Christianity and Traditional Worship: Tensions and Adaptations in Cross River State

The encounter between Christianity and traditional Efik and Ejagham religious practices in Cross River State, South South Nigeria, has produced ongoing theological tensions and creative cultural adaptations that reflect broader questions of inculturation and syncretism in African Christianity. This study examines how Christians in Cross River State navigate the continuing presence of traditional worship practices including ancestral veneration, masquerade festivals, and divination within Christian communities. A qualitative descriptive design was adopted, with semi-structured interviews conducted with 25 church members (including former traditional worshippers), ten pastors, and five traditional custodians in Calabar, Ogoja, and Ikom. Participant observation at six church events with cultural elements was conducted. Findings indicate a spectrum of responses ranging from complete rejection of traditional practices to full integration within Christian worship forms. Catholic and Anglican churches show greater accommodation of culturally adapted practices, while Pentecostal churches maintain stricter boundaries. Community identity pressure is the primary driver of continued traditional participation among professing Christians. The study concludes that the encounter between Christianity and Cross River State traditional religion requires contextualised theological discernment rather than blanket prohibition or uncritical acceptance. It recommends that seminary training in the South South zone include an advanced inculturation theology module that equips ministers for culturally sensitive pastoral responses in ethnically diverse congregations.

Keywords: Christianity, traditional worship, inculturation, Cross River State, South South Nigeria