The Role of Women in the Development of the Catholic Church A Study of Makurdi Diocese, Tivland

Abstract

The role of women in Nigeria, especially among the Tiv people, was primarily that of caregivers, whether within the family, the Church, the state, or the nation. This was evident across all aspects of life, with women being underrepresented in decision-making when compared to their male counterparts in areas such as business, politics, culture, and religion. In Mainline Churches, women's participation was often restricted, except in Pentecostal Churches where they enjoyed more extensive involvement. However, some, like the Deeper Life Bible Church, adhered to traditional gender roles, emphasizing women's roles within the kitchen. A notable departure from this pattern occurred in the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, where the Bishop made it mandatory for women to be included in key positions at all levels of the Church. This paper aims to discuss the roles of women in contributing to the development of the Catholic Church in the Makurdi Diocese. The research methodology employed historical and narrative approaches, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. The paper revealed that major roles performed by women in the Diocese were facilitated through the Catholic Women's Organization. These roles included active involvement in church development, women's empowerment through skill acquisition training, the provision of essential items to the Bishop, orphanages, prisons, seminaries, hospital visitations, and care for the sick. Additionally, women participated in various societies, such as the choir, Holy Family, and Biblical Movement, among others. Furthermore, women were elected to all positions within the Laity Council, ranging from parish to the Diocese. In conclusion, it was evident that women made significant contributions to the development of the Makurdi Diocese.