenges of disintergrating family life to youth ministry : a practical theological investigation
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012-12) Makinwa, Akinlolu; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The family as an indispensable social institution meant to serve as the first place of socialization, nurture and spiritual training ground for young people is disintegrating. The signs for disintegrating family life are evident and supported by statistics of high rates of divorce, domestic abuse and violence, juvenile delinquency caused by a lack of genuine nurturing of youth and unresolved family conflicts between husband and wife as well as between parents and children. This has become a global issue. This study therefore investigates the challenges of disintegrating family life to youth ministry from a global perspective by studying materials on global families and youth ministry. The aim of the study is to gain a conceptual understanding of the family, to identify the challenges contemporary families are currently facing, and to find ways in which youth ministry, with the help of young people, can respond to the challenges posed by disintegrating family life to their lives and thereby contribute to the reintegration of their present families while laying a good foundation for their future family for the glory of God and benefit of humanity. Since the family and youth are inseparable, the research studies the context of the disintegrating family, identifies causes and consequences of disintegrating family life as well as the challenges posed by disintegrating family life for youth ministry. Osmer‟s four practical theology questions are used to design this study. These are: what is going on, why is this going on, what ought to be going on, and how might we respond In light of the increase in family disintegration, the main research question is: What are the challenges of disintegrating family life to Youth Ministry? The aims of youth ministry are taken as the norm and these are: effective evangelism; comprehensive education that includes Christian education; financial education; health education; marriage and family life education, as well as pastoral care. The study argues that young people converted to Christ, taught and exposed to pastoral care can be active agents of change in their immediate and future family and thus becomes active agents of change in society. However, with millions of orphans, youth in refugee camps, children affected by divorce, and youth in child-headed families, can youth workers cope with the present and future challenges of disintegrating family life to youth ministry? The study proposed the God-bearing, relational and family-based-youth-ministry approach because the three approaches are deemed to be the most appropriate to enable youth ministry to deal with the challenges. Marriage and family life education is highly recommended as a prerequisite for contemporary evangelised and educated young people. This is to serve, firstly, as a reactive measure to help their immediate disintegrating family and secondly, to serve as a proactive measure to lay a solid foundation for the future family of contemporary youth. This, I hope, will be used by God to help curtail the vicious cycle of the disintegrating family life phenomenon and also bring relief to troubled youths, family and society.
Die gebruik van facebook as bedieningsmedium in verhoudingsgerigte jeugbediening
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-03) Botes, Johan; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Technology plays such an important role in the lives of today’s youth, that the use of technology causes existential change in their lives and even challenges the way we understand and define church. The existential changes that will be referred to in this study refers to the influence the use of technology has on all aspects of the users life; the forming of identity as Christian, interaction with people in and outside their social grouping, in and outside congregations, online and offline, the way youth gets involved in world events and the use of material things. Throughout this study it should be evident that the use of social media must be seen as a necessity for effective communication in youth ministry. Not only should the use of social media be a part of youth ministry, but the effect it has on youth should also be noted. This study will, with the previous information in mind, develop a better understanding of how Facebook is used by youth workers to promote relational youth ministry. The research question can thus be put as follow: How can the use of Facebook make a contribution to relational youth ministry? With the goal and background of this study in mind, different chapters will be dedicated to the different goal settings for this study, like they are listed on page 3, namely: Discussion of the theological essence of this study (chapter 2), discussion of the theological grounding of relational youth ministry (chapter 3), the determining of the prominence of relationships during the phase of adolescence (chapter 4), the determining of the role of social media on the lives of adolescents (chapter 5), description of the research methodology of the study (chapter 6) and the determining of the impact the use of Facebook has on relationships in youth ministry (chapter 7). Chapter 8 concludes this study with final remarks on the findings of this research, for example: Adolescents does not use Facebook like expected, but Facebook still provides youth workers the potential to form and maintain relationships. Suggestions is also made in this last chapter for example: congregations should reevaluate the audience of their Facebook communication and also that certain other social media platforms should be used in synergy with Facebook for more effective communication with adolescents in creating, maintaining and enhancing relationships.
