PROMOTING LAY PARTICIPATION IN THE LIGHT OF APOSTOLICAM ACTUOSITATEM: A PASTORAL STUDY OF THE CONSOLATA PARISHES IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF NAIROBI, KENYA.
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Date
2026-10-27
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THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA
Abstract
This study examined the promotion of lay participation in the Archdiocese of Nairobi in light of Apostolicam Actuositatem, with particular focus on the Kabete and Githurai deaneries. Employing the Pastoral Cycle Method; comprising insertion, social analysis, theological reflection, and pastoral action, the research analysed how socio-cultural, economic, political, and religious factors influence lay involvement in the Church’s mission. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions among clergy and lay faithful. The findings revealed that lay participation, though vibrant, is expressed differently across contexts. In Githurai, participation is largely communal, relational, and grounded in Small Christian Communities, while in Kabete it is structured, professionalized, and often project-based. Despite these strengths, challenges such as clericalism, inadequate formation, socio-economic pressures, and limited structures of co-responsibility hinder the full realization of the lay apostolate. The study concluded that a synodal and integrated pastoral approach is necessary to harmonize these diverse expressions of lay participation. It proposed enhanced lay formation, structural reforms, and inter-deanery collaboration as key strategies for strengthening evangelization. Ultimately, the study affirms that the laity are not passive recipients but co-responsible agents in the Church’s mission.
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Lay participation, Catholic laity, Apostolicam Actuositatem, pastoral ministry, lay apostolate, parish engagement, Catholic Church, Consolata parishes, Archdiocese of Nairobi, Kenya