TOPIC: FACTORS AFFECTING THE GROWTH OF THE URBAN CHURCHES OF THE DIOCESE OF LWERU WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO RUBUNGO PARISH IN MULEBA DISTRICT
BY

ANOLD EBYAKAGONZA EDWARD
J21B09/001

A RESEARCH SUBMITTED TO BISHOP TUCKER SCHOOL OF DIVINITY AND THEOLOGY IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE BACHELOR OF DIVINITY AT UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

JULY 2023

DECLARATION
I, ANOLD EBYAKAGONZA EDWARD, hereby declare that this is my original work and it has never been submitted for academic purpose in any other University.  
Signature………………………………………………………
Date……………………………………………………………
APPROVAL
This is to certify that this Research entitled “The factors affecting the growth of urban churches of the Diocese of Lweru with special reference to Rubungo Parish in Muleba District” has been submitted and has been recommended with my approval as University Supervisor as part of the requirements for the award of Bachelor of Divinity at Uganda Christian University.
Signature……………………………………………….
Date……………………………………………………...
REV. CAN. DR. ASSOC. PROF. ELLY KANSIIME
UNIVERSITY SUPERVISOR
DEDICATION
This work is dedicated to all my family members especially my wife Joana Ferdinand, my daughters; Annabella and Judith for the moral, spiritual and financial support that they gave me at all stages of my studies. Your support and care gave me a positive transformation in life and may the Almighty God bless you abundantly.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I am grateful to the Almighty God who has given me life and enabled me to overcome all sorts of obstacles and enabled me to complete this research dissertation successfully.
To my University Supervisor Rev. Can. Dr. Assoc. Prof. Elly Kansiime, your guidance, suggestions, constructive criticisms and encouragements at all stages during the course of this research dissertation have all been intellectually resourceful and supportive without which I would not have completed. May God bless you.
I am also grateful to the Christians of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru for providing me with information without any hesitation and delays.
My acknowledgement with deep gratitude goes to all my friends for their academic and moral support especially their words of encouragement that made this research dissertation a success, may the Almighty God reward them with joy and peace.
Finally special appreciation goes to my Diocesan Bishop the Rt. Rev. Godfrey Mbelwa who has been so supportive and concerned. Again, my thanksgiving goes to CMS who have been supporting me throughout the time I have been doing this dissertation and may God bless them.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION	i
APPROVAL	ii
DEDICATION	iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT	iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS	v
LIST OF TABLES	viii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS	ix
DEFINITION OF THE KEY TERMS	x
ABSTRACT	xii
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION	1
1.1.0 Introduction	1
1.1.1 The Background of the Study	1
1.1.2 Statement of the Problem	1
1.1.3 Purpose of the Study	2
1.1.4 The Specific Objectives of the Study	2
1.1.5 Research Questions	2
1.1.6 The Scope of the Study	2
1.1.7 Justification of the Study	3
1.1.8 The Significance of the Study	3
1.1.9 The Limitations	4
1.1.10 Delimitations	4
1.2.0 Literature Review	5
1.2.1 How can the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L	5
1.2.2 Involvement of the growth to the Church of Rubungo Parish in D/L	7
1.2.3 Factors Affecting the Growth of the Urban Churches of D/L in Rubungo Parish	13
1.3.0 Research Methodology	14
1.3.1 Research Design	15
1.3.2 Population of the Study	15
1.3.3 Sampling Methods/Techniques	15
1.3.4 Sample Size	15
1.3.5.0 Data Collection Methods	16
1.3.5.1 The Primary Data	16
1.3.5.2 The Secondary Data	16
1.3.6.0 Data Collections Instruments	16
1.3.6.1 Questionnaires	16
1.3.6.2 Interview Guide	16
1.3.7 Data Collection Procedures	17
1.3.8 Analysis Techniques	17
1.3.9 Validation of Research Instrument	17
CHAPTER TWO: HOW THE CHURCH GROWTH INFLUENCE RUBUNGO PARISH IN THE DIOCESE OF LWERU	19
2.0 Introduction	19
2.1 Response Rate	19
2.2 Background Information of Respondents	20
2.3 Findings on how the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.	22
2.3.2 Analysis of the findings	22
2.3.3 Interpretation of the Findings	23
CHAPTER THREE: IDENTIFICATION OF THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH OF RUBUNGO PARISH IN THE DIOCESE OF LWERU	24
3.0 Introduction	24
3.1 The findings on Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru	24
3.2 The Analysis of the Findings	25
3.3 The Interpretation of the Findings	25
CHAPTER FOUR: THE FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE CHURCH GROWTH OF RUBUNGO PARISH IN THE DIOCESE OF LWERU	27
4.0 Introduction	27
4.1 The Findings on Factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru	27
4.2 The Analysis of the findings	28
4.3 The Interpretation of the Findings	28
CHAPTER FIVE: THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION	31
5.0 Introduction	31
5.1.0 The meaning of the Church growth	31
5.1.1 The Church Growth	31
5.2.0 Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru	32
5.2.1 Preaching of the Word	32
5.2.2 The fellowship of believers	33
5.2.3 Prayer	33
5.3.0 The factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.	34
5.3.1 Scattering due to Persecution	34
5.3.2 Prosperity Gospel	34
5.3.3 Conflict among the believers	35
5.3.4 Sin among believers	36
CHAPTER SIX: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND   RECOMMENDATIONS	37
6.0 Introduction	37
6.1.0 Summary of Major Findings	37
6.1.1 How the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru	37
6.1.2 Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru	38
6.1.3 The factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru	39
6.2 Conclusions	40
6.3 Recommendations	40
6.4 Areas of Future Research	41
REFERENCE	42
APPENDICES	44
APPENDIX I: QUESTIONNAIRE	44
APPENDIX 2: INTERVIEW GUIDE	46
APPENDIX 3: RECOMMENDATION LETTER	47

LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1: Response rate ………………………………………………………………….…….19
Table 2.2: Background Information of respondents …….……………………………….…..... 20
Table 2.3: How the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the D/L………….……….….22
Table 2.4: Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the D/L………….24
Table 2.5: Factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the D/L…………….....27

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
ACT:	Anglican Church of Tanzania
CMS:	Church Missionary Society
D/L:	Diocese of Lweru
UCU:	Uganda Christian University

