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Collaborative Climate as a Church Growth Mechanism: Insights from Clergy of Pentecostal Churches in Kenya

Open Access

Journal Type:Research Article

Subject:Social Sciences & Psychology

Subject Field:Social Sciences

Volume:169, Issue: 1, March, 2025

Publish Date:March 21, 2025 8:00 pm

Pages:118-127

Download:248

Views:342

Abstract

Pentecostal churches have experienced significant growth, yet they have also faced internal divisions, leadership conflicts, and denominational fragmentation. In Kenya, disputes over leadership succession, doctrinal differences, and competition for congregants have often contributed to stunted church growth. This study aimed to provide qualitative insights into collaborative climate as church growth mechanism among Pentecostal churches in Kenya. The study was inspired by collaborative leadership theory. The study employed phenomenological approach. The target population for the study comprised bishops and reverends from Pentecostal churches in Kenya. The study used purposive sampling, selecting 20 key informants based on their leadership positions and direct involvement in church growth strategies.  The study utilized key informant interviews with semi-structured interview guides as the primary data collection instrument. The study employed thematic analysis to process and interpret the interview data. Collaborative climate manifested under four overarching themes: inter-denominational partnerships, attitudes towards collaboration, workgroup support, and organizational culture. Collaborative climate was found to be a significant driver of church growth, highlighting the importance of fostering teamwork, partnerships, and a supportive environment. Key elements such as inter-denominational cooperation, workgroup support, mutuality, and a strong organizational culture were identified as enablers of this climate. As people who are at the helm of policy making in churches, it is recommended that Bishops prioritize the development of a collaborative climate and promote humility as key team leadership dimensions within the church.

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