Christian Family Values in a Plural Society: A Study in Mbaise, Imo Sstate , Nigeria

Abstract

Values are standards or principles considered to be important to a people. Some of these values are fairness, justice, truth, honesty, prayerfulness, generosity, selfless service, dedication, hard work, affection, agility, calmness, innovation and community service. Though values are not limited to the above mentioned. Forgiveness is also an essential value that must be mentioned in family values. Sources of data for this is via primary sources such as oral interviews, and questionnaires. While the secondary sources adopted are information that already exist through journal, books, internet materials, family association books, Union official records, administrative proceedings such as minutes, newspapers and periodicals. Another approach adopted by the researcher in this work is the sociological approach which deals with the major issues in the family values in Mbaise. The traditional family values and the Christian family values in Mbaise have no conflict, however most traditional values have been eroded in recent times hence vices such as street begging as a means of survival in our society, stealing, armed robbery, kidnapping, Gender based violence, Human trafficking, Divorce, drug abuse, prostitution etc., are now rampant in our society. With the decline of traditional family values which gave rise to the various vices listed above, the researcher is presenting Christian Family values to Mbaise to help solve the numerous problems mentioned above. The adoption of Christian family values in Mbaise area will help promote love among the people. Sincerity, prudence, hard-work, togetherness, forgiveness, empathy, community life, etc., when put together will promote development and peaceful coexistence among contemporary Mbaise people.