Date

7-22-2025

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership (EdD)

Chair

Melody Smith

Keywords

Christian Education, Christian Leadership

Disciplines

Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore how Christian schools in Orange County, California, contribute to the spiritual growth of their students as it pertains to becoming future Christian leaders. Spiritual growth will be defined as the process of becoming more and more like Jesus Christ. Though studies exist addressing the spiritual formation of children, this research focused specifically on the impact of Christian schools in Orange County, California, as perceived by their parents. The meaning of “future Christian leaders” as used in the title of this research not only refers to future pastors or Christians who hold a leadership position in the church, an organization, or the community but also includes men and women whose exemplary Christian lives and character make them a role model for others to emulate. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for twelve participants to collect data for the study. The data was transcribed, coded, and analyzed for emergent themes to determine how these Christian schools make an impact on students’ future Christian leadership. Based on the data from Christian schools in Orange County, California, students attending these private Christian schools are more likely to develop Christian virtues, Biblical knowledge, and communication skills necessary to become Christian leaders. They are also more likely to build Godly relationships with their peers.

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