Effective Adventist program for male initiation schools, a case of Chemamul, Kenya

Abstract

In a Christian setting, initiation emphasis is on behavior change in the aspect of the attitudes of the heart taking a converted and a changed dimension. According to Paul, the essence of circumcision makes no difference between the uncircumcised and circumcised believer. The underlying factor is faith in Christ (Gal 5:6, NAS). Faith however comes through hearing from a teacher / tutor (Rom 10:17, NAS). Spiritual development is then the main aim in initiation schools during circumcision. An investigation of circumcision process in the Bible, the writings of Ellen G. White, scholarly resources and the Kipsigis community as well as assessing the training programs available were done. On a survey of 70 participants, in a nutshell, they were pessimistic over the existing diversified program setting and recommended intervention through a better harmonious guideline to be put in place. The researcher developed a guideline to aid in developing an effective training resource to be used at Chemamul district of Seventh-day Adventist Church; a program that can be used during initiation training sessions normally done in December. The proposed program could be used for a period of three weeks. To effectively realize a desired outcome of behavior change among the initiates, the guideline proposes a pre, during and post initiation programs including monitoring and evaluation effects for one year. The program is expected to improve on the spiritual levels, develop leadership skills, impact behavior change and inspire for mission involvement of youths. Youth ministry department will be the biggest beneficiary and is expected to revitalize its programs.