THE PRACTICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH (A STUDY OF SOME SELECTED CATHOLIC CHURCHES IN ENUGU URBAN)
ABSTRACT
This study explores and x-rays the application of Public Relations concepts, principles and practice in the churches especially in the selected catholic churches. The report understudies and identifies the basic ingredients of Public Relations practice and discusses how these components can be effectively utilized for better church management and the attendant positive returns. The relevant information for this study came from open literature, especially books and journals. Questionnaires were also administered to some enlightened individuals in the churches whose opinions are representative enough to form an objective assessment. The pilot survey was used to select some churches which were considered fairly representative of the catholic churches in Enugu Urban Sample proportion statistic was used in testing and analyzing the results of the finding. Finally, it was revealed that inspired of the lip service paid to Public Relations in the churches the practice still remains the antidote and pillar for effective church administration, growth and continued survival. For clear presentation and flow of work, the study was divided into five chapters. Chapter one introduces the work giving insight into what role effective Public Relations practice is capable of rendering in the churches. The chapter also presents the statement of problems, the objectives of the study, the research questions, hypotheses formulation, scope and area of study, limitations and significance of the study. Chapter two reviews the related literature for the study by way of critically examining, analyzing and adopting some ideas, comments, views and feelings of authorities in the field towards revalidating the stand of this study. Chapter three discusses the research methodology applied in the collection of data for the study. Chapter four presents the analysis of data and discusses the results of the findings of the study using relevant research tools and instruments. This helps in authenticating the major thrust of this research exercise. Chapter five drawn the curtain on the study by summarizing the outcome, proffering some pertinent recommendations while drawing up conclusion. The study establishes that with proper application of Public Relations concepts, principles and practices in the churches the face of the earth will be renewed for better. However, to ensure that the aforestated goal is achieved, those saddled with the responsibility of Public Relations practice in the churches must arise and push more in the area of awareness creation of the practice. They must improve on their general conduct, policy formulation, and programme implementation. They also need to strengthen their information/publicity system and mechanism. Formal training for those concerned on the rudiments of the practice will also go a long way in enhancing the realization of the set goal. The belief is strong that once the right things are done at the right time in the right manner, the churches will have no option other than to embrace the practice of modern Public Relations.