The Relationship Between Leadership Styles of Small Christian Community (SCC) Leaders and the Christian Spirituality of Members in the Outer-ring Deanery in the Archdiocese of Nairobi, Kenya

This study aimed to examine the relationship between leadership styles of Small Christian Community (SCC) leaders and the Christian spirituality of members in the Outer-ring Deanery, Archdiocese of Nairobi, Kenya. Leaders of SCCs are envisioned to demonstrate and promote ethical leadership values. However, it was observed that practices often reflect secular approaches, such as emphasizing authority, personal interest, or a lack of accountability, which contradict the Christian goals of service and spiritual growth. The research was guided by the Servant Leadership and Spiritual Well-being theories, which provide a framework for understanding how leadership behavior either enhances or hinders the spiritual growth of members. The study employed a quantitative methodology and a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from sample seize of 408 SCC members in the Outer-ring Deanery, Archdiocese of Nairobi, using structured questionnaire on the Leadership Style and Spirituality Scale. 356 participants were used for data analysis and the study utilized descriptive and inferential statistics for the data analysis, specifically focusing on Pearson’s correlational analysis and multiple linear regression to measure the relationship between the variables. The findings showed that, democratic leadership a moderate positive and statistically significant relationship with Christian spirituality (r = .319**, p < .001). The autocratic leadership style showed a weak positive and statistically insignificant correlation with Christian spirituality (r = .040, p = .448). The laissez-faire leadership style emerged as a significant moderate negative predictor of Christian spirituality (β = -.128, p < .017). The study concluded that leadership style plays a vital role in shaping and promoting Christian spirituality within SCCs. The relationship between leadership and Christian spirituality is mutually reinforcing when rooted in service, humility, and shared responsibility. The study recommended that SCC leaders strengthen democratic and participatory leadership practices while actively minimizing tendencies toward autocratic and laissez-faire styles. Key words : Leadership Styles, Small Christian Community and Christian Spirituality, Leadership