DEFINITION OF THE KEY TERMS
In this study, the key terms which has been used throughout in this research are as follows;
Church: According to Weil Roger, “the Greek word for church is ekklesia. It means those who are called out, or called together, for a particular purpose…., Christians are called to assemble together in his Name for prayer, praise, edification, evangelism and mutual help; this is the nature of the church.”  Grudem adds by saying the church is “the community of all believers for all time.” Carlos G. Martin, professor of Mission and Church Growth, states, “Church is a local community of Christians voluntarily congregated, correctly baptized, and properly organized, which meets to worship God, observe the ordinances, and carry out the Great Commission of Jesus Christ at home and abroad.”
Diocese: “a district under the pastoral care of a bishop in Christian Church.”
Leadership: is the process of influence utilized to mobilize an individual or group of followers to achieve universal goals and objectives and encompasses all functions of management. This includes planning, organizing, the establishment of organizational direction, communication of vision, staffing, cultivation of workplace ethics, equity, ethos, and the development of present and future organizational leaders
Parish: According to Thomas, the parish is a “definite community of the Christian faithful established on a stable basis within a particular church.”  Or “a small administrative district with its own church and clergy”
ABSTRACT
This study examined the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches of the Diocese of Lweru with special reference to Rubungo Parish in Muleba District. The objectives of the study were; to determine how the church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L, to identify the growth of the church of Rubungo Parish in D/L and to find out the factors that affect the church growth of Rubungo Parish in D/L. Both qualitative and quantitative designs using a sample of 50 respondents was adopted. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used to select the respondents and data was collected using well designed structured questionnaire and interview guide. Findings revealed that 47.1% of the respondents said that listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded is the only way how the church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. It was also indicated that 23.5% of the respondents identified good leadership as the growth of the church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. In addition, findings also indicated that 23.5% of the respondents said that conflicts in Church is a factor that affects the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. In conclusion, the findings of the study indicated that listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded is the only way how the church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. Good leadership is the growth of the church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. In addition, conflicts in Church are a major factor that affects the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. The study recommends that the Rubungo Parish should focus on listening and learning from others who have succeeded in Church growth as the only way to influence the growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. The study also recommends that there should be good leadership in Rubungo Parish that can stimulate the growth of the church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. In addition, there should be strict mechanisms of conflicts resolution in the Church in a bid to foster church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1.0 Introduction
This research attempts to discuss the factors affecting the growth of the urban churches of the Diocese of Lweru (D/L) especially to Rubungo Parish. This chapter discussed the following parts; the Problem and its Setting; the Literature Review; the Research Methodology and concluding with a chapter summary.
1.1.1 The Background of the Study
Throughout the centuries, the Church has been wining people to Christ by confronted and controlled message of Christ. Among the people who were converted by the gospel in 1917 through CMS missionaries were people in Muleba area where the Mukama Ntale became a Christian and gave part of his land for the Church and in 1923, Rubungo Church was built and in 1925, it became a parish under Kagera Diocese.
In 2006 the D/L was born from Kagera Diocese and Rubungo became a Cathedral and since that year people have been welcomed, baptized, confirmed in this Parish but it seems there is low growth in participation of Sunday services, fellowship and Church growth while the number increases in the church book records. Church development projects are still poor and there may be some reasons or factors affecting the growth of this Parish which the researcher had to research on and find out the solution towards the challenges.
1.1.2 Statement of the Problem
The Parish of Rubungo Anglican in D/L seems not growing in either spiritual matters or physical matters. The idea is to get the solution of these challenges towards the church growth. Therefore, this research intended to get some reasons why this parish is not growing by finding the factors affecting the growth of this parish comparing with other Anglican parishes in rural areas in the D/L and providing some solutions on how the Parish of Rubungo can grow from where it is through collections gathered by the researcher.
1.1.3 Purpose of the Study
The main purpose of this study was to examine the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches of the Diocese of Lweru with special reference to Rubungo Parish in Muleba District.
1.1.4 The Specific Objectives of the Study
 i.	To determine how the church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L.
 ii.	To identify the growth of the church of Rubungo Parish in D/L.
 iii.	To find out the factors that affect the church growth of Rubungo Parish in D/L.
1.1.5 Research Questions
This research answered the following questions:
 i.	How does the church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L?
 ii.	How can the church of Rubungo Parish identify its growth in the D/L?
 iii.	What are the factors that affect the church growth of Rubungo Parish in D/L?
1.1.6 The Scope of the Study
The research was carried out in Rubungo Parish, in the Diocese of Lweru in the Anglican Church of Tanzania which has two churches settled in Muleba district in North West of Tanzania which geographically covers an area of approximately 3,518 square kilometers.
The study specifically focused on exploring the factors affecting the growth of urban Churches. The study also determined how the church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L, identified the growth of the church of Rubungo Parish in D/L and found out the factors that affect the church growth of Rubungo Parish in D/L. The study covered the period between January to March 2023.
1.1.7 Justification of the Study
The study was expected to create knowledge of church growth among the Christians in Rubungo Parish, in the Diocese of Lweru in the Anglican Church of Tanzania. It was also meant to expose the factors affecting the church growth in the parish, their challenges, reminding them and giving an advice on the best way to be used to make church grow in Rubungo Parish. This study focused on encouraging all the members in this parish to be participants in bringing development in the parish by supporting themselves, knowing God and spreading the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ so that the whole parish grows spiritual and physical growth. Also, study may help in sharing with church leaders on how they can play their part to bring development to their church and themselves. This may be through sharing the results of the finding of the study with relevant stakeholder and the community at large through writing, church services, public gatherings through the ministry of a researcher. 
1.1.8 The Significance of the Study
The importance of undertaking this research, first, was to affirm the researcher with a solid knowledge of understanding the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches. After being researched, it was expected to bring the solution towards the factors affecting the Church growth to the Rubungo Parish in D/L and may help the researcher in his ministry how to overcome these challenges in the future.
The study may show how the researcher has satisfied the academic requirements for the award of a Bachelor of Divinity at Uganda Christian University.
The study may help Christians to understand the Challenges facing Church growth of Rubungo Parish and know how to deal with these challenges.
The study may help the Church minister of Rubungo Parish to realize these challenges stopping their Churches from growth and know how to solve these challenges and develop their ministry in Churches.
Lastly, the study may help to answer some questions of people about the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches to the Rubungo Parish in the D/L.
1.1.9 The Limitations
The researcher faced some challenges which had to be overcome in order to come up with the needed information for the study.
 i.	Time was not friendly to the respondents because it was the season for cultivation and many went back in villages for farming. Some because they are business people were traveling for buying and selling goods, and others were busy in their shops with costumers. 
 ii.	The researcher was aware with the challenge of some respondents who were giving some false information and sometimes hide the information because some were pretending to be busy with business and works. 
 iii.	Some questions given to some people were not brought back on time and others were not brought back at all. 