'n Evaleuring van die jeugbediening in die Nkhoma sinode : 'n praktiese teologiese ondersoek
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014-12) Veitch, James Blacklaw; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: In this dissertation the Youth ministry of the Nkhoma Synod Church of Central Africa Presbyterian from 1889-2010 is discussed. The manuscript strives to determine the theological foundation of the Youth ministry by answering the question; “What has been the theological foundation of the Nkhoma synod Youth ministry from 1889 to 2010?” To answer this question the researcher has indicated what programs have been arranged for the Youth and with the Youth and has indicated as far as possible how this was done. The researcher continued his research by determining why the programs were implemented in that specific manner to determine the motivation for the implementation of the program. The researcher presents a historical overview of the development of the Youth ministry in this manuscript from which the theological foundation of the Nkhoma synod Youth ministry will be determined. Chapter One gives a brief summary of the development of the Youth ministry in the Nkhoma synod as a background against which the researcher motivates the research and describes the research question. Chapter Two describes the research methodology, methods of data collection and data analysis, the ethical aspects of the research and the manner of pretesting that was used during the research. Chapter Three presents an overview of the geographical, socio-cultural and historic-political environment to describe the context within which the Youth ministry of the Nkhoma synod developed. The description of the above developments enables the reader to understand the framework within which the Youth ministry of the Nkhoma synod developed. Chapter Four presents an overview of the establishment and development of the Nkhoma synod with regard to the school system. It continues to describe the government’s increased influence and takeover of the school system and the accompanying developments that took place due to the above-mentioned removal of the school system from the Nkhoma synod. Chapter Five describes the development of the youth ministry with regard to the activities and programs run within the Church structures of the Nkhoma synod. It includes the development of a Family ministry, Christian Education and Church Youth movements. Chapter Six briefly states the theological foundation of the Nkhoma synod and and proceeds to explain how the theological foundation of the Youth ministry of the Nkhoma synod was determined. It describes five theological terms, eight modes of ministry and four approaches to ministry, that are used to determine the theological foundation of the Youth ministry as described in chapters Four and Five In Chapter Seven the semi-structured interviews are analysed to identify recurring themes and possible discrepancies that might surface. The literature study, as found in chapters Four and Five, is analysed using a thematic content analyses, with reference to the modes and approaches to ministry as discussed in chapter Six. It is affirmed that the theological foundation of the Youth ministry is based upon the Word of God and the Catechism of Heidelberg and that the approach to ministry is preparatory and evangelical. In Chapter Eight the whole dissertation is summarized, conclusions are drawn and possible recommendations are made with the aim of improving the present Youth ministry. The researcher also identifies possible areas for future studies.
'n Ondersoek na die benutting van 'n ontwikkelingbatesraamwerk vir 'n volhoubare kinderbediening
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013-03) Fransman, Viola Jo-Anne; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Grobbelaar, Jan; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study attempts to contribute to search for a more ministry appropriate framework that will cause children’s ministry to be more holistic and sustainable. It explores the 40 Developmental Asset framework of the Search Institute for more sustainable children’s ministry. The research question has been formulated as follows: Can the 40 Developmental Asset framework contribute to a more sustainable Children’s ministry.? The purpose of the study is to: • Firstly try and determine what contribution this framework can make to sustainable children’s minsitry. • Secondly make children’s workers more aware of the good ministry practices outside their context and paradigm and to give guidelines of the use of such pracitce. • Thirdly to contribute to more academic thought and discussion about children’s ministry in a South African context. In chapter one the research problem is defined and the research methodology discussed. Chapter two pays attention to certain challenges for children’s ministry in a South African context after which discussions about factors that influences children’s ministry, follows. A discussion about current ministry models and metaphors for children’s ministry is also done. The conclusion of this exploration is that these ministry models mainly accommodate children in one context, namely the church and largely ignores the other contexts of children’s lives. These contexts include their home, school, friends and the larger community of which they are part of and therefore does not accommodate children’s ministry in a holistic sustainable manner. In chapter three a more detailed discussion of the asset framework and its potential for sustainable ministry follows. The current age we live in urges the church to return to her missional calling by attempting to reach out to children that is not part of the church, meaning it should attempt to be more inclusive in its ministry efforts to children. Chapter four describes the research methodology followed in this study and discusses the themes identified in the interpretation of the data derived from the research. In chapter five conclusions based on the research are made. These conclusions include that • More academic research about children’s minsitry is needed; • Children’s ministry is and inclusive ministry; • Contextualization of the asset framework is possible; • The responsibillities to build assets in children is everyone’s responsibillity; • That a more appreciative attitude towards children should be cultvated and practiced; The conclusion of the study is that the 40 Developmental Asset framework should be considered as a possible framework for more sustainable ministry. The reason being that it accomodates all the contexts of children’s lives and is thus more inclusive of contexts and the addresses the whole being of children.
