Fasting Among New Religious Movements: A New Dimension of Spirituality Beyond Psycho-Spiritual Wellbeing of People

This study examined fasting among select Christian New Religious Movements (CNRMs) in Southeastern Nigeria. Specifically, it evaluates the historical roots of their fasting practices, appraises key factors responsible for their distinctive pattern of fasting, explores the social and economic impacts of their fasting practices on national development, and explains the level of vulnerability experienced by their members in these practices. The theory of religious economy guided it. This study employs a case study research design, utilising a questionnaire as a primary data source and journals, books, and the internet as secondary data sources. The sample size is 400, determined using Cochran's formula for an indefinite or unknown population. The findings show that their fasting practices are similar to those of the mainline Churches, but are taken to the extreme, often motivated by ignorance, materialism, and a quest to make a difference, championing a philosophy of faith without works, which promotes underdevelopment. The study therefore recommends, among other things, realignment of their fasting practice with biblical and Christian traditional teachings on fasting. Keywords: Church, Development, Fasting, New-Religious-Movements, Spirituality