Rev. Numfor Godwin Defends Groundbreaking Research on Social Media’s Impact on PCC Pastoral Commitment

Rev Numfor Godwin, PCC Moderator's Private Secretary Immortalize the Moment.

The evolving relationship between digital technology and pastoral ministry took centre stage on Tuesday as Rev. Numfor Godwin successfully defended his Master of Science dissertation at the Cameroon Christian University Institute (CCUI) in Limbe. His research, conducted under the Department of Clinical Counselling, examined how social media is reshaping the commitment and daily responsibilities of pastors within the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC).

The defence, held on the PRESNUS Campus, drew academics, clergy, and students eager to engage with a study that touches on one of the most pressing challenges facing modern ministry. Supervised by Dr. Kate Tande with co-supervision from Dr. Maxmillian Younyi Tigma, the work forms part of Rev. Numfor’s pursuit of a specialized understanding of pastoral care in today’s digital age.

Rev. Numfor who currently serves as the Secretary to the Moderator of the PCC, PCC Webmaster, and Parish Pastor of PC Bomaka in Buea, centred his research on how social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram influence pastoral commitment.

Rev Numfor Godwin, Presenting the Research Paper.

His mixed-method study sampled 55 pastors and 90 Christians across the PCC, using questionnaires and focus group discussions to capture both statistical and lived experiences. The findings reveal a profound transformation, while social media enhances pastoral reach and real-time engagement with congregants, it also introduces distractions that risk weakening the depth of traditional ministry.

According to the study’s results, Instagram and TikTok showed the strongest influence on pastoral commitment, with explanatory powers of 95.3% and 89.8% respectively. Facebook and WhatsApp also demonstrated significant impacts, though to lesser degrees. Statistical analyses using SPSS and Chi-Square testing confirmed that increased social media use correlates with shifts both positive and negative in pastoral behaviour, focus, and availability.

Speaking moments after his defence, Rev. Numfor reflected on the dual-edged nature of digital engagement within the church. “Traditionally, the role of the pastor had been dominated by face-to-face ministry, visitation, and sermon preparation,” he said. “With the advent of social media, a lot is changing in the landscape of ministry. Social media enhances outreach, but it can also distract. Many pastors now spend more time online than interacting directly with Christians.”

         Abstract of the Research Work.

He emphasized the need for balance, advocating for intentionality rather than avoidance. “We are looking at how to harness this tool of digital technology into ministry and how to set boundaries so pastors can still find time for traditional ministry even in the midst of these digital platforms.”

Rev. Numfor’s recommendations include digital literacy training for pastors, clear communication guidelines for congregations, and the development of a PCC-wide digital policy to help clergy manage online engagement responsibly. He stressed the importance of establishing “quiet hours” for prayer, rest, and pastoral duties without digital interruption.

     Cross Section of Invited Personalities.

His dissertation, titled “The Impact of Social Media on the Commitment of the Pastors of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon,” is expected to spark broader conversations within PCC leadership as the church navigates ministry in an era where digital tools are indispensable.

As technology continues to redefine community and communication, Rev. Numfor’s work offers a timely roadmap, both cautionary and hopeful, for clergy seeking to honour traditional pastoral commitments while embracing the possibilities of modern digital ministry.