'n Ondersoek na die waarde van liggaamsteologie om 'n inklusiewe verstaan van seksualiteit te bevorder tydens adolessensie
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-12) Botes, Liesel; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study examines the value that body theology can add to an inclusive understanding of sexuality in adolescence. Sexuality was understood differently throughout different periods in time, but even today there is still no real clarity on what is meant by the term sexuality. Sexuality is a difficult term to define and its meaning plays an important role in the way people treat each other. Throughout the different periods the church has largely been either silent about sexuality or considered it a sin. As a result the church would not necessarily be seen as a good resource for advice on sexual matters. Adolescents go through a dramatic period of developing on a physical, cognitive and moral level, which all occur simultaneously, but sexual development is the most prominent. Sexual development prepares adolescents on a physical level to reproduce and to enter into sexual relationships, but cognitive and moral development also takes place; these two processes are supportive for the adolescent to understand and process the sexual development. These developing processes, together with the context in which an adolescent is growing up, has an impact on the type of moral value system compiled by adolescents, which determines how they behave. As already mentioned, the church is not necessarily involved in these discussions, and therefore this study challenges the churches to become involved again by making use of body theology. The research question can be formulated as follows: What contribution can body theology make to promote an inclusive understanding of sexuality during adolescence? To answer the research question, the first objective is discussed in chapter 2, namely to give a historical overview to obtain an understanding of sexuality and see how the understanding of sexuality changed over the different periods, but also to see that there were certain times when the understanding of sexuality was the same. The second objective is discussed in chapter 3, where the focus is on a historical overview of the understanding of the body. This historical overview is discussed to understand that the body often stood in an ambiguous position and dualisms formed part of the understanding of the body, but it also affects a deeper understanding of life. In chapter 4, the third objective is discussed by examining the centrality of sexual development during adolescence to understand the important role that sexual development plays in the adolescent's life, but also to realise that it affects other aspects of life. The fourth objective is discussed in chapter 5, which contains the discussion of body theology to indicate how it can promote an inclusive understanding of sexuality. This chapter also discusses how body theology developed and the importance of the body in body theology. Chapter 6 includes conclusions and recommendations, such as that youth workers and church leaders need to recognise their own understanding of sexuality and the body, but that body theology can promote an inclusive understanding of sexuality if youth workers and church leaders are able to make a theological shift and use body theology as a theological lens.
Sekshandel en die menswaardigheid van jeugslagoffers
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2014-12) Fourie, Tina; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The main theme of this thesis deals with young victims in sex trafficking who end up with serious emotional consequences during their developing years. The young victim trapped in the sex trade, has to deal with problems that other youths who are not in these situations do not face. Sex trafficking is a phenomenal problem world-wide. Literature study shows that up to 50% of victims are juveniles. Chapter 1 is an overview of this problem, while chapter 2 defines the conceptual understanding of slavery, human trafficking and prostitution. These concepts are then applied to sex trafficking. The agreements are also highlighted and then the causes and consequences of sex trafficking are discussed. Chapter 3 focuses on the discussion of the development of adolescent sexuality, including a reference to the development of the youth’s identity. The effect on the sex trade victims is shown by the victims’ stories. This is particularly relevant to the developmental phases of the adolescent when he/she is still trying to find out who they are and where they fit in, in life. After hearing these stories, there is a factor which cannot be denied. This factor is that trauma is a part of a victim’s life even after he/she is saved. This should be addressed in various ways for any healing to take place. Chapter 4 emphasises human dignity and sex trafficking. The researcher also seeks to provide a theological perspective of this problem. Therefore, a theological response to human dignity is offered. Chapter 5 focuses on human rights with regard to human dignity. President Zuma signed a new law in 2013 that focuses on combating trafficking specifically. The rights of the adolescent are emphasised. Recent events in Africa, where adolescent girls were kidnapped from their hostel by soldiers, are highlighted. An outcry, “Bring back our girls”, from the general public and the political arena arose from this incident. This research has shown the impact of sex trafficking, not only on the victim, but also on families, friends, churches, communities and governments. The quest for peace, hope, equality and human dignity in the context of sex trafficking is highlighted. Based on the literature review and findings, the researcher makes some conclusions and recommendations in chapter 6. Following the recommendations, it should be the objective of governments, communities, churches, families and friends to take action and get actively involved to combat sex trafficking that destroys youths’ lives.
