| dc.description.abstract | The debate on the contribution of diaconal practices among churches in the empowerment discourse remains unresolved in the conventional literature. This study seeks to address the question “What characterizes the empowerment of young female head porters by the Suhudoo Baptist Church in Aboabo, Kumasi, Ghana?”. Using the case of the aforementioned church, the study sought to explore whether or not diaconal practices contribute to the empowerment of the vulnerable in society. And if it does, the form it takes and how the empowerment is achieved. Empowerment and gender perspectives, the see-reflect-act as a diaconal model renewed diaconal action, and inclusiveness as diaconal perspectives was used to explore how the church brings about liberation to the poor and marginalized, protect and speak against injustices in the society, and defend the voice of the voiceless and the disempowered. The study used interview guides and observational skills, narratives from eight head porters were gathered for the study. An intersectionality approach was adopted for the analysis and discussion of the findings. The findings of the study point to the fact that not much has been done by the government of Ghana in protecting or empowering the head porters. The study revealed that diaconal practices of the church have lessened the financial burden of the head porters. Besides, the church through its interaction among members created a friendly environment that enables the head porters to socialize with other members of the church. This creates inclusive, just, equal, and mutual societies. Also, the diaconal practices have contributed to the empowerment of the head porters. | en_US |
