“A lack of well-trained…leaders…results in a Church that is a thousand miles wide but only an inch deep”

Philippe J. L. Emedi (second from right) with ACTEA leaders

Doctoral student Philippe J. L. Emedi says the Church in Africa is generally characterized by a lack of well-trained leaders, conflict and social/political/economic challenges. “A lack of well-trained, discipled and motivated servant leaders…results in a Church that is a thousand miles wide but only an inch deep,” he says. Many believe in Christ and join the Church, but very few are true disciples because of the lack of “true disciple-makers.” Philippe says this deep leadership problem has affected the Church as a whole in Africa.

In addition, he says wars have culminated in the Church and the political arena because of conflict over leadership positions and power, as well as tribal divisions. Therefore, community development and the emergence of a “prophetic and confessing Church” have been halted. Thirdly, various challenges, such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, gender issues and the lack of good governance and infrastructure have “plagued both the Church and our communities.” Philippe also says not knowing what, when and how to address immediate needs has led to frustration for the Church.

While he sees the Church’s mission as evangelism, he also believes that those who respond in faith to God’s call to wholeness in Christ must be prepared to “model servanthood,…edify others, discipline in love and guard the truth. By so doing, they will address the many social, economical, political, cultural and religious problems we are facing today.”

Philippe is on study leave from the Accrediting Council for Theological Education in Africa (ACTEA) where he serves as the Administrative Secretary for Accreditation. His doctoral research topic at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa addresses discipleship’s role in confronting societal issues and is expected to be an important contribution to the Church and seminary. The gap between the two entities must be bridged in order to make true disciples and for the African Church to become a real “center of gravity for Christianity in the global south,” he says. “This research will impact my work and ministry by deepening my understanding of both theology and theological education. It will also help me acquire more skills to critique accreditation processes by using discipleship, spiritual formation and character development as important components.”

Philippe is thankful for an OC faculty scholarship, which will help him complete his PhD in Theology by 2012. “The scholarship from OC will really be a great relief during my three years study leave from ACTEA without pay.”