The Role of Religion and Religious Leaders in Marital Conflict Resolution: A Perspective of Congolese Migrants’ Families Living in Durban, South Africa

Abstract

The central aim of this study is to explore and examine the role of religion and religious leaders in marital conflict resolution through perspective of Congolese migrants’ families living in Durban, South Africa. In order to achieve the objectives qualitative study, employing an interpretive approach was used in data collection. The finding from this study revealed that religion and religious leaders play a very critical role in marital conflict resolution among Congolese migrant families living in Durban. While marital conflict resolution is settled through extended family structures headed by the head of the family in the country of origin, church leadership has replaced this in the host country. It was apparent that when people are in a foreign country they try to find people whom they can rely on, trust, and seek advice during difficult times such as in times of economic difficulties and family conflicts. The findings shown that church leaders and church counselors were seen as most trusted persons who can give lasting solution to marital conflict. Not only are they able to provide advice, but according to these participants, they also offer counseling and follow-up on progress of marital and relationship. The study has also shown that mediation and communication was identified as the major approaches used by these church leaders and church counselors to resolve marital conflict.