Project – MENTORING AS A STRATEGY FOR YOUTH SPIRITUAL AND MORAL DEVELOPMENT IN DIOCESE OF LAGOS-WEST, ANGLICAN COMMUNION DIOCESE OF LAGOS WEST.
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
- Background of the study
Mentoring has long been recognized as a powerful tool for personal and professional development. In the context of youth spiritual and moral development, particularly within the Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, mentoring takes on a unique and profound significance. The Diocese of Lagos-West, established in 1999, has been proactive in addressing the spiritual and moral needs of its youth through various programs and initiatives. Mentoring, as a strategy, aligns with the church’s mission to nurture and guide young individuals in their faith journey, ensuring they grow into responsible and morally upright adults.
The concept of mentoring in the Diocese of Lagos-West is deeply rooted in biblical principles. The Bible is replete with examples of mentoring relationships, such as Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, and Paul and Timothy. These relationships highlight the importance of guidance, support, and the transfer of wisdom from one generation to the next. In the Anglican Communion, mentoring is seen as a way to emulate these biblical examples, providing young people with role models who can help them navigate the complexities of life while staying true to their faith. According to Johnson and Ridley (2008), effective mentoring involves a dynamic and reciprocal relationship that fosters growth and development in both the mentor and the mentee.
In the Diocese of Lagos-West, mentoring programs are designed to address the specific challenges faced by youth in contemporary society. These challenges include peer pressure, identity crises, and the influence of secular values that often conflict with Christian teachings. By pairing young individuals with experienced mentors, the diocese aims to provide a supportive environment where youth can discuss their struggles, seek advice, and receive encouragement. Research by Rhodes (2002) indicates that mentoring can significantly impact youth by enhancing their self-esteem, improving academic performance, and reducing the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors.
One of the key components of the mentoring strategy in the Diocese of Lagos-West is the integration of spiritual disciplines into the mentoring process. Mentors are encouraged to engage their mentees in regular prayer, Bible study, and participation in church activities. This holistic approach ensures that the mentees’ spiritual growth is nurtured alongside their moral and emotional development. The diocese also organizes workshops and training sessions for mentors to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively guide their mentees. As noted by Stanley and Clinton (1992), successful mentoring requires intentionality, commitment, and a deep understanding of the mentee’s needs and aspirations.
The impact of mentoring on youth in the Diocese of Lagos-West is evident in the testimonies of many young individuals who have benefited from these programs. They report a stronger sense of identity, increased resilience in the face of challenges, and a deeper commitment to their faith. The diocese continually evaluates and refines its mentoring programs to ensure they remain relevant and effective. This ongoing assessment is crucial, as it allows the diocese to adapt to the evolving needs of its youth and incorporate best practices from successful mentoring models worldwide.
Mentoring as a strategy for youth spiritual and moral development in the Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, is a multifaceted approach that draws on biblical principles, addresses contemporary challenges, and integrates spiritual disciplines. The positive outcomes observed among the youth underscore the importance of this strategy in nurturing the next generation of faithful and morally upright individuals. As the diocese continues to invest in mentoring programs, it sets a valuable example for other religious communities seeking to support their youth in a rapidly changing world.
- Statement of problem
The Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, faces a significant challenge in fostering the spiritual and moral development of its youth. Despite the church’s efforts to engage young people through various programs and activities, there remains a noticeable gap in their spiritual growth and moral grounding. This gap is often attributed to the lack of consistent and effective mentoring relationships that can provide the necessary guidance and support. The absence of such mentoring programs leaves many young individuals without the role models they need to navigate the complexities of modern life while adhering to Christian values.
One of the core issues is the disconnection between the older and younger generations within the church. The older members, who possess a wealth of spiritual and moral wisdom, often do not have structured opportunities to pass on their knowledge and experiences to the youth. This generational gap results in young people feeling isolated and unsupported in their spiritual journeys. Without the influence of mentors, they are more susceptible to external pressures and influences that may lead them away from the church’s teachings.
Furthermore, the current youth programs in the Diocese of Lagos-West may lack the depth and personalization that mentoring can provide. Group activities and general teachings, while beneficial, do not address the individual needs and challenges faced by each young person. Mentoring, on the other hand, offers a tailored approach where mentors can focus on the specific areas where a mentee needs guidance, whether it be in understanding scripture, making ethical decisions, or developing a personal prayer life.
The lack of a formalized mentoring strategy also means that there is no consistent framework for training and supporting mentors. Potential mentors may feel ill-equipped to take on such a role without proper training and resources. This can lead to a reluctance to volunteer, further exacerbating the shortage of mentors available to the youth. A structured mentoring program would not only provide the necessary training but also create a support network for mentors, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident in their roles.
Additionally, the absence of mentoring relationships can impact the overall sense of community within the church. Mentoring fosters strong, intergenerational bonds that contribute to a cohesive and supportive church environment. When young people feel connected to their mentors and the broader church community, they are more likely to remain engaged and active in church life. This sense of belonging is crucial for their spiritual and moral development, as it reinforces the values and teachings of the church.
The Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, must address the current shortcomings in its approach to youth spiritual and moral development. Implementing a structured mentoring program could bridge the generational gap, provide personalized guidance, and strengthen the church community. By investing in mentoring as a strategy, the diocese can ensure that its youth are well-supported in their spiritual journeys and equipped to uphold Christian values in their daily lives.
