Nnadiebube Journal of Religion, Culture and Society

Over the past forty years, Nigeria has witnessed a rapid rise in Pentecostalism, characterised by vibrant worship practices, prosperity theology, and an emphasis on spiritual gifts, which have increasingly merged with Roman Catholic liturgy, thereby challenging the traditional continuity of ritual norms and theological priorities in Catholic worship. While a wealth of research exists on the growth of Pentecostalism within African Christianity, the specific impacts on Catholic liturgical practices remain largely overlooked, especially regarding the incorporation of charismatic elements within the Eucharistic celebration in Nigeria. This article employs a qualitative approach, integrating primary liturgical texts, pastoral directives, and secondary literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. The main argument posits that the charismatic worship styles of Pentecostalism– such as clapping, impromptu prayers, prophetic messages, and personal testimonies– have been selectively integrated into Catholic liturgy, resulting in a negotiated hybrid form that enhances congregational involvement but raises questions about doctrinal and ritual consistency. The findings reveal significant transformations, including the addition of praise-and-worship music before and during Mass, the appointment of lay charismatic prayer groups to lead intercessions, and the use of indigenous percussion instruments in rituals, which are linked to increased lay participation but also create liturgical inconsistencies. By thoroughly cataloguing these liturgical changes, the research enriches liturgical theology, contributes to understanding the processes of inculturation and interdenominational interactions, and provides insights into the Catholic Charismatic Renewal movement in Nigeria. It is recommended that Catholic ecclesiastical authorities establish clear guidelines for integ

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