An Econo-Theological Analysis of the Role and Contribution of the Church in the Zimbabwean Economy

The role of the church in economics remains conflictive. While the ecclesiastical body is convinced that it has the right to participate in economics, this position is viewed with disdain by politicians who think that the church should remain as a religious institution waiting to bandage the wounds...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Martin Mujinga
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Africajournals 2025-08-01
Series:Pharos Journal of Theology
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Online Access:https://www.pharosjot.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_5_106_4__regular_issue_august.pdf
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Summary:The role of the church in economics remains conflictive. While the ecclesiastical body is convinced that it has the right to participate in economics, this position is viewed with disdain by politicians who think that the church should remain as a religious institution waiting to bandage the wounds of those injured and maimed by politicians, to support those sidelined to the peripheries of the economy, provide for families and individuals who are displaced and forgotten in the economic cycles and encourage those suffering from hopelessness and despair. Using Zimbabwe as a case study, this paper sought to answer questions such as, Is the church’s involvement in economics a right or a privilege? How is the church contributing to the national economy? What are the underpinnings that drive the authority of the church to participate in economics? The paper begins by outlining the methodology and econo-theological conceptual framework. A brief analysis of the Zimbabwean economy followed this discussion. The paper argued that the church's participation in economics is effectively a right and not a privilege. These conclusions were drawn from the foundations of the church as a historical, sociological, religious, and economic entity, driving its mandate from Jesus Christ. The paper makes a novel contribution to academia by positioning the church as a partner in economics, rather than as a mere spectator that participates at the mercy of political powers.
ISSN:2414-3324