Pentecostal Worship and Emotional Expression: A Study of Worshippers in Kogi State

This study examines the relationship between Pentecostal worship practices and emotional expression among church members in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. Pentecostal worship, characterised by lively music, tongues-speaking, and spontaneous congregational participation, has been both celebrated for its emotional vitality and critiqued for its perceived superficiality. Using a descriptive survey design, data are collected from 250 respondents across twelve Pentecostal and charismatic churches in Lokoja, Okene, and Idah. Structured questionnaires and observational field notes are employed to assess patterns of emotional expression, perceived spiritual significance of worship, and levels of post-worship spiritual satisfaction. Findings indicate that emotional expression during worship is widely affirmed as a valid and valued spiritual experience, with respondents linking intense emotional engagement to feelings of divine presence, personal healing, and renewed commitment. However, the study also identifies concerns about the manipulation of emotions through peer pressure, theatrical worship leadership, and the equation of emotional intensity with spiritual maturity. Respondents with longer church membership and theological education tend to hold more reflective and less emotionally reactive worship orientations. The study recommends the integration of theological education on worship into Pentecostal discipleship programmes and encourages worship leaders to cultivate emotionally authentic rather than emotionally manipulative worship environments. Keywords: Pentecostal worship, emotional expression, Kogi State, charismatic church, worship theology