 iv.	Sometimes some people were demanding money to give information needed by the researcher. 
1.1.10 Delimitations
In order to succeed in this study, the researcher did the following;
 i.	When the time was not friendly to the respondents because of the season for cultivation, business period and time for transport the researcher found every opportunity to get the respondents even making an appointment with the respondent.
 ii.	Although the researcher was aware with the challenge of deceiving respondents, the researcher was ignoring the information after realizing that the information given is not true but without telling the respondents because some respondents were not giving the right information and ask, why, how or what, and sometimes hide the information because some were pretending to be busy with business and works.
 iii.	Because some questions given to different people were not be brought back on time and others were not even brought back at all. However, the researcher was being patient with all kind of respondents and found different ways to collect the information needed.
 iv.	 Sometimes some people demanded money to give information needed by the researcher. To such kinds the researcher convinced them that the research is not to be traded out for money but just for academic purpose. Otherwise, the researcher mobilized some money from people for transport and other costs needed to accomplish the research.
1.2.0 Literature Review
The literature was reviewed under the three objectives which are: to determine how the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L, to identify the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in D/L and to find out the factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in D/L.
1.2.1 How can the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L
According to Northouse, “Servant leaders emphasize improving the well-being of their followers, building community, and developing people by modeling Christlike behavior. A positive attitude coupled with a faithful commitment to serve others is fundamental to this leadership model. These pastors believe that a ministry candidate grows stronger, healthier, and more autonomous as they focus on serving others. Like other leadership models, servant leaders seek to empower their followers by giving them the freedom to make decisions and be self-sufficient. However, the overarching goal for this leadership model is to create healthy Church environs that can enhance follower and organizational performance, stimulate growth, and make a significant impact on the communities and cities in proximity to the Church.”
On the meaning of Church Samuel Kunhiyop says, “The concept of the Church as a community also resonates with Africans because of the scope of this community. It includes all believers worldwide and each local community (Church) and is also connected to the past (believer who have died) and to the future (those who have yet to be born spiritually).  This way of seeing the Church acknowledges the role of our spiritual ancestors. These ancestors are the dead (Hebrew and Christian) who are interested in our lives and exert influence over them, serving as examples and encouragement for us. Hebrews 12:1 talks of them when it speaks of the “witnesses that surround us”, referring to the heroes of the faith whose names are listed in Hebrews 11)).” As Dever Mark says, “church does not simply refer to an organizational unit of any particular religion….but is a thoroughly Christian word… the church is primarily a body of people who profess and give evidence that they have been saved by God’s grace alone, for his glory alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.”
Hazlitt William adds, “The true church is an assembly or congregation depending on that which does not appear, nor may be comprehended in mind, namely, God’s Word; what that says, they believe without addition, giving God the honor.”
Also, Tows says, “the term “Church Growth” is associated with evangelism and/or missionary enterprises that imply outreach to the lost and their incorporation into a church, hence causing local church growth” (Towns, 1986, 63).
According to C. Peter Wagner, Church Growth is “all that is involved in bringing men and women who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ into fellowship with Him and into responsible Church membership” (Wagner, 1972, p. 12).
1.2.2 Involvement of the growth to the Church of Rubungo Parish in D/L   
The True Preaching of the Word of God
Berkhof states that “the true preaching of the word is the great means for maintaining the Church and for enabling her to be the mother of the faithful.” Also Mark Dever adds this; “Spiritual growth is a solidly biblical concept. It isn’t only Americans who are concerned about growth; it isn’t just something about our national culture. It is an idea that’s in the Bible and from as far back as creation itself, … A church in which there is expositional preaching will be a church that encourages Christian growth. God’s World is what we need if we are to grow. The culture around us won’t tell us what we most need.”
Furthermore, in support of spirituality as the first priority, Carlos G. Martin lists some realistic principles of church growth: (1) Spiritual renewal precedes and accompanies Church growth; (2) a correct theology precedes true growth; (3) growth occurs when emphasis is placed upon presence, proclamation and persuasion evangelism; (4) Church growth happens when spiritual gifts are identified and employed through significant ministries; and (5) Church growth is directly proportional to the number of members involved in witnessing (Martin, 1995, p. 20).
Prayers
According to Roger’s book says “The early church learnt to depend upon God for its very survival through united prayer (acts 4:24-31). When their leader, Peter, was put in prison he was miraculously delivered in answer to the united prayers of the church (Acts12:5-11). Prayer is a mighty weapon and the church learns to use it against all its enemies. Prayer expresses the fact that we are completely dependent upon God for all our needs. Jesus often prayed to his father and taught his follower to do the same. He told us to do so all times (Luke 18:1), privately (Matthew 6:6), and with others (Matthew 18:19-20). He was emphasized that faith in God’s ability to answer prayer is essential if we want to receive answers from him (Matthew 21: 21-22). Prayer must always be made in the name of Christ (John 14:13), and our requests must be in accordance with God’s revealed will (1 John 5:14).”
Samuel Kunhiyop in his book supports the “Prayer is an important aspect of the work of the community of God. It includes confession of sins (Ps 32:5; Ezra 10:1; 1 John 1:9), supplication (Ps 30:8; Eph 6:18; Ph 4:6), adoration and thanks giving (Eph 5:19-20) and intercession (Jas 5:16). Intercession is prayer offered by a believer on behalf of someone else. We can pray effectively for others because the church is a priesthood of believers (Rev 5:10). The New Testament contains many examples of intercessory prayers (Rom 15:5-6; 13; 2 Cor 13:7; Eph 3:16-19; 6:18; 1 Thes. 3:10-13; 5:23; 2 Thes. 2:17; 3:5-6; Heb 13:21.”
Evangelism
As Millard says “The topic emphasized in both accounts of Jesus’s last words to these disciples is evangelism. In Matthew 28:19 he instructs them, “Therefore go and   make disciples of all nations.” In Acts 1:8 he says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth,” This was the final point Jesus made to his disciples. It appears that he regarded evangelism as the very reason for their being. The call to evangelize is a command. Having accepted Jesus as Load, The Disciples had brought themselves under his rule and were obligated to do whatever he asked.” 
Samuel Kunhiyop adds “The Church is commanded to teach out to win people to Christ. Jesus said…. (Matt 28:18-20; see also Acts I:8). Jesus gave this command not only to pastors, missionaries and evangelists but to all his disciples, who are all to be witness to Christ’s offer of salvation to eternal life. The Lausanne Covenant of 1974 declared, “We affirm that Christ sends his redeemed people into the world as the Father sent him, and that this calls for a similar deep and costly penetration of the world. We need to break out of our ecclesiastical ghettos and permeate non- Christian society.”54 The Lausanne Manila Manifesto added, “Every Christian congregation is a local expression of the Body of Christ and has same responsibilities for the spread of the gospel”55.”
Also, Thom Rainer said that “true church growth takes place when ‘Great Commission’ disciples are added and are evidenced by responsible church membership” (Rainer, 1993, p. 21)
Willingness to serve and Adaptability
Millard states that, “Jesus stated that his purpose in coming was not to be served, but to serve (Matt. 20:28). In becoming incarnate he took upon himself the form of a servant (Phil. 2:7). “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and become obedient to death – even on a cross!” (v.8). the church must display a similar willingness to serve. It has been placed in the world to serve lord and the world, not to be exalted and have its own needs and desires satisfied. Although the church may attain great size, wealth, and prestige that is not its purpose.”
Adaptability: He continues saying “The church must also be versatile and flexible in adjusting its methods and procedures to the changing situations of the world in which it finds it. It must go where needy persons are found, even if that means a geographical or cultural change. It must not cling to all its old ways. As the world to which it is trying to minister changes, the Church will have to adapt its ministry accordingly, but without altering its basic direction.”.

