EXAMINING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF ASSEMBLIES OF GOD CHURCH TO THE SOCIO-RELIGIOUS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF NORTHERN CROSS RIVER STATE
This paper examines the contributions of Assemblies of God Church to the socio-religious and economic development of Northern Cross River State. The aim of this paper is to understand the contribution of Assemblies of God Church (AGC) towards the spiritual and economic advancement of the people of Northern Cross River. To achieve the aim of the study, the researcher adopts qualitative research approach by using relevant literatures and interviews as instrument of data collection. The study discovered that the Assemblies of God Church (AGC) has contributed significantly to the socio-religious, educational and economic development of Northern Cross River State through involvement in community-building, charitable initiatives, economic support and empowerment schemes. It identified charitable initiatives such as annual financial support to widows and physically challenged persons. The Ogoja District has an institutionalized empowerment scheme that is aim at economic support of young people within Northern Cross River. Furthermore, the church organizes programmes such as youth’s annual Bible quiz and debate, compulsory Sunday school for all members, and pastoral training and retreats for all clergies. The study commend and recommend Assemblies of God Church efforts towards socio religious and economic development of Northern Cross River State. However, it is important that such efforts be extended beyond members of the church.
Keywords: Assemblies of God Church, Socio-Religious Develogment, Economic Development, Community Transformation, and Northern Cross River State.