SUBCONSCIOUS SYNCRETISM AMONG YORUBA CHRISTIANS IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA
This study investigated into common subconscious traditional beliefs among Yoruba Christians in Ondo State, Nigeria. The study adopted a qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of pastors regarding the interaction between Christian faith and traditional Yoruba beliefs. The population comprised pastors from selected Pentecostal and Orthodox churches across Ondo State. A purposive sampling technique, complemented by simple random sampling, was used to select sixty (60) pastors from the three senatorial districts of the state. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that beliefs in ancestral spirits, destiny, witchcraft, spiritual forces, traditional medicine, and ritual practices remain prevalent among many Yoruba Christians despite their Christian profession. The study further found that participation in certain traditional festivals, reliance on charms for protection, and consultation of traditional spiritual practices continue to exist in subtle forms, reflecting the persistence of subconscious syncretism. It recommends the strengthening of discipleship programmes, enhanced theological education on African Traditional Religion and contextual theology, and continuous pastoral guidance to assist believers in harmonizing their cultural identity.
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