Factors Influencing Christians’ Change of Church Affiliation: A Case Study of Christians at Redeemed Gospel Churches in Embakasi, Nairobi

Abstract

The phenomenon of church mobility among church congregants has become increasingly common within urban Pentecostal churches. Church mobility has increased significantly across African urban Pentecostal contexts, yet limited empirical work explores its underlying drivers within single-denomination settings. This study investigated the personal, spiritual, and socio-economic factors that inform church affiliation among the Redeemed Gospel Churches (RGCs) in the Embakasi region of Nairobi. A qualitative research methodology was employed using a case study design. Data were collected through questionnaires and in-depth interviews. The target population included the clergy, church leadership (chairlady and chairman), and church members who had changed their church affiliation within 2 years before the study. The sample comprised 48 participants drawn from the 6 Redeemed Gospel Churches branches selected, including 30 congregants, 12 council leaders, and 6 pastors, selected through purposive sampling to provide rich and relevant insights. The Push–Pull Theory of Religious Mobility provided the analytical framework for interpreting patterns of movement. Findings reveal that members change church affiliation due to leadership conflicts, governance weaknesses, spiritual dissatisfaction, doctrinal ambiguity, poor pastoral care, socio-economic pressures, and geographical convenience. Young adults were the most mobile demographic, often seeking authenticity, relational connection, and deeper discipleship experiences. The study concludes that strengthening transparent leadership, enhancing doctrinal clarity, and establishing structured spiritual formation programs are essential for reducing unnecessary church mobility. These findings contribute to pastoral theology, ecclesiology, and organizational studies by illuminating membership dynamics in Nairobi’s urban Pentecostal landscape.