Professional Dissertations DMin

Date of Award

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry

College

Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary

Program

Doctor of Ministry DMin

First Advisor

Ernan Norman

Second Advisor

Ronald Rojas

Abstract

Problem

This field research study explored the prevalence of lack of harmony among first and second-generation Dedham Seventh-day Adventist Church members. Consequently, families may be divided, and hard feelings and lost souls. Thus, a fundamental problem is an intergenerational and cultural lack of understanding.

Method

The research was a qualitative phenomenological study based on small groups and their activities. The Dedham Seventh-day Adventist Church provided a sample of 30 members, who were split into small groups of six each. For two weeks, the researcher and church leaders held small-group activities in the fellowship hall to impart the value of cooperation to both the older and younger generations. A survey was administered to participants, and the SurveyMonkey app was used to collect data. Following analysis of the survey responses, suggestions were offered to the Dedham Seventh-day Adventist Church on inspiring members of all ages to partake in worship, study, prayer, and service.

Results

Most respondents (89 percent) believed that youth and adults could collaborate, indicating a high degree of optimism and openness toward intergenerational cooperation. The favorable outcome showed potential for intergenerational collaboration across various sectors and domains. Therefore, the study revealed that involving youth in intergenerational church ministry could help strengthen church community relationships. It could also be a more effective instrument for equipping youth to become active and involved church members now and in the future. Nonetheless, it is essential to continue promoting and supporting initiatives that facilitate and enhance such cooperation and address any obstacles that impede effective collaboration.

Conclusion

Intergenerational programs such as small group activities and blended worship are practical approaches for addressing the lack of harmony between the generations at the Dedham Seventh-day Adventist Church. This project sought, through special activities, to engage all ages and generations in caring, worshiping, learning, praying, and serving.

Subject Area

Intergenerational relations--Religious aspects--Seventh-day Adventists; Conflict of generations; Dedham Seventh-day Adventist Church (Dedham, Mass.); Southern New England Conference of Seventh-day Adventists; General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. North American Division. Atlantic Union Conference. Southern New England Conference

DOI

https://dx.doi.org/10.32597/dmin/778/

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