Serving Gifts
According to Eric Wright, he said “Serving gifts demonstrate a propensity to serve humbly and happily. The endow believers with the spiritual to demonstrate Christian love in practical ways. Helpfulness is the general spiritual gift of those who are especially sensitive to, and quick to reach out to meet practical needs, whatever they may be. It involves the talent or training to do practical things like painting, finance, cooking – or a host of other things. It may be just as surely manifest in a general spirit of humble and happy helpfulness. Those with the gift of hospitality generously use their home and possessions to provide a warm atmosphere of openness and acceptance conducive to making strangers, new Christians, immigrants in need all kinds of people - feel at home.
Giving is that Sprit-produced ability to view finances and material resources as a steward ship – a trust from god to be used wisely, generously, cheerfully and systematically in the furtherance of Gods purposes on an individual, local or world-wide scale. The gift of mercy is that sprit – produced the compassion for those in misery or distress that overflows in an abundance of cheerful and practical help for those who are poor sick, lonely bereft or unfortunate. Those with this gift manifest abundant empathy.
Administration or leadership is a sprit – produced ability to serve the lord and his people by taking a vision of what should be breaking it down in to goals and objectives, evaluating present conditions, planning what to do motivating others to take part, and organizing and directing the resultant work until the plan is brought to completion.
Those with the gift of faith, mountain-moving faith, feel a deep dissatisfaction with present conditions. Glimpse a vision of what God can do, face seemingly insurmountable obstacles and yet perceive that God will overcome the impossible.
The gift of discernment is that spiritual ability to discriminate between truth and error in teaching, between good and evil in conduct and between genuine and hypocritical expressions of the Christian faith. It sometimes involves recognizing demonic influence in individuals or groups.”
The Teaching
Again, Wright says “Specifically, Christian teaching aims at change, the transformation of redeemed sinners from the inside out. Teaching will be complete only when every believer is conformed to the image of Christ. Good teachers help us to achieve that goal by targeting change in four in four areas…”
Happiness and Love
According to Gebre Worancha “(1) There must be a climate of happiness and loving God and one another in the church; (2) the church must have a Bible-centered atmosphere that demonstrates by its regular and continuous Bible studies; (3) the members of the church must be enthusiastic and become the cause for maintaining enthusiasm; (4) the church must be evangelistic and zealous to win lost souls for Christ; (5) a growing church should be able to claim backslidden members; (6) a growing church should have great faith to practice its vision; (6) a growing church should be a praying church that prays for its spiritual growth and for God’s work throughout the world; and (8) a growing church believes in the Holy Scripture — “Scripture and Scripture alone”—and do and live what it says (Mt 7:21; Lu 6:46; 11:28; Rom 2:13; 1Jo 3:7 Jam 1:22).”
1.2.3 Factors Affecting the Growth of the Urban Churches of D/L in Rubungo Parish
No proper leadership and Discipline which lead to sin
Roger said “Where there is no proper leadership and discipline, sin and folly will, is uncontrolled, destroy any Church. We see that when the church in Corinth was in danger of being destroyed by unruly internal divisions, pride and immorality, Paul had to exercise strong and severe discipline in order to restore harmony and save it from destroying itself.”
Wright Eric adds “Spiritual death is both connected with physical death and distinguished from it. It is the separation of the entire person from God, as a perfectly holy being, cannot look upon sin or tolerate its presence. Thus, sin is a barrier to the relationship between God and humans, bringing them under God’s judgment and connection.”
Also, Worancha adds, “the following abridgments are Church growth affecting factors: Ignorance, carnal mindedness, prayerlessness, lack of Bible study, lack of unity, lack of finance, leadership problems, lack of strategy for evangelism, lack of the power of the Holy Spirit, lack of commitment, lack of good management & transparency, sin in the church, people-blindness, theological deviation, arrested spiritual development (materialism, nominalism, tribalism, self-centeredness), and the biggest of all, in Africa particular, lack of nurturing to the newly baptized” (Worancha, 2009, pp. 190-252).
Conflict
O. C. Isom II states, “The most common disease that infects the Church today is conflict…. this disease called “conflict” is caused by the transferring of words, such as, “We’ve never done it that way before, so why is the pastor going this way?” and other negative and destructive words…this sinful spirit is an evil disease that has spread and wiped away so much unity in churches in the Body of Christ. God looks at the Church as a body.”
Lack of Love
Isom adds “The reason why some people are leaving Churches today is because they feel they are not being spiritual nourished, and they are tired of being in a Church where there is only chaos and no love”
The Absence of Church Discipline
Isom says “the declining Church discipline is perhaps the most visible failure of the contemporary Church. No longer concerned with maintaining purity of confession or lifestyle, the contemporary Church sees itself as a voluntary association of autonomous members, with minimal moral accountability to God, much less to each other.”
1.3.0 Research Methodology
This section presents the methodology which was employed during the study. It looks at research design and approach, the population, sample and sampling procedures, data collection methods, data collection instruments, data collection procedures, data analysis techniques and how instruments were validated.
1.3.1 Research Design 
Research design is the framework that has been created for researcher’s questions to seek answers. It is an arrangement of collecting and analyzing data in relevance to research economy in procedure. In this study, the researcher used qualitative and quantitative material which shows in detail the description of interviewing people and finding the information.
This design has found the factors affecting the growth of the urban churches of the D/L especially to Rubungo Parish in Muleba District and it has written the information that is why the researcher used also the qualitative method collecting and analyzing data.
1.3.2 Population of the Study
The study population as an entire group a researcher wants to study. The researcher gathered the information from members of Rubungo Parish in D/L. The study considered the clergy, evangelists, church elders, youth leaders, Mother Union leaders, and Sunday school leaders as well as choir leaders.
1.3.3 Sampling Methods/Techniques 
Sampling is the way of selecting people to participate in the study and the sample size refers to the act of choosing the small group of participants who actually act in the investigation. Because of the large population in Rubungo Parish, the researcher decided to use simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Simple random sampling method was selected for the purpose of saving time and getting what was intended. Purpose sampling technique was used on key persons like the clergy, evangelists, church elders, mothers’ union leaders and youth leader. Purpose sampling technique was used since it gives firsthand information.
1.3.4 Sample Size
The researcher targeted a sample of 50 respondents from Rubungo Parish. 
1.3.5.0 Data Collection Methods 
Data collection is “the way of collecting the information which is then used by a researcher to achieve an accurate picture for the research project.” The researcher used both primary and secondary information in carrying out the study.
1.3.5.1 The Primary Data
Concerning the primary sources, data was collected through direct contact with the respondents, personal interviews and through questionnaires on factors affecting the urban churches of the D/L especially to Rubungo Parish in Muleba.
1.3.5.2 The Secondary Data
The secondary sources were used from the already available data collected and analyzed by other researchers. The researcher used published data available in books, journals, newspapers, reports and other resources like the internet about the topic of the study.
1.3.6.0 Data Collections Instruments
1.3.6.1 Questionnaires
This is where the researcher used unstructured (open-ended) questions which allowed the respondent to answer in his/her own words even if their answers found were quite unexpected. The researcher chose to use this because it was easy to get answers from respondent.
1.3.6.2 Interview Guide
In this case the researcher had his personal interviews where he collected the information by asking questions to the individuals in face-to-face meetings and also used mobile communications interviews. This was used when it was impossible to conduct personally with the respondent and depended with whom the researcher expects to ask.
1.3.7 Data Collection Procedures
The researcher asked for permission letter for conducting research from relevant authorities of UCU-Mukono. The letters helped the researcher to carry out his research without hesitation and was able to make appointments with different offices, churches leaders and individuals. The researcher developed a self-administered questionnaire to help him to collect data.
1.3.8 Analysis Techniques
The researcher analyzed the data in statistical technique. The researcher employed analytical techniques in organizing collected information in a nutshell and manageable proportions easy to interpret and presentable result manner. The researcher was clearly able to cross check relevant and appropriate form, data, editing and modifying them into relation to the study. The researcher tabulated the data through table so as to get frequency percentage for presentable information. After that, the findings were then documented for submission to the University as a requirement for the award of a Bachelor of Divinity.
The researcher was sure that all information that he had received or given by the respondents was confidential. This means that the information was not given or published to everyone but only for the purpose of helping the D/L purposely Rubungo Parish to come out with the solution from the challenges facing the church growth.
1.3.9 Validation of Research Instrument
The research techniques were valid to the researcher because it led the researcher to obtain credible, correct and relevant information pertaining. 
Qualitative approach was valid to the study because it was likely to be used in order to obtain precise information like emotional and feelings, thoughts, and metaphors on factors affecting the growth in the urban churches in D/L to Rubungo Parish-Muleba.
Quantitative approach was helpful in correcting numerical information appropriate to the study because it focused in analyzing figures related to factors affecting the growth in the urban churches especially in Rubungo Parish-Muleba.

