A comparative literature study of the place of worship in pastoral counseling in a multi-cultural church facing conflict

Abstract

This study intends to recommend guidelines on how a multicultural congregation can address worship-related challenges brought about by diversity. Also, to identify strategies that can be adopted to mitigate worship challenges. For example, a church can be multiracial yet culturally homogenous because members of the same cultural group hold all power and influence in the congregation. The study’s objective is to evaluate unique challenges and potential of how worship can enrich believers' lives when worshipping in Spirit and truth in the mission context. Presenting critical aspects in worship in a multicultural congregation means presenting an inter-cultural engagement that models critical multiculturalism and focuses on relationship building and survival, which embodies learning from one another through empathy, interactions, and respect. Therefore, the study proposes worship as a possible guideline for the unique challenges in a multicultural congregation. The study reviews literature on conflicts associated with multicultural congregations in order to understand the construct and possible solutions. Furthermore, it assesses grammatical-historical exegesis of relevant passages from the Bible concerned with worship in Spirit and truth. This diversity of methods enabled the researcher to understand the theme: the conflict between believers from different cultures and the relation of this problem to the correct worship practices. Such an understanding define the contribution of worship to tolerance and peace among members. The model of practical theology designed by Osmer (2008:4) was used to guide the study. This model identifies four tasks of practical-theological research, descriptive, interpretative, normative, and pragmatic tasks. The four tasks aim to assess the problem and its possible solution. Osmer's primary objective is for leaders to be efficient, interpretive guides to teach congregants (Osmer, 2008:22). As such, this study aimed to suggest a model that church leaders may consider in addressing intercultural conflict.