The Influence of Christian Spiritual Formation in Child Development for Community Sustainability: The Case of Rabia Churches

Abstract

The influence of Christian spiritual formation is significant for holistic child development and community sustainability. The objective of this study was to establish whether the church in Rabai Sub-County in Kilifi County, Kenya, has a role in the Christian spiritual formation of a child because it is imperative for behavioral challenges, developing values, parental/child Socialization, and academic success. The study used qualitative research design and methodology involved stratified and purposive sampling of 36 parents, child caregivers, and clergy professionals. Data were collected using structured interviews. The researcher observed ethical considerations in accordance with the university’s laid down ethical protocols. The data collected was analysed using thematic techniques. The qualitative analysis yielded that teaching spiritual disciplines to the child and leading radical unashamed Christian lives were theological approaches to promoting spiritual formation. The greatest hindrance was distractions, which manifested through technology, traditional and cultural practices, and parental over-permissiveness. However, it was clear from the findings that intentional spiritual molding is an influential way of promoting the spiritual formation of the children for development. Therefore, while spiritual formation was determined to be crucial for the development that can lead to community sustainability. Further research was required to determine the extent to which spiritual formation methods help the people of Rabai, have a sustainable community.