ECUMENISM IN INDIGENOUS GOSPEL MUSIC: ITS IMPACT IN ISOKO AND URHOBO LANDS

Abstract: This study explores the role of indigenous gospel music as a catalyst for ecumenism in the Isoko and Urhobo regions of Delta State, Nigeria. The paper examines how traditional musical expressions have been adapted within Christian worship to foster unity among denominations. The study highlights how indigenous gospel music bridges faith traditions while preserving cultural identity by drawing on the theoretical frameworks of Diffusionism and Functionalist Theory in Christian Sacred Musicology. The research also discusses contemporary challenges, such as denominational rivalries and commercialisation, while proposing strategies for sustaining the ecumenical potential of indigenous gospel music. Ultimately, the findings suggest that indigenous gospel music continues to be vital in strengthening interdenominational bonds and promoting communal harmony. Title: ECUMENISM IN INDIGENOUS GOSPEL MUSIC: ITS IMPACT IN ISOKO AND URHOBO LANDS Author: ADJAGBARA, Francis Eseoghene International Journal of Recent Research in Social Sciences and Humanities (IJRRSSH) ISSN 2349-7831 Vol. 12, Issue 1, January 2025 - March 2025 Page No: 11-22 Paper Publications Website: www.paperpublications.org Published Date: 22-February-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14909095 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.paperpublications.org/upload/book/ECUMENISM%20IN%20INDIGENOUS%20GOSPEL%20MUSIC-22022025-2.pdf