Christian Perceptions of Divorce in The Church: A Study of The Anglican Church of Kenya, Diocese of Nairobi.

Abstract

morce as a legal dissolution of marriage has become a big challenge to. The Church perceives divorced Christians as sinners hence forbids them to n Church sacraments or ministries. In addition, Christians treat the divorced acempt, suspicion and condemnation, which tends to turn them away from the a situation that jeopardises the unity of the Church as the body of Christ. : 42-47). Therefore, there is an urgent need to address the issue, and undertake to determine and document the perceptions of divorce among Christians and up mth suitable recommendations that contribute to resolve the issue.This study used qualitative and quantitative approaches to collect data from a of 120 Christians, among them 18 divorced and separated Christians, 53 married CY•zsums md 35 Church leaders. In addition, 14 Christians participated in focus coup discussions. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, questionnaires, group discussions and document analysis.The study revealed three dissenting views among the Christians. Majority felt rs a sin and should not be allowed at all and divorcees should be punished. The second group felt that divorce should only be allowed on grounds of adultery and desertion by a non-believing spouse. The third group indicated that any unbearable arcumstances should be considered to dissolve the unhappy marriages. It was also established that the Church has been condemning and discriminating against the divorced. Lastly, Christians agreed that the Church should minister to the divorcees. In conclusion, all agreed that the Church must extend God's forgiving grace to the divorced Christians as well as prepare young couples to face the challenges before and during marriage. The clergy requires training in relevant disciplines in order to offer wholistic ministry to the Church. xi