From the Fringes to the Centre: Pentecostalization of the Mainline Churches in Ghana

Abstract

AbstractIn this article, the author deals with the unprecedented integration of charismatic features in the ethos of the mainline churches of Ghana which respond to typical African questions thus rejuvenating those churches. He describes and analyses the way the charismatic phenomenon which began in the margins has become a central element of all the mainline historic churches in Ghana. While in the past the African Independent/Instituted churches and later Pentecostal and Neo–Pentecostal churches were noted for charismatic enthusiasm, currently the phenomenon has found its way into the mainline churches thus blurring the sharp distinction between mainline churches and Pentecostals. As a result, there is a major paradigmatic shift in the spirituality, theology, practices and programs of mainline churches in Ghana. Thus the phenomenon can no longer be regarded as peripheral in the life of the older Ghanaian churches.