Examining the Activities of the Redeemed College of Missions and Its impact on Fostering Peaceful Coexistence in Ede, Osun State

Abstract

Religious conflict poses a significant challenge to peaceful coexistence in diverse communities including Ede, Osun State, Nigeria. While Christian missions strive to promote peace, their specific contributions to interfaith dialogue and understanding, particularly through institutions like the Redeemed College of Missions (RCM), require further examination. The research investigates the role of RCM in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding, evaluates the impact of its missionary activities on interfaith relations, identifies challenges faced by RCM in its peacebuilding efforts, and proposes strategies to enhance its initiatives. Data was collected from RCM staff, students, and community members (Christian and Muslim) using surveys. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentages). Findings show a high level of awareness and participation in RCM activities, with respondents perceiving RCM as positively contributing to interfaith dialogue through events, interaction, respect promotion, and resource provision. RCM's missionary activities are also viewed as having a positive impact on peaceful coexistence, including bridge-building, tension reduction, and promoting tolerance. However, the study also identifies challenges faced by RCM, such as difficulties engaging certain religious communities, limited resources, resistance to interfaith efforts, and the need for greater public awareness. The study highlights a gap between perceived positive contributions and the need for greater interfaith collaboration facilitated by RCM. The findings offer valuable insights into the role of faith-based organizations in promoting interfaith harmony and provide recommendations for strengthening RCM's peacebuilding initiatives in Ede and similar contexts, including enhanced collaboration, innovative programs, improved communication, and resource diversification.

Word count: 208

Keywords: Interfaith Dialogue, Peaceful Coexistence, Religious Harmony, Conflict Resolution, Peacebuilding

Table of Contents

Cover Pagei

Title Pageii

Declarationiii

Approval Pageiv

Certificationv

Dedicationvi

Acknowledgementsvii

Abstractx

Table of Contentsxi

List of Tables     xiv

Chapter One: Introduction1

1.1Background To The Study1

1.2Statement Of The Problem7

1.3 Purpose Of The Study7

1.4 Research Questions8

1.5 Scope Of The Study8

1.6 Significance Of The Study9

1.7  Definition Of Operational Terms11

Chapter Two: Literature Review13

2.1 Introduction13

2.2 Concept of Christian Missions13

2.2.1 Theological And Missiological Foundations15

2.2.2 The Role Of Interfaith Dialogue17

2.2.3 Christian Missions And Interfaith Dialogue: A Synergistic Approach20

2.2.4    Mutual Respect And Understanding23

2.2.5    Common Ground And Collaborative Efforts23

2.2.6    Contextualization And Theological Reflection24

2.2.7   Educational Initiatives And Peacebuilding24

2.2.8 The Redeemed College Of Missions: Initiatives And Activities25

2.2.9 Religious Dynamics And Challenges26

2.2.10 Impact Of Christian Missions And Interfaith Dialogue In Ede27

2.3 Theoretical Framework31

2.3.1 Peacebuilding Theory31

2.3.2    Application of Peacebuilding Theory in Interfaith Dialogue37

2.3.3    Relevance to the Redeemed College of Mission45

2.4 Summary of Literature Review45

Chapter Three:Research Methodology51

3.1 Introduction51

3.2 Research Design51

3.3Population Of The Study51

3.4Sampling Technique51

3.5 Research Instruments51

3.6 Administration Of The Instrument52

3.7Method Of Data Analysis52

Chapter Four:Results And Discussion Of Findings53

4.1Data Analysis53

4.2Analysis Of Questions69

Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusion, And Recommendations85

5.1 Summary85

5.2Conclusion88

5.3 Recommendations90

5.4 Suggestions For Further Studies92

Bibliography94

Appendix I97