Spiritual nurturing of children living in the context of poverty, with specific reference to the role of the Christian children's worker.
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2011-12) Mathewson, Susanna Elizabeth; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Grobbelaar, Jan; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this research was to identify the role of the Christian children’s worker in the spiritual nurturing of children living in the context of poverty. The nurturing of about twelve million poverty-stricken children in South Africa is an overwhelming task. This is especially true when these Christian children’s workers are an unrecognised force and unsure what such nurturing entails. Unintentionally children could be harmed by hurtful actions. This research is placed within the field of Practical Theology and has been undertaken from a Christian spiritual perspective. The thesis is designed as a literature study and utilised Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems approach as a lens in the research. It considered the effects of poverty on children and investigated children’s spiritual development in a context of poverty. An exploration of childhood poverty revealed that poverty is by nature complex, multidimensional and never stands on its own. Children’s lives are entangled within the web of poverty affecting all their life contexts. The invisible “violence” of poverty shapes all areas of children’s lives, leaving scars on their physical, cognitive, educational, emotional, behavioural, social and spiritual development which is carried throughout life. An investigation of children’s spiritual development revealed a renewed interest in children’s spirituality from different perspectives, which resulted in different emphases. Children’s spirituality, like a diamond which has multiple dimensions, includes relational consciousness, awareness-, mystery- and value-sensing, and concerns the wellness of the whole-person. Christian children’s spirituality, in addition, emphasises a conscious relationship with God in Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. Context, contextual learning and care for the whole child, which is based on a Christian premise, are essential aspects in the process of a child’s spiritual journey. The role of the Christian children’s worker is to ensure that spiritual nurture embraces all aspects of the lives of poverty-stricken children Practical theological reflections revealed that the perceptions of the Christian children’s worker can influence the effectiveness of ministry. Dangers of having a god complex, dualistic views, compartmentalising ministry and a flawed anthropology of children result in ineffective ministry. In contrast, even though poverty affects all relationships, God is already present with the poor, and the face of God can be found in each child. This requires treating them with dignity and guiding them in restored relationships. The principal conclusion was that the Christian children’s worker can play an important role in the spiritual nurturing of poverty-stricken children. The role includes providing a context of regular relationships with a high level of warmth, support and loving care and offering a Christ-centred Christian children’s ministry where children become aware of God’s presence in their lives. The challenge of conflicting tensions, such as financing resources, meaningful relationships with larger groups and ministry to non-Christian children, will remain. Further research is needed on the interplay between spiritual development and childhood poverty and how to explore God’s presence in larger groups among South Africa’s poor children.
