Offshoots movements in the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Rwanda: A case of Rubengera District in Western Rwuanda Field

Abstract

This study examined offshoots movements in the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Rwanda, a case of Rubengera District in Western Rwanda Field. It attempted to identify possible offshoot groups in the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Rwanda, and highlight the reasons and causes behind the spirit of believers from the Church towards offshoot movement. The researcher examined the extent to which this offshoot occurs within the Seventh-day Adventist Church not only Rwanda but also in other countries as explained in the literature review. In the third chapter the researcher gives details on the geographical situation of Rubengera church, and deals with the historical background, church membership survey and studied on church finances. The research method used was descriptive involving the distribution of questionnaires.The fourth chapter deal with the program development, seminars and trainings, Biblical studies, visitations, evangelization campaign programs, implementation and evaluation The fifth chapter bore the summary, conclusion and recommendation that motivated Rubengera church members who had regular biblical study for personal church spiritual growth that nurtured and retained newly converted members. Visitation had manifestations of love and cared to offshoots that were highly recommended. The result was so positive that 48 backsliders had to be re-baptised and 87 new members were also baptised. Church members got motivation and pledged to participate fully in the great commission.