The perceptions of the elderly church members on youth migration from mainline churches to new Pentecostal churches: a case study of the Trenance Roman Catholic Parish in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study aimed at investigating youth migration from the Roman Catholic Church to New Pentecostal Churches. It was carried out at the Roman Catholic Church in Trenance Suburb, in Bulawayo. What accounts for this migration and what preventive measures can be employed to counter this exodus. It was informed by the African Traditional Religion and Feminism theories. The researcher used a case study premised in a qualitative methodology, which allows the researcher to analyse, assess, discuss and explain ideas and opinions of scholars and respondents on an issue under discussion. From the 20 elderly people targeted, she ended up interviewing 15 because of data saturation, using semi structured interviews as an instrument. The researcher observed ethical considerations namely, informed consent, confidentiality, privacy and anonymity. All data was narratively presented as well as thematically analyzed. The study findings were that the influence of Pentecostal theological orientation appeals to most cultures where the movement finds itself. Pentecostal beliefs and practices have always tended to influence and shape the daily lives of its members, rendering it relevant in addressing peculiar cultural and societal circumstance of the people it finds itself in hence attracting young people.