CHAPTER TWO: HOW THE CHURCH GROWTH INFLUENCE RUBUNGO PARISH IN THE DIOCESE OF LWERU
2.0 Introduction
This chapter deals with presentation of research findings, analysis and interpretation of How the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. The chapter presents background information of the respondents, followed by presentation of study objective by the researcher through use of questionnaires and interviews, presentation of data in table forms, and computation of the response rate.
2.1 Response Rate
The study targeted a sample of 50 respondents and all the questionnaires were issued. However, only 34 questionnaires were returned as fully answered and complete. This denotes a percentage response rate of 68%.
Table 2.1: Response rate
	Number of respondents 	Percentage rate	
Total number of questionnaires issued	50	100%	
Actual number of Questionnaires returned fully answered	34	68%	
Questionnaires not returned and fully answered	16	32%	
Source: Primary Data 2023
From table 2.1 above, out of the 50 questionnaires administered, only 34 were returned as fully answered, giving a response rate of 68%. The study believes it was a good representation for the study since more than half of the respondents were able to provide the necessary information for the study.
2.2 Background Information of Respondents
Background data was collected regarding age, sex, and occupation and education level. The table below gives the details indicating the descriptive statistics for the different background information of the respondents. 
Table 2.2: Background Information of respondents

Information	Category	Frequency	Percentage	
Age	18-35 years	12	35.3	
	36-45 years	6	17.6	
	46 years and above	16	47.1	
	Total	34	100	
Sex	Male	14	41.2	
	Female	20	58.8	
	Total	34	100	
Occupation	Priest	1	2.9	
	Laity	2	5.9	
	Evangelist	2	5.9	
	Mother’s Union leader	2	5.9	
	Youth	15	44.1	
	Church elder	12	35.3	
	Total	34	100	
Education level	None	7	20.6	
	Primary	16	47.1	
	Secondary	5	14.7	
	Tertiary 	4	11.7	
	University	2	5.9	
	Total	34	100	
Source: Primary Data 2023
The above table 2.2 indicates that majority of the respondents 47.1% were 46 years and above, 35.3% were within the age bracket of 18-35 years while only 17.6% were in the age bracket of 36-45 years. This implies that majority of the respondents were 46 years and above, meaning that the respondents were mature enough to avail the necessary information in relation to the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches in the Diocese of Lweru at Rubungo Parish.
From table 2.2 above, majority of the respondents 58.8% were female and 41.2% were male. This implies that females were more than males. This was attributed to the fact that women tend to be more available than men since some men have a lot of engagements due to their tight work schedule.
Table 2.2 reveals that majority of the respondents 44.1% were youth, followed by Church elder 35.3%, 5.9% were Mother’s Union leaders, 5.9% were Evangelist, 5.9% were Laity whereas only 2.9% were Priests. This implies that most respondents were youth and church elder who were more knowledgeable and in better position to provide the needed information on the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches in the Diocese of Lweru at Rubungo Parish.
The above table 2.2 also shows that majority of the respondents 47.1% attained primary education, 20.6% did not attain any level of education, 14.7% attained secondary education, 11.7% attained tertiary education while only 5.9% attained University education. This implies that most of the respondents attained primary education while only few attained University education. This means that most of the respondents were able to respond to the questions sufficiently since they had attained some level of education and therefore, were in better position to avail the necessary information for the study regarding the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches in the Diocese of Lweru, Rubungo Parish. 
2.3 Findings on how the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
The first objective of the study was to determine how the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. The respondents were requested to respond to a number of questions regarding how the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in D/L in the Diocese of Lweru. The responses on the questions are summarized in Table 2.3 below;
Table 2.3: How the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
Responses 	Frequency	Percentage	
Listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded	16	47.1	
Proper management of the Church resources	14 	41.1	
Provide opportunities to serve	4	11.8	
Total	34	100	
Source: Primary Data 2023
2.3.2 Analysis of the findings
From table 2.3 above, majority of the respondents 47.1% said that listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded is the only way how the church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 41.1% of the respondents said that proper management of church resources is the only way how the Church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru and 11.8% of the respondents said that the Church needs to provide different opportunities to serve and that could be the best way on how the Church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
2.3.3 Interpretation of the Findings
This implies that listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded is the only way how the Church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru since majority of the respondents gave the same answer. The above findings show some degree of agreement with Samuel Kunhiyop who stated that the concept of the Church as a community also resonates with Africans because of the scope of this community. It includes all believers worldwide and each local community (Church) and is also connected to the past (believer who have died) and to the future (those who have yet to be born spiritually). This way of seeing the Church acknowledges the role of our spiritual ancestors. These ancestors are the dead (Hebrew and Christian) who are interested in our lives and exert influence over them, serving as examples and encouragement for us. Hebrews 12:1 talks of them when it speaks of the “witnesses that surround us”, referring to the heroes of the faith whose names are listed in Hebrews 11)).” As Dever Mark says, “Church does not simply refer to an organizational unit of any particular religion….but is a thoroughly Christian word… the Church is primarily a body of people who profess and give evidence that they have been saved by God’s grace alone, for his glory alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.”

CHAPTER THREE: IDENTIFICATION OF THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH OF RUBUNGO PARISH IN THE DIOCESE OF LWERU
3.0 Introduction 
The second objective of the study was to identify the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. The respondents were requested to respond to a question regarding the identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. 
3.1 The findings on Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
The responses on the question are summarized in Table 3.4 below;
Table 3.4: Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the D/ L
Responses 	Frequency	Percentage	
Good leadership	8	23.5	
Strong faith for the Church	4 	11.8	
Adoration with decoration, full instruments, well conducted service and organized youth choir	1	2.9	
Good management of people with physical disabilities	3	8.8	
Increasing number of believers in Church	5	14.7	
Time management	2	5.9	
The unity among Church leaders and congregation	6	17.7	
Nurturing children, youth and women	4	11.8	
Good place for worship	1	2.9	
Total	34	100	
Source: Primary Data 2023
3.2 The Analysis of the Findings
Table 3.4 revealed that majority of the respondents 23.5% identified good leadership as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 17.7% identified the unity among church leaders and congregation as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 14.7% identified the increasing number of believers in Church as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 11.8% identified the strong faith for the Church as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 11.8% identified nurturing children, youth and women as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 8.8% identified good management of people with physical disabilities as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 5.9% identified time management as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru whereas only 2.9% identified adoration with decoration, full instruments, well conducted service and organized youth choir as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru and 2.9% identified good place for worship as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
3.3 The Interpretation of the Findings
This implies that good leadership was identified as the major aspect of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. This has enhanced the growth of the Church since every member learns from their leaders in the Church of Rubungo Parish. The above findings are in line with Gebre Worancha who stated that; (1) There must be a climate of happiness and loving God and one another in the Church; (2) the Church must have a Bible-centered atmosphere that demonstrates by its regular and continuous Bible studies; (3) the members of the Church must be enthusiastic and become the cause for maintaining enthusiasm; (4) the Church must be evangelistic and zealous to win lost souls for Christ; (5) a growing Church should be able to claim backslidden members; (6) a growing Church should have great faith to practice its vision; (6) a growing Church should be a praying Church that prays for its spiritual growth and for God’s work throughout the world; and (8) a growing Church believes in the Holy Scripture — “Scripture and Scripture alone”—and do and live what it says (Mt 7:21; Lu 6:46; 11:28; Rom 2:13; 1Jo 3:7 Jam 1:22).” The above findings are also in line with Millard who states that, “Jesus stated that his purpose in coming was not to be served, but to serve (Matt. 20:28). In becoming incarnate he took upon himself the form of a servant (Phil. 2:7). “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and become obedient to death – even on a cross!” (v.8). the Church must display a similar willingness to serve. It has been placed in the world to serve Lord and the world, not to be exalted and have its own needs and desires satisfied. Although the Church may attain great size, wealth, and prestige that is not its purpose.” To further support the above findings, some of the respondents interviewed had this to say; 
“Increase of Church Income can be seen as a sign of Church growth since the Church have enough money to run its programs and activities like paying the salaries of ministers on time, constructing the Church building and repairing furniture”.  
“Cooperative in the Church is the key aspect in growth of the Church. When there is cooperation in Rubungo Parish there is Church growth.”

