Abstract:
This phenomenological study sought to provide information that would show
the relevance of the membership class in assisting those who go through it to lay
Christian foundations for their lives. The study also sought to assist the church with
information that would show whether there was need for the church to evaluate, and,
or revamp its membership class program.
The study indicated that participation in the membership class resulted in
transformation of the spiritual and social aspects of class participants. Regular class
attendance assisted respondents in cultivating their relationship with God. It also
improved their relationship with other people. The study further indicated that
respondents appreciated the class content, teachers, fellow students, church leaders,
family, and the learning environment. However, respondents took issue with the
shallow content, inept teachers, a laity that stood aloof and learning environments that
were not conducive. In spite of these short comings, respondents ended up more
committed to the Friends Church than they were before. Their commitment was seen
in their involvement, and heightened willingness to participate in church activities
and, or leadership.
In view of the findings, the researcher recommended enhancement in the depth
of the content taught in the class, and the inclusion of the history of the Friends
Church-Ngong Road in the class content. He also recommended that only qualified
and available class teachers should be allowed to teach the classes. The researcher
further recommended that there be an improvement in the facilities that were used for
classes.
