The role of African Pentecostal churches in promoting education: A case study of The Living Gospel World Mission

Abstract

Background: The Living Gospel World Mission Church is a Pentecostal church based in Tshilivho, South Africa. The church was founded in May 1997 by Maswole Petrius Ragimana and his wife. Still, today it has over 50 branches in South Africa alone, not to mention over 130 in the entire sub-Saharan region. Apart from its spiritual functions, the church is very important in community education and development.
Objectives: This study examines how the Living Gospel World Mission Church implements educational programmes to facilitate the holistic formation and socio-cultural development of human beings and the community. It focuses on the impact of the church’s educational programmes on church leaders, teachers and community members and how these initiatives contribute to broader societal advancement. The research further examines the role of African Pentecostal churches in promoting human development.
Methods: The desktop research method was used, which involves literature, church publications, policies and academic publications on The Living Gospel World Mission Church. Data were analysed thematically to identify key patterns and insights on education and human development.
Results: The findings indicate that the church’s programmes advance academic, spiritual and social development while fostering ethical leadership and community engagement.
Conclusion: The Living Gospel World Mission Church has made a significant contribution to social change with faith-based education and human development.
Contribution: The study contributes to existing knowledge by examining the Pentecostal church’s potential to advance education and human development in Africa.