DENOMINATIONALISM AND CHRISTIAN INTRA-FAITH MARRIAGES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explores the impact of denominationalism on Christian intra-faith marriages in Nigeria, examining how denominational affiliations shape marital dynamics, relationships, and stability. Nigeria's diverse Christian landscape, comprising various denominations, presents a unique context for investigating the intersections of faith, marriage, and denominational identity. Findings: The study reveals that denominationalism significantly influences Christian intra-faith marriages in Nigeria and the findings include: denominational differences often lead to conflicts and tensions in marriages, couples from different denominations face challenges integrating their faith practices and traditions, denominational identity can overshadow shared Christian values, leading to marital stress, clergy and church leaders' involvement in marital disputes can exacerbate denominational tensions and socio-cultural factors, such as family and community expectations, compound denominational influences. This study highlights the complex interplay between denominationalism and Christian intra-faith marriages in Nigeria. While denominational affiliations provide a sense of community and identity, they also pose challenges for marital harmony. The findings underscore the need for; interdenominational dialogue and cooperation, clergy training on marital counseling and conflict resolution, couples' education on navigating denominational differences and contextualized marital counseling addressing Nigerian Christian realities. The researcher recommended the following; develop inclusive, ecumenical approaches to Christian marriage enrichment programs, encourage denominational leaders to foster cooperation and understanding, integrate denominational diversity training into pre-marital counseling. This research contributes to the understanding of denominationalism's impact on Christian marriages in Nigeria, informing strategies for promoting marital stability, unity, and faith-based harmony.