Church leaders and members of the clergy from Murang’a and surrounding counties with interest to pursue theology related courses have a reason to smile after Pioneer International University launched a school of divinity faculty.
The school that was launched on Tuesday, will commence with offering a postgraduate diploma in transformational church administration and leaders aiming to enhance effective management of religious institutions and groups.
The University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Gideon Maina, underscored the programme saying it an innovative course designed to integrate principles of synodality which include shared decision making, collaboration and inclusivity with effective church leadership and management.
The programme, Maina observed, will impact knowledge to members of the clergy and church leaders who are presently overwhelmed by emerging needs.
“In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements, shifting cultural paradigms, and complex global challenges, the role of theology and spiritual reflection in higher education has never been more critical,” he said.
“The establishment of the School of Divinity at PIU is our response to this pressing need, a space where faith meets reason, tradition engages with innovation, and spirituality dialogues with contemporary issues.” He added.
Maina averred that the programme is rooted in the teachings of the church and will equip individuals with a transformational way of fostering community, spiritual growth and social justice.
“The programme will provide members of the clergy with leadership skills that will help them resolve conflict brought in by the faithful and the general community,” noted the Vice Chancellor.
He added the programme emphasizes collaborative leadership, shared governance and application of principles that honour the dignity and contributions of every member of the church.
“Today, while the academic landscape has diversified, the essence of theological inquiry remains vital. Divinity schools serve as custodians of moral and ethical discourse, offering insights that transcend empirical data and delve into the human condition’s deeper questions,” he stated.
The university’s Chancellor Peter Munga underscored the need for members of the clergy to further their studies so as they can effectively handle the emerging issues.
The divinity school, he noted, will be of great help to local church leaders and members of the clergy who want to further their studies without traveling far from the areas they serve.
Munga said through transformational leadership the nation can grow to greater heights in church administration and leadership.
On his part, the Mt Kenya Central ACK Diocese, Bishop Dr Timothy Gichere, who was the chief guest, observed that the postgraduate diploma will greatly assist in ushering members of the clergy into a new management level.
“This is a milestone for the country as the church leaders will have the capacity and strength to handle the majority of the conflicts and challenges brought to their attention by their congregants and members of the community in general,” Gichere said.
By Bernard Munyao and Purity Mugo
