SEMANTIC ANALYSIS OF SELECTED ANGLICAN CHURCH NAMES IN THE DIOCESE ON THE NIGER

Abstract

This study examines the semantic dimensions of Anglican Church names within the Diocese on the Niger, the oldest diocese in the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). It explores how the naming of parishes embodies theological meaning, spiritual identity, and cultural context. Employing semantic field theory, the research categorizes parish names into apostolic, Christological, doctrinal, angelic, eschatological, pastoral, and contextual types. Using qualitative analysis supported by descriptive data, one representative church name from each of the twenty Archdeaconries of the Diocese was examined to reveal patterns of meaning. The findings demonstrate that Anglican Church names in the Diocese function as vehicles of theology, ecclesial memory, and mission, articulating both continuity with apostolic faith and adaptation to Igbo Christian culture.