Religious Proselytization in Pokhara: A Study of Shalom Assemblies of God Church Fulbari, Pokhara, Nepal

Abstract

This study entitled " Religious Proselytization in Pokhara: A study of Shalom Assemblies of God Church Fulbari, Pokhara, Nepal." focuses on the motivating factors for people converting to Christianity. The general objective of this study is to find out the trend of religious proselytization in Pokhara. The specific objectives of the study are as to find out the motivating factors of conversion to Christianity and to analyze the trend and the converts’ perception on religious proselytization. Qualitative research design was used in this study and data were analyzed and interpreted on the basis of it.There are seventy household in Assemblies of God Church, Pokhara. Among of this household there are fifty-five male head and fifteen female. For the reliable and good result of the study, census method was taken as the sampling. Each of the family head was selected and asked questions. Both primary and secondary sources were used to collect data. Structured and semi structured questions were used to collect primary data focusing on subjective interpretation, symbolism and narration. Males are majority in this study also the males are more interested in conversion to Christianity. Majority of the respondents are married. Brahmin, Chhetri, ethnic community like Gurung, Magar, Tharu, Newar and Dalits like Sarki, Kami and Damai etc. were the respondents. Occupational status of the respondents play important role in conversion. Most of the time low level workers involve in the conversion. Most of the respondents earn low in average. They got information on Christianity from various sources like neighbors, friends, media etc. Mainly old family members did not adopt Christianity. Respondents realize the certain changes in their life after adopting Christianity. It is found some converted realizing changes for salvation in their life, celebrating ritual and cultural festivities, some realizing improve in health and income system, feel happy, joy, peace and satisfaction in their life. Christianity entered Nepal 300 years ago. Then Christian Community started to use various means, ideas, ways and supports as motivating factors. Christianization is one of the debatable issues in Nepali society. This study analyzed various aspects of the Christianization. On the basis of finding it can be drawn the conclusion that most of the respondents feel happy after converting into Christianity. The blame and accusation by other to Christians are found illogical because most of the respondents are converted for faith and by their will and not only for money. In the absence of a strong state sponsored health and social security system and given the prevalence of caste-discrimination and pseudo-scientific non-medics (superstition), it should not be very surprising that many more people will adopt Christianity in future. It is recommended that Christian community should be established in relation with other community. It should stop forceful conversion but all have right and freedom to do practice according to their faith and belief. Government should address and recognize churches as one of the important religious organizations.