THE ROLES OF THE CHURCH IN ENSURING PEACE AND HARMONY IN THE IN ABEOKUTA METROPOLIS, OGUN STATE
Abstract
This study examined the roles of the church in ensuring peace and harmony in Abeokuta Metropolis, Ogun State. Sample size of 100 respondents were selected through a random sampling technique and well-structured questionnaire with twenty (20) generated items were used for the collection of data. In this study, simple percentages were adopted for the presentation and interpretation of data. The result of the study shows that the church has seen to act as a neutral mediator in resolving conflicts within the community and serve as a hub for community activities and events, bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging and social cohesion. The result also revealed that the church teaches the importance of forgiveness, both in seeking it and in extending it to others. This is seen as a path to healing and restoring broken relationships. It emphasizes the commandment to “love your neighbour as yourself”. Many churches are involved in community development projects, advocating for human rights, fighting against poverty and discrimination, providing support for marginalized groups, and promoting social cohesion. The research recommends that the Church should also continue in building peace and harmony among the society, Churches should focus more in preaching the message of peace and harmony rather than prosperity message that is the order of the day in most churches today and discourage violence greatly as this aid peace and harmony in the society. Religious organizations/ leaders should be active in preaching/teaching peace among citizens
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