Spirituele ontwikkeling by kinders : 'n konseptuele studie
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013-12) Van Biljon, Karla; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this research is to determine how we can better accompany and serve children through their spiritual development, especially within the congregational context. Many studies on children’s spiritual development have been done, but misperceptions and preconceived ideas about children’s spiritual abilities and development still exist. In this study, an attempt is made to address some of these misperceptions and preconceived ideas and so attain a richer conceptual understanding of children’s spiritual development. This is done on the basis of the question: How can we understand children’s development better and what are the implications for children’s ministry? This research firstly examines the conceptual and definitive understanding of children’s spiritual development. The research section indicates that spirituality is an inherent part of every person’s life. This inherent spirituality develops in the course of a person’s life. Definitions for childhood spirituality concurs with the general definitions for spirituality, but terms such as “develop” or “grow” are added. The study also addresses children’s spiritual development as a deepening or enhancement of the awareness of the transcendental and relational kinship with others, the self, and the world, and not as a linear or chronological development process. The research secondly examines the historical and contemporary perspectives on children’s spiritual development. In the light of historical perspectives, the research discusses the emphasis that is mistakenly put on cognitive development as spiritual development in children. The limitedness of the phases theory sent the research in the direction of finding and forming a richer picture of children’s spiritual development. The context, the universal nature of development and a collective approach are indicated as factors that play a role in the spiritual development of children. Thirdly, the research examines which theological thoughts on children’s spiritual development can be regarded as appropriate theological grounds for children’s ministry within a congregational context. Current children’s ministry models are critically evaluated and the necessity of change is indicated. Some ministry models are suggested as being more effective, as they represent a holistic and inclusive approach to children’s ministry. The consolidated thought from this study can be formulated as follows: Children’s ministry is a comprehensive ministry that is directed at the total being of children and their needs. Children’s ministry should pose opportunities for children to develop spiritually through thought, reflection, experience and action. When these four moments are present simultaneously, children develop a commitment to practicing a sustained and lifelong spirituality. It is of critical importance that children’s ministry is applied purposefully, and the purpose of children’s ministries should be formulated on a theological foundation.
Superman : the man and the myth - a theological exploration of the influence of popular culture on masculinity
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2017-03) Hendriks, Nathania; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Van der Walt, Charlene; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study explores the influence of popular culture on male adolescents’ construction of masculinity. A theoretical engagement with the concepts of culture and ideology is linked to the concept of popular culture. The notion of culture and ideology, connected to popular culture, is unpacked, and the various definitions of the concept reflected upon in an attempt to arrive at a more holistic understanding of the term. Using the terms of culture, ideology and popular culture as a foundation, the study explores Superman as an example of popular culture, taking into account the history of the creators of Superman, the evolution of the character as well as a fictional biography of Superman as a mythical hero. This also includes a deliberation on the Christological aspect of Superman, and a discussion of Superman situated in the sphere of culture and more specifically, popular culture. This study also encompasses a reflection on the history of masculinity development. Specific attention is devoted to the impact of feminist theory on masculinity studies. A brief discussion of gender – the overarching notion that includes masculinity and femininity – is integrated in this consideration, as it establishes the foundation for the discussion of masculinities. The connection is made between masculinities and popular culture in South Africa, functioning as a theoretical basis to discusses and reflects upon the type of masculinity that Superman presents and the influence this character has on male adolescents. To comprehend the construction of the current concept of adolescence, the literature review considers the historical context of the concept of adolescence and the changes in social reality over the centuries. Different viewpoints exist on the development of adolescence, which necessitates an overview of physiological, psychological and sociological factors. This, in turn, offers the groundwork for a discussion of male adolescence and the influence of these factors on the developmental process of male adolescence. The influence of popular culture, referring to Superman as an example, demonstrates the impact this character has on male adolescents’ construction of masculinity. Following the discussions on popular culture, masculinities, adolescent development and Superman, the normative approach of practical theological interpretation is applied, thereby contemplating on popular culture as the context, masculinities as the situation and male adolescent development as the episode. Included in this discussion are the circumstances of South Africans and the influence of these circumstances on male adolescent development. Furthermore, the study reflects on the religious comparisons between Superman and Jesus Christ, deliberating between the distinctions of the sacred and profane and how these concepts intertwine in the context of popular culture. This introduces the theological exploration that includes a discussion of practical theological interpretation, feminist theory, feminist theology and the feminist theology of praxis. This study also considers alternative, transformative and redemptive masculinities as a means to combat the hegemonic and hypermasculine ideal perpetuated by popular culture, concluding with suggestions that can aid male adolescents that are divulged to the periphery of society.
A theological investigation into Malawian child labour : a challenge to CCAP Livingstonia synod
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-03) Gondwe, John; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Motivated by the observation that child labour is harmful to children, this research aims to determine whether child labour could be described as a violation of human dignity. The research further attempts to develop a theological framework which the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (C.C.A.P) Synod of Livingstonia in Malawi could adopt in restoring the human dignity that might have been trodden on in child labour practices. In order to achieve the objectives of this study, eight ministers from two presbyteries were interviewed, using a structured questionnaire as the main tool for data collection. The data was analyzed using a thematic data analysis method. The findings indicated that child labour is any work done by children that is detrimental to their welfare. Such work was predominantly on tobacco farms both at commercial and at family levels, and was carried out under hazardous conditions. As a result children experience the following effects; physical abuse; psychological torture, sexual abuse; and these children may end up in perpetual poverty experiences, to mention just a few effects. The critical literature analysis done with reference to theological concept of human dignity, characterized the effects as a violation of human dignity. The main causes of child labour identified during this study were poverty, ignorance of short and long terms impact of child labour effects on children, and the cultural perceptions that children are equipped for the future if they are trained (socialized) to work hard at a tender age. By implication, as long as these causes exist, child labour may remain a problem and children may continue to suffer since these children do not enter labour by choice, but forced by the socio-economic and socio-cultural structures. Although these children experience this human degradation there is no way they can stop working on their own, because they do not have a voice, they are under the control of parents and employers. In this context this study would like to classify working children as among the marginalized, oppressed, weak and vulnerable groups in need of people and institution that can speak and act on their behalf. Therefore it is argued that there is a need for the church to advocate for the marginalized children in this context. The literature consulted further indicated that the church of Jesus Christ is responsible for providing spiritual and physical salvation to people, taking into account how long it may take to deal with some of the main causes of child labour. The church may consider its advocacy role of protecting the dignity of human beings created in the image of God with compassionate love. This research suggests recommendations that are in line with theological understanding of who the church is and the human dignity of people and specifically of children, to address the challenges of child labour practices. The recommendations attempt to involve different stakeholders of the community to work in a consortium.
Tikverslawing in die gemeenskap van die Rynse Kerk Bellville : 'n prakties-teologiese ondersoek na die behoeftes van geaffekteerde families.
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2012-03) Carelse, Sidwell Charles; Hendriks, Hans Jurgens; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Drugs are a very real problem in South-Africa. It affects health and is endemic to societal problems. Methamphetamine, popularly called “Tik,” is relatively cheap and easy to come by. Many young people use it and become addicted - with very bad repercussions for their families and society at large. In the Bellville South area most families suffer because of this scourge and are desperately looking for help. Faith communities have no option but to address the problem. The research focuses on the Bellville-South community where numerous families struggle with the scourge, desparately looking for help. As such faith communites are challenged to get involved and address tik-addiction and the related sociao-economic problems. The leadership of the Rhenish Church in Bellville took on the challenge to live up to the needs of families and society and to provide guidance for families. It is realistic to accept that there is no easy quick-fix solution to the problem. A holistic approach is needed. Thus the congregation has to do some real soul-searching and address its being functions, identity and calling in a time like this. How can the church be a safe haven for its members and the suffering community‟s parents and children? The research took an analytical look at the congregation, describing it from different angles. It also made a study of the drug problem, focussing on Tik. From a normative angle it looked at the essence of a missional church and asked how a missional church should address these challenges. It develops a strategy to guide leadership and congregation to support the families affected by the scourge. Eventually a missional ministry should be in place that will reach out in love and care to serve the community.
Who's got the power? : a practical theological reflection on the power relations in the "Blesser" phenomenon amoung female adolescence in South Africa
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-12) Jonas, Ruth; Cloete, Anita Louisa; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study explores the “Blesser” phenomenon, a gender-sensitive social phenomenon characterised by the lavish lifestyles of certain female adolescents and affluent older/married men. It started spreading rapidly when female adolescents and young women, or “Blessees”, began to post pictures or videos on social media of how to maintain an extravagant lifestyle by finding a “Blesser”. These images uploaded by “Blessees” created a socially constructed platform for this phenomenon to become the norm among certain female adolescents. This phenomenon is critically scrutenised from the perspective of prostitution to describe how the practice of monetary compensation in return for a sexual act has been, perceived differently overtime and eventually resulted in the so-called “sugar-daddy” culture and, later, the “Blesser” phenomenon. The various perceptions of sexual commerce are analysed with reference to different social factors that have contributed to the popularity of the “Blesser” phenomenon. This phenomenon particularly motivates young female adolescents in need of essential means of survival or maintenance. Nevertheless, even young women with constrained access to resources rely on a “Blesser” to further improve their education and secure employment and business opportunities. The analysis of sexual commerce specifically focuses on the gender component, which is the main driver of the causes and effects of the socio-economic conditions, in South Africa. The gender phenomenon has been, shaped by a patriarchal history that continues to dominate culture, society and the economy. This study explores young female adolescents’ increasing desire for material possessions, and how they, derive emotional and artistic joy from consumer experiences. In essence, the stimulus of the sexual act becomes a means of survival when the female body, is used to, solicit a monetary gift. This need for lavishness and extravagance is investigated and described at a deeper level, exploring how female adolescents, get caught up, in a “sexual game” with affluent men, who enforce a patriarchal notion of providence. This study also explores the effect of an age-disparate relationship on the expansion of the “Blesser” phenomenon, as well as its impact on female adolescents’ health and behaviour. Defenceless, immature female adolescents’ willingness to consider a self-determined monetary sexual relationship exposes most of them to the risk of HIV/Aids and other sexually transmitted diseases, and even possible pregnancy. The health factor is, discussed based on the bio- psychosocial model of well-being. This model explains the connection between people and their environment, their mental condition and societal issues that either predict or cause disease, or point to a healthy and fulfilling life. While the study mainly focuses on female adolescents it, acknowledged that males may be equally vulnerable. In addition, the study attempts to understand the link between the “Blesser” phenomenon and youth culture, particularly the use of social media. Social media are analysed as a key part of youth culture, playing a major role in the existence and expansion of the “Blesser” phenomenon. The study considers how culture inspires adolescents to build exceptional identities, which are then, expressed on a diverse range of self-fashioned platforms to clarify or articulate their own sexuality in a consumer culture. The youth’s mind-set is, explored and understood based on their creative discovery of a subculture. The theoretical description uses culture to understand sexual relationships based on an evaluation of adolescents, both, in South Africa and the rest of the world. This evaluation examines sexual awareness in the “Blesser” phenomenon from the perspective of adolescents’ sexual development and ethical conduct. The crux of the study is, founded on French historian and philosopher Foucault’s explanation of the power phenomenon in relationships. The notion of power is evident from female adolescents’ uncompromising behaviour and verbal declarations that they hold the power in the “Blesser” relationship. Foucault’s explanation of power suggests that the person with the least or lowest form of influence in fact also has power. This form of power takes precedence over those with real authority. Foucault also includes the gender concept in his explanation to explore the complexities of gender relations. Based on this it, identified how and why a pyramid of gender relations occur by considering masculinity and femininity. The study touches on the patriarchal origins of gender, as well as subsequent gender differentiation. The historical entrenchment of patriarchy has influenced people’s mind-set and has caused women’s position in society to be, understood as inferior and subservient. Following the discussion of the effect of power in the “Blesser” phenomenon, the focus shifts to how “Blessees” understand power in these relationships. Power is, understood from the perspective of a dominant patriarchal system and the complexities of gender, and how this has led women to regard men as the providers of material possessions. To “Blessees”, power is located in a sexy, desirable body and the creativity to use this to attract men. Sexuality is, understood as physical desirability. In interpreting sexuality from the perspective of spirituality, the study also finds that “Blessees” in no way connect their material “blessings” from their “Blessers” to religion. Practical theology and a feminist theology of praxis are, applied to understand the importance of the body in relation to sexuality and spirituality. The contextual relation of the body is, explained with reference to the understanding of spirituality and the impact of this generational perspective on adolescents. Looking through the lenses of practical theology, body theology and a feminist theology of praxis, a deepened understanding of sexuality and spirituality is, obtained. To this end, the sacredness of the body is, examined to understand the interconnectedness of sexuality and spirituality. This deepened understanding is, considered with reference to the religious view of patriarchy and the way in which patriarchy has been, perpetuated by the Christian church. For years, Christian families abided by this notion, which has subsequently become the social norm. The way in which the church has dealt with culture and violence against women and children in society are thoroughly studied. Christianity is strongly associated with the construction and upholding of patriarchy, which has resulted in the oppression of women. The study concludes with findings and suggestions on how families, adolescents, society, the education sector and the church could collaborate in developing a gender-sensitive youth and upholding a sound value system.

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Practical Theology and Missiology) by browse.metadata.advisor "Cloete, Anita Louisa"

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