by

The task of poverty eradication requires the joint action of various agencies (IFAD, 2001). In Nigeria, there is a lack of alternative institutions to counter the social processes entrenched in local settings that lead to poverty (Obadan, 2002). The main purpose of this study is to investigate the potentials of Church-based organizations (CBOs) as alternative mechanisms for poverty eradication. I begin by defining poverty from a country perspective and argue that modernistic tendencies have led to a limited understanding. I proffer a communitarian approach for understanding the meaning of poverty and its eradication strategies. I examine the organizational dynamics of a diocese in order to explore the elements within its structure that favor social inclusion in relation to the Roman Catholic Social Justice Agenda. I use Social Learning theory as a theoretical framework to assess how a diocese learns to build on the capacity of individuals and groups as stakeholders that influence poverty eradication at the local level. I build on the role of religious emotions and spiritual values in improving the professional practice of a diocese toward poverty eradication. I also investigate how the means of communication play