Abstract:
In the current theological literature about parish-visiting, a gap is identified
with regard to the importance of visiting newcomers in a congregation.
With this in mind an empirical study was undertaken to evaluate
the matter in actual practice. The starting point (hypothesis) of this
study is: Visits to newcomers is a very important facet of any parish minister's
work. Such visits can help to establish a pastoral relationship
between minister and member which is essential for the minister's pastoral
and other work in the congregation. By means of an empirical study
the above-mentioned hypothesis was tested and a preliminary theory with
regard to the importance of visitation to newcomers was formulated. After
this theory has been tested against the directives of Scripture, a
proposal is made for a new theory to underpin the practice within the
Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika
