IMPACT OF PENTECOSTALISM IN IGBOLAND: A HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Abstract

There is no doubt that every religious sect has the potential to revolutionize its host society and Pentecostalism is no exception. In Igboland, the arrival of Pentecostalism has awakened a tremendous yearning for a primal spirituality. The Pentecostal spirituality was highly welcomed among the poor of our society, hence by the majority, since most Igbo Christians are economically poor. This impetus finds support and tremendous enthusiasm among Christians of various denominations and ecclesiastical affinity, since it addresses the raw spiritual desire of men. The boom of Pentecostalism in Igboland is a direct indication to the mainland Churches to reconsider their Christian testimony and proclamation of Jesus Christ, as the Saviour and Redeemer of all people.  The advent of Pentecostalism in Igboland, constitutes a theological and ecclesiological obstacle for many theologians. Adopting the thematic historical approach, with the use of primary and secondary sources, this paper argues that it is indisputable that Pentecostal experience and spirituality have come to stay in Igboland, given their presence in virtually all parts of Igboland since the 1970s. The presence and the realness of the divine power is intrinsic to African worldview. Pentecostalism has also eaten deep into the religious consciousness of the contemporary Igbo society, and its influence and repercussions can be observed across religious strata in the Igbo society. Thus, Igboland is gradually moving into a new religious culture, developing from contemporary Pentecostalism.