CHAPTER FOUR: THE FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE CHURCH GROWTH OF RUBUNGO PARISH IN THE DIOCESE OF LWERU
4.0 Introduction 
The third objective of the study was to find out the factors that affect the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. The respondents were requested to respond to a question regarding the factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
4.1 The Findings on Factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
The responses on the question are summarized in Table 4.5 below;
Table 4.5: Factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
Responses 	Frequency	Percentage	
The erosion of morals	2	5.9	
Lack of evangelism, new teachings and encouragement	2 	5.9	
Poverty and lack of basic needs among Church members	7	20.6	
Unemployment	5	14.7	
Diseases like Covid 19 caused economy to go down due to restrictions	1	2.9	
Poor Church leadership	3	8.9	
Rise of other denominations in Muleba town	3	8.9	
Conflicts in Church	8	23.5	
Time management	1	2.9	
Not having the long-term plan and short-term plan	1	2.9	
Unmature in Faith	1	2.9	
Total	34	100	
Source: Primary Data 2023
4.2 The Analysis of the findings
Table 4.5 indicates that 23.5% representing majority of the respondents said that conflicts in Church is a factor that affects the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 20.6% said that poverty and lack of basic needs among Church members is a factor affecting the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 14.7% said that unemployment is a factor affecting the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 8.9% said that poor Church leadership is a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 8.9% said that rise of other denominations in Muleba town is a factor affecting the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 5.9% said that the erosion of morals is a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 5.9% said that lack of evangelism, new teachings and encouragement is a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, while only 2.9% of the respondents said that diseases like Covid 19 caused economy to go down due to restrictions and this was a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 2.9% said that  time management is the factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru, 2.9% said that not having the long-term plan and short-term plan is a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru and 2.9% of the respodents said that unmature in faith is a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
4.3 The Interpretation of the Findings
This implies that conflicts in Church is a major factor that affects the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru since majority of the respondents gave same answer. This may arise in situations where the Church leader disagrees with fellow leaders, one group of choirs disagree with another group up to the matter of not sharing the music instruments in the service which cause some Church members not feel comfortable attending in Rubungo Church because some come to worship and satisfy through singing and praising. The above findings are in line with O. C. Isom II who states that “The most common disease that infects the Church today is conflict…. this disease called “conflict” is caused by the transferring of words, such as, “We’ve never done it that way before, so why is the pastor going this way?” and other negative and destructive words…this sinful spirit is an evil disease that has spread and wiped away so much unity in churches in the Body of Christ. God looks at the Church as a body.” The above findings are also in line with Roger who said that “Where there is no proper leadership and discipline, sin and folly will, is uncontrolled, destroy any Church. We see that when the church in Corinth was in danger of being destroyed by unruly internal divisions, pride and immorality, Paul had to exercise strong and severe discipline in order to restore harmony and save it from destroying itself.” Wright Eric also adds that “Spiritual death is both connected with physical death and distinguished from it. It is the separation of the entire person from God, as a perfectly holy being, cannot look upon sin or tolerate its presence. Thus, sin is a barrier to the relationship between God and humans, bringing them under God’s judgment and connection.” The above findings are also in agreement with Isom who stated that “the declining church discipline is perhaps the most visible failure of the contemporary church. No longer concerned with maintaining purity of confession or lifestyle, the contemporary Church sees itself as a voluntary association of autonomous members, with minimal moral accountability to God, much less to each other.” To also support those above findings, some of the respondents interviewed said the following;
“A tendency of taking children in other region for schools which makes the church to remain with few people where by those who were baptized and get confirmation in Rubungo Parish go to other region to study from there hence not come back which reduce the attendance of believers in Sunday and in fellowship”.
“Transferring government workers who are church members that are employed in the government to go in another workplace from Rubungo Parish affects its growth. When there is transfer of people who have been supporting the Church financially, the Church income goes down and makes even lacking monthly salary for Church ministers in Rubungo Parish”.
CHAPTER FIVE: THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION
5.0 Introduction
This chapter presents theological reflection towards the factors that affecting the growth of urban churches by looking on what is the Church growth, the factors making the church grow and the factors that affect the Church from growing and what can be done to make the ministers focus on the Bible solutions to grow the Church.
5.1.0 The meaning of the Church growth
According to the Bible, the word Church has various meanings. Firstly, it refers to a house set apart for public worship and secondly, it refers to the whole body of Christians. It may also refer to a particular denomination of Christians, as well as any group with a common creed, which may not necessarily be Christians. The word Church is Lord in which it was designated the place the apostles and evangelists gathered believers together for worship and mutual support. In the New Testament, it means both the entire body of believers worldwide (Matthew 16:18), and a group of believers in a particular area (Acts 5:11). It also refers to the congregation that meets in a particular house (Romans 16:5), and the general assembly of Christians in heaven (Hebrews 2:12; 12:23). Nevertheless, most of the meanings involve and refer to the Church as a body or group of believers; their differences are only in the location, size or period of existence.
5.1.1 The Church Growth
According to Old Testament the Church Growth is increasing of number of God’s people and knowing God and his decreases and worshiping him. The symptom of church growth is blessings in people’s life. When they followed God’s laws fully, the blessings followed them, but when there were curses it means God’s people didn’t follow God and so curse came as God’s punishment. Exodus 1:7 God’s people increased in number
In the New Testament the Church growth is the increasing number of believers and understanding of Christ in their hearts and continuing in the word of God filled with the Holy Spirit and excessing the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The book of Acts is the book which shows how the Church grown and the factors affected the growth of the Church.
5.2.0 Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
5.2.1 Preaching of the Word
In Acts 2:41; 11:24 when the gospel was proclaimed people were converted and stated increasing and multiplied in number through the gospel. An effective pastor in an urban Church must be mission-oriented developing stronger community outreach programs. This can help the pastor to better understand the needs of the people he/she is leading (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8). For example, mission orientations on caring for the orphans and widows in vulnerable urban communities like Jesus did and highly emphasized by James (James 1:26-27). As James A. Scherer, adds that “these clarify the goodness of having dependence or independence, love or belongingness, self-esteem and self-actualization.” It is making sure that every participant in the Church is enjoying the benefits of being part and parcel of each other. Also, Beth says, “the overall mission of the Church is to win souls for Christ through evangelism strategies. However, to participate in the mission of God is to announce the good news of the kingdom.” This is the mission of being compassionate as well as doing the work of justice which can win the souls of many suffering Christians in urban settings. The most important role of leaders and pastors on the same mission is to be role models in nurturing others those they seek to influence. This can help Christians to grow by means of example and exhortation. This may be seen by viewing 1 Peter 5:3, I Timothy 4:11-12, and Titus 2:7 consecutively.
5.2.2 The fellowship of believers 
In Acts 2:42-47; 4:32, 12:12, the early believers who got converted to Christianity were having fellowship, devoting themselves to the teachings of and sharing their properties, praying together and reading the scripture daily. Through reading the scripture, the people of Berea were equipped to the knowledge of the word of God and prove the teachings of the apostle Paul and others to see if were true (Acts 17:10-12). In Hebrews 10:25 the writer of Hebrews insisted the believers continued in fellowship and gathering.
5.2.3 Prayer
This is one of the reasons which helped the early Church when it faced challenges, it used prayer. Prayer is an act of communicating to the Creator who is above all and when People prayed, the Church continued. For example, in the Book of Acts, apostles used to pray before everything they planned to do like preaching the Gospel, replacing Judas’ position, electing 7 deacons and other activities. So, if the Rubungo Church need to grow, it’s members must pray and depend on God fully. This goes in the line of Samuel Kunhiyop who says that “Prayer is an important aspect of the work of the community of God. It includes confession of sins (Ps 32:5; Ezra 10:1; 1 John 1:9), supplication (Ps 30:8; Eph 6:18; Ph 4:6), adoration and thanks giving (Eph 5:19-20) and intercession (Jas 5:16). Intercession is prayer offered by a believer on behalf of someone else. We can pray effectively for others because the church is a priesthood of believers (Rev 5:10). The New Testament contains many examples of intercessory prayers (Rom 15:5-6; 13; 2 Cor 13:7; Eph 3:16-19; 6:18; 1 Thess 3:10-13; 5:23; 2 Thess 2:17; 3:5-6; Heb 13:21.” 
Weil Roger adds “The early Church learnt to depend upon God for its very survival through united prayer (acts 4:24-31). When their leader, Peter, was put in prison he was miraculously delivered in answer to the united prayers of the church (Acts12:5-11). Prayer is a mighty weapon and the Church learns to use it against all its enemies. Prayer expresses the fact that we are completely dependent upon God for all our needs. Jesus often prayed to his father and taught his follower to do the same. He told us to do so all times (Luke 18:1), privately (Matthew 6:6), and with others (Matthew 18:19-20). He was emphasized that faith in God’s ability to answer prayer is essential if we want to receive answers from him (Matthew 21: 21-22). Prayer must always be made in the name of Christ (John 14:13), and our requests must be in accordance with God’s revealed will (1 John 5:14).”
5.3.0 The factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
5.3.1 Scattering due to Persecution
In Acts 8:1b-3 after Stephen’s death believers scattered due to persecution and Saul started destroying the body of Christ and fear ruled in the heart of believers and the Church lost fellowship, community and some godly men. Although people lost their homes, lives, properties, peace and place of worship, some were courage to keep witnessing the gospel wherever they went for refuge, and this was similar to Kagera region during Amin war many people lost their homes, relatives, properties, peace and so on and this caused the Church of Rubungo Parish to grow slowly.
5.3.2 Prosperity Gospel
In the letter to Galatians 1:6 Paul is astonishing because of the prosperity gospel where people stated following the false gospel. This is one among many factors affecting the Church from growing when the ministers start preaching false gospel like blessings through planting seeds, or protection through salts, oil, water and others. The Rubungo Church need to stick on the right teaching because people who are rooted in the right doctrine, they are able to standard without being taken by other new teachings since it is in urban where there are all kind of teaching. Paul wrote a letter to Timothy to deal with the false gospel as David putts, “the letters were written to deal with the false teachings which was negatively impacting the young Churches.” Paul encourages Timothy to make this clear and this does not stop at his words, but his whole life must bear out what he teaches others. So, he has to watch himself, and watch his teachings. Timothy was to do his best to claim the gospel benefits in greater fullness. He was to fight a good fight as a soldier of God in his pursuit of holiness, his persistence in in service, and in the protection of the gospel. Timothy, like all believers, must focus his adoration on the glorious Christ (1 Timothy 6:11-16).
5.3.3 Conflict among the believers 
In 2 Corinthians 1:11-13 Paul emphases on the unity because disunity brings conflict and Paul wrote to them to tell them that neither for Apollo, nor for Cephas nor for Paul but for Christ. Also, one of the reasons why Paul wrote the letter to Romans was to emphasize unity among believers because Jews and Gentiles were seemed different and Paul wrote to bring them together and show that they are one in Christ. So, as it has been discussed in the findings, that Choirs are disagreeing each other, Church minister with fellow as well as some believers, it is a call through the word of God to live in love with one another as Jesus’ new Command in Matthew 22:36-40 and Paul adds saying “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” [Lev. 19:18] If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other (Gal 5:13-15). This agree with Isom’s point that “The reason why some people are leaving Churches today is because they feel they are not being spiritual nourished, and they are tired of being in a Church where there is only chaos and no love.”
5.3.4 Sin among believers
In the Church sin is another problem stopping the Church from growth. In 1 Corinthians 5:1-5 Paul is warning people who were committing adultery in the Church to be excommunicated. As the discussion above, the Church need discipline sometimes to maintain purity and holiness through preaching the right Gospel, rebuking their sins, and so on. According to this Passage, if the Rubungo Parish need to grow spiritual and be strong in the faith as it has been discussed in the findings, Church members need to confess their sin and live according to their faith and calling. This lines with Isom points that “the declining Church discipline is perhaps the most visible failure of the contemporary Church. No longer concerned with maintaining purity of confession or lifestyle, the contemporary Church sees itself as a voluntary association of autonomous members, with minimal moral accountability to God, much less to each other.”

