An evaluation of the strategy of the Doxa Deo Group within the AFM of SA to transform city communities

The needs of city communities are so challenging and critical that it has become a matter of urgency for the Church to develop community transformation strategies that will address these needs. The community transformation strategy of the Tshwane-based Doxa Deo Group offers an approach that could be used as a guideline for other churches and assemblies to develop their own relevant strategies. The research study was undertaken to establish how the members of the Doxa Deo Group of assemblies perceive and experience the Group’s community transformation strategy, and whether any recommendations for the possible improvement of the Group’s community transformation strategy could be suggested for consideration by the Group. The researcher has made use of a research design that comprises, as integrated components in Zerfazz’s methodological design, a qualitative research study that is explorative, contextual and descriptive (Visagie, 2002:15; Creswell, 1994:145). Qualitative research information was gathered through conducting audio-taped, open-ended interviews (Denzin & Lincoln, 2000:674). Guba's model of trustworthiness was utilised in conjunction with an independent coder to ensure reliability and validity of the research data and results. A critical evaluation of the Group's community transformation strategy was completed against a background consisting of the results of the qualitative research as well as a literature control study. The analysis of the research data resulted in the formulation of definite themes, categories and sub-categories that are descriptive of the participants’ experiences. Whilst positive experiences unfolded, negative perceptions also emerged, indicating value conflict resulting in a sense of disillusionment and exclusion amongst members. The research results indicated that participants are positive about the leaders and the contents of the vision, values and passions defined by the Group. The research results also clearly indicate that participants have strong, contrasting viewpoints about the Group’s ministry practices. These contrasting views indicate that participants have positive experiences about the preaching and celebration services of the Doxa Deo Group, and are aware of the community involvement activities. However, participants describe ineffective ministry practises and are of the opinion that the needs of people in the community are not met. The participants also stated that pastoral care is lacking and that their needs are not met. The research results further produced various recommendations for consideration by the Group. The research results defined a new context from where the Group can further develop their community transformation strategy. This research study indicated that the Doxa Deo Group is achieving many positive results through their community transformation strategy, and that the strategy adopted by the Group can be applied to all community transformation ministries. The outcome of this research study provides valuable references to Assemblies of the AFM of SA when considering and defining their own community transformation strategies and ministries. It should however, be pointed out that other churches or assemblies should not merely use the Group as a model for community transformation, but should discover and explore God’s unique plan and strategies for their own church or assembly (Hybels & Hybels, 1995:148).Prof. W.J. Hattingh Prof. J.H. Coetze