- Purpose of study
The purpose of the study is to examine mentoring as a strategy for youth spiritual and moral development in Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion Diocese of Lagos West. The specific objectives of the study are:
- To find out the Theological Concept of Mentoring
- To examine the Concept of Spirituality and Morality in the Diocese of Lagos-west, Anglican Communion.
iii. Find out the effect of Proliferation of Churches on the Diocese of Lagos-west, Anglican Communion Mentoring program.
- To examine the Styles and Languages of Mentoring Commission in the Society
- Scope of study
The study examines mentoring as a strategy for youth spiritual and moral development in Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion Diocese of Lagos West.
- Significance of study
The significance of this study on mentoring as a strategy for youth spiritual and moral development in the Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, cannot be overstated. Firstly, it addresses a critical need within the community. The youth in this diocese, like many others, face numerous challenges, including peer pressure, societal expectations, and the influence of modern secular values. By implementing a structured mentoring program, the diocese can provide young people with the guidance and support they need to navigate these challenges while staying true to their spiritual and moral values. This study aims to highlight the potential of mentoring to fill this gap, offering a roadmap for other dioceses facing similar issues.
Secondly, the study is significant because it contributes to the broader field of youth development and religious education. While there is a wealth of research on mentoring in general, there is relatively little that focuses specifically on its application within religious communities, particularly in the context of the Anglican Communion in Nigeria. By providing empirical evidence and practical insights, this study can serve as a valuable resource for scholars, educators, and religious leaders who are interested in the intersection of mentoring, spirituality, and moral development.
Thirdly, the study has the potential to strengthen the community bonds within the Diocese of Lagos-West. Mentoring programs often involve pairing younger individuals with older, more experienced members of the community. This not only benefits the mentees but also fosters a sense of responsibility and purpose among the mentors. By encouraging intergenerational relationships, the diocese can create a more cohesive and supportive community, where members are actively engaged in each other’s spiritual and moral growth.
Moreover, the study’s findings could have practical implications for policy and program development within the diocese. By identifying the most effective mentoring strategies and practices, the diocese can develop targeted programs that maximize the benefits for the youth. This could include training for mentors, structured mentoring activities, and ongoing support for both mentors and mentees. The insights gained from this study could also inform the allocation of resources, ensuring that the diocese invests in initiatives that have the greatest impact on youth development.
Additionally, the study underscores the importance of proactive measures in youth development. Rather than waiting for issues to arise, a well-implemented mentoring program can help prevent problems before they start. By instilling strong spiritual and moral foundations in young people, the diocese can equip them with the tools they need to make positive choices and lead fulfilling lives. This proactive approach not only benefits the individuals involved but also contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
Finally, the significance of this study extends beyond the Diocese of Lagos-West. The insights and recommendations generated could be applicable to other dioceses and religious communities facing similar challenges. By sharing the findings with a broader audience, the study can inspire other communities to adopt mentoring as a strategy for youth spiritual and moral development. In this way, the Diocese of Lagos-West can serve as a model for others, demonstrating the transformative power of mentoring in nurturing the next generation of spiritually and morally grounded individuals.
- Research methodology
The methodology for this study on mentoring as a strategy for youth spiritual and moral development in the Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, will employ a qualitative approach. This method is chosen to gain in-depth insights into the experiences, perceptions, and impacts of mentoring on the youth within this specific religious context. The data collected will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common themes and patterns, providing a comprehensive understanding of how mentoring contributes to the spiritual and moral development of youth in the Diocese of Lagos-West.
- Definition of terms
Mentoring: Mentoring is a developmental relationship in which a more experienced or knowledgeable person helps to guide a less experienced or knowledgeable person. This relationship is often characterized by mutual respect, trust, and a commitment to the mentee’s growth and development. In the context of youth spiritual and moral development, mentoring involves guiding young individuals in their faith journey and ethical decision-making.
Strategy: A strategy is a plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim. It involves setting goals, determining actions to achieve those goals, and mobilizing resources to execute the actions. In the context of mentoring for youth development, a strategy would include the methods and approaches used to effectively mentor young people in their spiritual and moral growth.
Youth: Youth refers to the period between childhood and adulthood, typically characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social development. It generally includes individuals aged between 12 and 24 years, although the exact age range can vary depending on cultural and contextual factors. In this context, youth are the target group for mentoring programs aimed at spiritual and moral development.
Spiritual: Spiritual pertains to the aspect of human experience that involves the search for meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than oneself. It often involves religious beliefs, practices, and experiences, but can also encompass broader existential questions and personal growth. In the context of mentoring, spiritual development involves guiding youth in their faith, religious practices, and personal spiritual growth.
Moral Development: Moral development refers to the process through which individuals develop the ability to distinguish right from wrong, make ethical decisions, and act in accordance with moral principles. It involves the growth of moral reasoning, ethical behavior, and the development of virtues such as honesty, integrity, and compassion. Mentoring for moral development focuses on helping youth develop these qualities and make ethical choices.
Diocese: A diocese is a district or region under the pastoral care and administrative oversight of a bishop in the Christian Church. It is a geographical area that includes multiple congregations or parishes. In the context of the Diocese of Lagos-West, Anglican Communion, it refers to the specific region in Lagos, Nigeria, that is overseen by the Anglican Church and its bishop, and where the mentoring program for youth spiritual and moral development is being implemented.
Project – MENTORING AS A STRATEGY FOR YOUTH SPIRITUAL AND MORAL DEVELOPMENT IN DIOCESE OF LAGOS-WEST, ANGLICAN COMMUNION DIOCESE OF LAGOS WEST.