CHAPTER SIX: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND   RECOMMENDATIONS
6.0 Introduction
This chapter presents summaries of study findings as per the study objectives, conclusions based on those findings and recommendations based on both the study findings and other relevant literature considered necessary and vital to be used in future to improve the study situation.
6.1.0 Summary of Major Findings
This section shows summary of the major findings in accordance with research objectives and questions.
6.1.1 How the Church growth influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
Findings revealed that 47.1% of the respondents said that listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded is the only way how the Church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. It was also established that 41.1% of the respondents said that proper management of Church resources is the only way how the Church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
The above findings show some degree of agreement with to Northouse, “Servant leaders emphasize improving the well-being of their followers, building community, and developing people by modeling Christlike behavior. A positive attitude coupled with a faithful commitment to serve others is fundamental to this leadership model. These pastors believe that a ministry candidate grows stronger, healthier, and more autonomous as they focus on serving others. Like other leadership models, servant leaders seek to empower their followers by giving them the freedom to make decisions and be self-sufficient. However, the overarching goal for this leadership model is to create healthy Church environs that can enhance follower and organizational performance, stimulate growth, and make a significant impact on the communities and cities in proximity to the Church.”
Samuel Kunhiyop who stated that the concept of the Church as a community also resonates with Africans because of the scope of this community. It includes all believers worldwide and each local community (Church) and is also connected to the past (believer who have died) and to the future (those who have yet to be born spiritually).  This way of seeing the Church acknowledges the role of our spiritual ancestors. These ancestors are the dead (Hebrew and Christian) who are interested in our lives and exert influence over them, serving as examples and encouragement for us. Hebrews 12:1 talks of them when it speaks of the “witnesses that surround us”, referring to the heroes of the faith whose names are listed in Hebrews 11)).” As Dever Mark says, “Church does not simply refer to an organizational unit of any particular religion….but is a thoroughly Christian word… the Church is primarily a body of people who profess and give evidence that they have been saved by God’s grace alone, for his glory alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.”
6.1.2 Identification of the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
Findings indicated that 23.5% of the respondents identified good leadership as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. In addition, findings also revealed that 17.7% of the respondents identified the unity among Church leaders and congregation as the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
The above findings are in line with Gebre Worancha who stated that; (1) There must be a climate of happiness and loving God and one another in the church; (2) the Church must have a Bible-centered atmosphere that demonstrates by its regular and continuous Bible studies; (3) the members of the Church must be enthusiastic and become the cause for maintaining enthusiasm; (4) the Church must be evangelistic and zealous to win lost souls for Christ; (5) a growing Church should be able to claim backslidden members; (6) a growing Church should have great faith to practice its vision; (7) a growing Church should be a praying Church that prays for its spiritual growth and for God’s work throughout the world; and (8) a growing Church believes in the Holy Scripture — “Scripture and Scripture alone”—and do and live what it says (Mt 7:21; Lu 6:46; 11:28; Rom 2:13; 1Jo 3:7 Jam 1:22).” The above findings are also in line with Millard who states that, “Jesus stated that his purpose in coming was not to be served, but to serve (Matt. 20:28). In becoming incarnate he took upon himself the form of a servant (Phil. 2:7). “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and become obedient to death – even on a cross!” (v.8). the Church must display a similar willingness to serve. It has been placed in the world to serve lord and the world, not to be exalted and have its own needs and desires satisfied. Although the Church may attain great size, wealth, and prestige that is not its purpose.” To further support the above findings, one of the respondents interviewed had this to say; 
 “Cooperative in the Church is the key aspect in growth of the Church. When there is cooperation in Rubungo Parish there is Church growth”.
6.1.3 The factors that affect the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru
Findings indicated that 23.5% of the respondents said that conflicts in Church is a factor that affects the church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. Findings also revealed that 20.6% of the respondents said that poverty and lack of basic needs among Church members is a factor affecting the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
The above findings are in line with O. C. Isom II who states that “The most common disease that infects the Church today is conflict…. this disease called “conflict” is caused by the transferring of words, such as, “We’ve never done it that way before, so why is the pastor going this way?” and other negative and destructive words…this sinful spirit is an evil disease that has spread and wiped away so much unity in churches in the Body of Christ. God looks at the Church as a body.”
6.2 Conclusions
In conclusion, the findings of the study indicated that listening and ready to learn from others who have succeeded is the only way how the Church growth can influence Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. Good leadership is the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru. In addition, conflicts in Church are a major factor that affects the Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
6.3 Recommendations
The study recommends that the Rubungo Parish should focus on listening and learning from others who have succeeded in Church growth as the only way to influence the growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
The study recommends that there should be good leadership in Rubungo Parish that can stimulate the growth of the Church of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
In addition, there should be strict mechanisms of conflicts resolution in the Church in a bid to foster Church growth of Rubungo Parish in the Diocese of Lweru.
6.4 Areas of Future Research
It is important that other future studies extend to other geographical areas for better understanding of the factors affecting the growth of the urban Churches.
Other studies can also focus on the possible ways of promoting Church growth.

