The Impact of Leadership Dynamics on the Growth and Development of Home Cells: A Study of Perez Chapel International

Abstract

Small groups are essential focal points for both qualitative and quantitative church growth in many mega Pentecostal and Charismatic churches. Previous studies have examined the use of small groups for administration, growth, and sustainability, but have often focused on programmes, activities, or leader selection rather than on the dynamics of leader–member relationships within these groups. This paper explores the impact of leadership dynamics on the growth and development of home cell groups at Perez Chapel International’s Perez Dome in Accra, Ghana. Drawing on Transformational Leadership, Leader–Member Exchange (LMX) theory, Social Identity Theory, and Team Convergence of Mental Models, the study employs a convergent mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected from 124 home cell participants and 7 regional leaders using a newly developed Home Cell Growth Scale and the LMX-7, complemented by attendance records from 126 home cell groups over a one-year period. Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and thematically analysed. Reliability and factor analysis confirmed that the four growth dimensions (numerical, spiritual, welfare, and social) form a coherent and largely unidimensional construct. Results show that LMX is strongly associated with spiritual, social, and welfare growth, and moderately but significantly correlated with net numerical growth. Welfare and social growth emerged as the strongest predictors of actual numerical increase. Qualitative themes highlighted trust, open communication, personal care, community engagement, and the challenge of leadership burnout. The study concludes that highquality leader–member relationships are crucial for spiritual and relational health in home cells and that welfare and social care are key pathways to numerical growth. It recommends intentional support systems, shared leadership structures, and improved data practices to sustain home cell growth while guarding against leadership burnout.