INCORPORATING DIGITAL EVANGELISM INTO THEOLOGICAL CURRICULA: INSIGHTS FROM ABEL DAMINA’S MINISTRY

INCORPORATING DIGITAL EVANGELISM INTO THEOLOGICAL CURRICULA: INSIGHTS FROM ABEL DAMINA’S MINISTRY

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The rise of digital media has transformed how religious messages are created, distributed, and consumed. Abel Damina’s ministry exemplifies this shift through his strategic use of social-media platforms, live-streamed sermons, and interactive mobile apps to engage both local congregants and global audiences. He integrates digital evangelism training into his leadership workshops, teaching students to produce compelling video content, leverage data analytics to understand audience engagement, and foster online discipleship communities (Schwadel & Anderson, 2022).

 

Pedagogically, embedding digital media competencies within theological education responds to the mixed-media realities of contemporary ministry, equipping graduates to minister effectively in virtual spaces (Clair, 2018). Research in media psychology indicates that digital engagement can enhance sense of belonging and spiritual growth when platforms are used thoughtfully, though it can also contribute to distraction and shallow engagement if misapplied (Arango et al., 2018). Thus, a structured curriculum that balances technical skills with theological grounding is essential.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite widespread recognition of digital tools’ ministry potential, few theological institutions in Africa have formally integrated digital evangelism into their curricula. There is little empirical analysis of how Damina’s digital-first training influences students’ media literacy, evangelistic effectiveness, and ability to maintain theological depth online. Without systematic study, seminaries risk graduating leaders unprepared for the digital dimensions of 21st-century ministry.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To outline the digital-evangelism components of Abel Damina’s ministry training.

 

To evaluate the impact of this training on students’ digital media competencies, audience reach, and theological integrity in online contexts.

 

To formulate curricular guidelines for integrating digital evangelism into theological education programs.

 

1.4 Research Questions

What digital tools, platforms, and pedagogical approaches does Damina employ in his evangelism training?

 

How do trainees assess changes in their ability to create engaging online content and foster virtual faith communities?

 

Which curricular structures best support balanced development of media skills and theological depth?

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

Theological Educators & Curriculum Developers: Insights will inform curriculum design that prepares students for effective digital ministry.

 

Ministry Leaders & Practitioners: Data on best practices can enhance online outreach strategies and community-building efforts.

 

Educational Technology Funders: Findings will guide investment in digital infrastructure and training within theological institutions.

 

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

Scope: Focuses on participants of Abel Damina’s digital-evangelism modules between 2023–2025, including both in-person workshops and online cohorts.

 

Limitations:

 

Rapid Technological Change: Platforms and best practices evolve quickly, potentially outdating aspects of the study.

 

Digital Access Inequities: Variations in internet access and device availability among students may influence training outcomes.

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Digital Evangelism: Use of online platforms and tools to share religious messages and foster spiritual communities.

 

Media Literacy: The ability to critically analyze, create, and communicate content across digital media.

 

Virtual Discipleship: Online processes for nurturing spiritual growth, accountability, and community among believers.

 

Theological Depth: The substantive engagement with doctrinal truth and biblical exegesis, even within digital formats.

 

Engagement Analytics: Quantitative measures—views, shares, comments—used to assess audience interaction and content effectiveness (Schwadel & Anderson, 2022).

 

List of References

Arango, C., Díaz-Caneja, C. M., McGorry, P. D., Rapoport, J., Sommer, I. E., Vorstman, J. A., … Carpenter, W. (2018). Preventive strategies for mental health. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(7), 591–604.

 

Clair, M. (2018). Stigma. Core concepts in sociology, 318–321.

 

Schwadel, P., & Anderson, A. L. (2022). Religion and Americans’ fear of crime in the 21st century. Review of Religious Research, 64(1), 145–162.