REFERENCE
Berkhof Louis, (1949), Systematic Theology: The Banner of Truth Trust; Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Beth Snodderly and A. Scott Moreau. (2011). Evangelical and Frontier Mission: Perspective on
the Global Progress of the Gospel. Eugene, Oregon, WIPF & STOCK.
David S. Dockery. (1998). The Holman Concise Bible Commentary. B&H Publishing Group:
Nashville, Tennessee.
Dever Mark, (2000), Nine Marks of a Healthy Church, 3rd Ed: Published by Crossway; Wheaton,
Illinois.
Erickson J. Millard, (1983), Christian Theology; 3rd edition: Published Baker, Grand Rapids,
Michigan.
Grudem Wayne, (1994), Systematic Theology, an Introduction to Biblical Doctrine: Inter-Varsity
Press; Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Hazlitt William, (2009), Martin Luther’s Table talk; Luther’s comments on life, the Church and
the Bible: Christian Focus Publications, Geanies House, Scotland.
James A. Scherer, Stephen B. Bevans. (1994). New Directions in Missions and Evangelism 2:
Theological Foundations.
Kunhiyop, W. Samuel, (2012), African Christian Theology: Grand Rapids: Zondervan.
Martin, Carlos G. (1995). Principles and Procedures of Adventist Church Growth. Class notes for
MSSN 600, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Silang, Cavite,
Philippines.

O. C. Isom (2014), Wounds caused by Gossip Attitudes and Conflicts within the Church: Author
House, Bloomington.
Personal Research notes in the third year, 1st Semester (2015), Munguishi Bible College,
Tanzania.
Peter G. Northouse. (2013). Leadership: Theory and Practice, 7th ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.
Rainer, Thom S. (1993). The Book of Church Growth: History, Theology, and Principles.
Broadman Press: Nashville.
Reader’s Digest Wordpower Dictionary: Oxford University Press, London.
The Application Bible Life Study, New International Version edition. (1997). Tyndale House
Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois.
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Thomas A. Baima, (2007), What is a Parish? Canonical, Pastoral, and Theological Perspectives:
Published by the Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications.
Town, Elmer L. (March 1986). The Relationship of Church Growth and Systematic Theology,
Journal of the Evangelical Society, 29(1).
Weil Roger, (2007), Foundations of the Christian Faith: Grace Publications Trust, 7 Arlington
Way, London.
Worancha, Gebre. (2009). I Must Preach This Gospel: God’s Mission and Accountability of His
Church in This End-Time AAMM, Vol. 5. Everlasting Gospel Publishing Association:
Seoul, Korea.

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Wordpower Dictionary. 
APPENDICES
APPENDIX I: QUESTIONNAIRE
 “FACTORS AFFECTING THE GROWTH OF THE URBAN CHURCHES OF THE DIOCESE OF LWERU WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO RUBUNGO PARISH IN MULEBA DISTRICT.”
I, Anold Ebyakagonza Edward, am pursuing a Bachelor of Divinity of Uganda Christian University dealing with the above study topic. I am humbly requesting you to answer all these questions with a lot of sincerity and honesty so that they can help me in accomplishing my project. 
The information you give will be used only for the purpose of this study and is very helpful and I pledge to treat this confidential. Put √ (tick) in the appropriate place and write short understandable explanations where requested in spaces provided.
SECTION A. PERSONAL INFORMATION
1.	Your Name………………………………………………………………….
2.	Your Church ………………………………………………………………….
3. Age……………………………………………………………………………
4. Sex
Male (    )      Female (    )
5. Occupation……………………………………………………………………
6. Educational level 
a) Primary   (     )             b) Secondary    (    )         c) None (    )
SECTION B. QUESTIONS
1. What is the Church Growth?
………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
2. What are the Factors in Growing the Church? 
………………………………………………………………………………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
3. What is the Factors Affecting the Parish from growing?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
4. How does the parish plan to solve the challenges as mentioned?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
5. How do the parish ministers overcome the challenges?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
6. How do the parish leaders in Rubungo Parish involve in church growth? 
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
7. What is the role of the minister in the Parish?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………8. How do the individual people participate in growing the church?
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Thank you for your contribution, may the Lord God bless you.

APPENDIX 2: INTERVIEW GUIDE
I, Anold Ebyakagonza Edward, am pursuing a Bachelor of Divinity of Uganda Christian University dealing with study topic “Factors Affecting the Growth of the Urban Churches of the Diocese of Lweru with special reference to Rubungo Parish in Muleba District.” Kindly you are hereby required to participate in this study by providing the right information by filling the questionnaire. The required information is for academic purpose and for confidentiality will be ensured.
The nature of the questionnaire will involve filling the name of the Church, age bracket, sex and religion. The questions will include the following details;
 1.	What do you mean by the idea of Church growth? 
 2.	Which elements contribute to the Church’s development? 
 3.	What are the limiting factors for the parish’s expansion? 
 4.	What strategies does the parish have in mind to address the problems raised? 
 5.	How do the parish ministers manage the difficulties? 
 6.	How do the parishioners at Rubungo Parish contribute to the development of the Church? 
 7.	What responsibility does the minister serve in the parish? 
 8.	How can each person help the Church grow?