A STUDY ON CODE SWITCHING IN SERMONS IN SELECTED CHURCHES IN JOS METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT Code-switching is a conversational strategy used to establish, cross or destroy group boundaries; to create, evoke or change interpersonal relations with their rights and obligations (Gal, 1988, as cited in Wardhaugh, 2002 p. 100). The author also notes that the ability to shift from one language to another is accepted as quite normal. According to Gumperz (1982, p. 408), code-switching is categorized as situational code-switching and metaphorical code-switching. A situational switch involves a change in participants and/or strategies, while metaphorical code-switching involves a change in topical emphasis (409). This code-switching may also happen as a change of topic, discussion or communicative situation. It is used to show identity and appeal to solidarity. According to Wardhaugh (2012, p. 102), code-switching is the use of more than one language, variety, or style by a speaker within an utterance or discourse, or between different interlocutors or situations. Code-switching occurs when a speaker alternates between two or more languages, or language varieties, in the context of a single conversation. It is the practice of switching between languages or dialects in a conversation, often driven by social, situational or psychological factors. It can serve various purposes such as emphasizing a point on cultural identity, or addressing a specific audience. For example: English: “I need to buy some groceries at the market.” Code-switched in Nigerian Pidgin: “I need to buy some foodstuff for market ohh.” (Tanimu and Suleiman, 2023). The present study explores the study of code switching in selected churches in Jos metropolis. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Much of the research on codeswitching (e.g., Gumperz, 1971, 1976; Gumperz & HernándezChávez, 1970; ValdésFallis, 1976, 1978; McClure, 1977) has concentrated on its social and pragmatic functions. However, to the best of this researcher’s knowledge, there is no published study examining how codeswitching operates within church sermons in the Jos metropolis, Nigeria. Pages from Unomah’s work on code switching and code mixing in sermons in selected churches in the Gwagwalada Area of the FCT, Nigeria are cited.. While there is little doubt that functional factors are the strongest constraints on the occurrence of code-switching in churches, it is clear that linguistic factors also play a role. 1.3 Objectives of the Study The main aim of this study is code switching in churches. The main objectives include: i. Identify the languages involved in code-switching in the selected churches. ii. Determine the factors that influence code-switching in selected churches. iii. Categorize the types of code-switching iv. Identify the other factors outside linguistic factors influencing code-switching in the selected churches. 1.4 Scope and Delimitations This study investigates code-switching in churches using Cocin and Ecwa church, with a focus on the linguistic, social, and cognitive factors that influence this phenomenon. It does not extend to other denominations or other context such as schools or offices. In addition it does not extend to other towns in Plateau State or Nigeria. 1.5 Methodology The data for this study includes the primary and secondary data. The primary data for the study are from audio recordings of church services and observations of church members. The churches selected for the study from Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) are used in order to collect data for the study. The recordings were carried out in the various surroundings of the churches. The secondary data were obtained from journals, books, research projects and online materials related to the study of code-switching.