Proper understanding of the theology of work: An avenue to the people’s participation in fruitful economic activity: A case study of Lira Cathedral Parish Lira Diocese.

Abstract

This study was carried with the purpose of investigating the influence of proper understanding of the theology of work on effective participation in fruitful economic activity so as to increase the level of development in Lira Parish, Lira Diocese. It was guided by four specific objectives, namely; to show that work is divinely ordered, to show that work is the only sure way to development, to show the significance of reawakening the spirit of work among the Parishioners and finally, to establish the relationship between the theology of work and effective participation in fruitful economic activities.

The research design employed for the case study was a combination of qualitative and quantitative approach. 80 respondents was the sample taken for the study. Four research tools were subsequently used, namely; Questionnaires, Interviews, Observation and Documentary analysis. The research findings exhibited that limited knowledge of the theology of work has contributed to ineffective participation in fruitful economic activity by the parishioners to a great extent. They are not participating fully even given the favourable determinants that we have today. These are; the economic policies, politics, weather conditions and the cultural factors. Other factors have retarded effective work though to a small extent. These are; low payment attached to certain jobs, segregation in job markets, long working hours, irregular payments, poor working relationships, dehumanizing works, and poor working conditions, etc.

Drawing from the findings got from the field and the explanations attached to them, the researcher drew conclusions and made recommendations which basically focused on: proper understanding of the theology of work and proper formation of the different stakeholders responsible for the promotion of effective participation in work. All these are geared to increase effective participation in fruitful economic activity by the parishioners of Lira Cathedral parish.