Abstract:
Conflicts have been happening since God’s creation (RSV, 1978). A number of factors
contribute to conflicts and some take a long time before they are solved, yet leave
permanent scars or destructions, others are not solved or worked on, and the society talks
about them like folk stories (Mndcme A, Personal communication, 2006). Among the
factors contributing to these conflicts include; selfishness, money, fame and jealousness
(Ayo M, Personal communication, 2006). Selfishness, which also involves money, to a
great extent is what has lead to the problems many of the Evangelical Lutheran Churches
(ELCT) in Tanzania are lacing. The main purpose of this study was to assess the causes
and effects of conflicts in the ELCT. The objectives of the study were, first to assess
socio-economic factors leading Christians into conflicts, and secondly, to investigate
conilict management mechanisms. Data for the study were collected using questionnaire
survey. Questionnaire survey was done in the Parishes of Meru Diocese. Data were coded,
analyzed and verified. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to
analyze quantitative data. Findings of the study suggest that selfishness; greed, misuse of
church funds and the lack of transparency arc major causes of conflicts. The main impact
has been the creation of a new diocese, destruction of property, and loss of life. The results
of this study provide some suggestions to the church leaders to be cooperative, honest,
transparent and spiritually dynamic. It also provides appropriate use of the word of God in
times of misunderstandings and chaos on church affairs. The study also suggests leaders to
be transparent and to share information with believers all the time, especially during misunderstandings. The study further suggests that when problems occur church leaders should resolve them as soon enough to reduce their effects. Conflicts can be solved if strategies are laid down and involving equally all parties in the conflict.
