Abstract:
Postmodernity is a phenomenon that has been explored extensively in Western
Countries and perhaps in South Africa, but the rest of Africa remains largely ignorant
of this philosophical movement and its impact on people's thinking. This study
explored postmodernity's impact on teens at Nairobi Chapel with a view to enhance
effectiveness in reaching these young people.
The six respondents were between twelve and twenty years of age and were
selected on the basis that they displayed tendencies of postmodernity as highlighted in
the literature. Data were collected through face-to-face, semi-structured interviews.
Eleven interviews were held with the respondents. While the intention was to hold
two interviews per interviewee, this was impossible for one of the respondent. Data
were analyzed using qualitative methods of open, axial, and selective coding.
The study revealed that postmodernity was a major influence in the lives and
minds of urban young people. It suggested teens held truth to be relative and
embraced, at least partially, religious pluralism. The data also exhibited an obvious
struggle with Christianity's exclusivity claims. Further, youth leader's authority over
young people had to be "earned," with an emphasis on rational instruction. However,
the value of community proved strong for these young people thus opening up an
avenue to reach them with the love of Christ and build relationships that will impact
who these young people will grow up to be.
In reviewing the data, recommendations were made to youth department at
Nairobi Chapel and Christian educators who are creating curriculum and materials to
assist in ministering to young people. Postmodernity may be looming threateningly
above us but rather than be afraid we need to take advantage of the values in this new
philosophy that may actually enhance Christianity among our youth.
