THE ROLE OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH MOTHERS’ UNION IN IMPROVING FAMILY LIFE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ST. THOMAS CHURCH IN KILIFI COUNTY

Abstract

The study sought to establish the contribution of the Anglican Church of Kenya Mothers Union (MU) on women, in developing family life at St. Thomas church in Kilifi County. It is an exploratory study on the Mothers Union efforts towards promoting family life. The study analyzed the role that Mothers’ Union plays in improving family life. The study has evaluated MU activities in the church in regard to improve family life and sought to establish the challenges that the mothers face in their efforts towards improving family life. The study employed African Women Theologies (AWTs), as Theoretical Framework. This study adopted the term African Women Theology, because the Mothers’ Union is a circle of concerned Mothers within the Anglican Church who often meet to `discuss family issues. The study acquired data from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected through questionnaires distributed to 40 members of the Mothers’ Union (MU) as well as oral interviews with key informants. These were complimented by Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Secondary data involved critical reading of published materials. The study found out that, the role of women ministry in the Church is not limited to service delivery where they engage in worship, and prayers. In addition, they also participate in the cleaning of the church and occasionally offering food and drinks to guests in the Church. The study also established that the success of the MU is due to their huge membership. On the other hand, the Mothers’ Union (MU) is also regarded as a social organization due to its support systems to the vulnerable people in the society. Its economic activities are all aimed at improving family life. The study thus proposed that the church should acknowledge them and increase participation of women in the society and the Church.