The potential of multicultural congregations in supporting social reconciliation

Race, ethnicity and national identity are important discussions that are unfinished ecclesial business for churches in South Africa. Churches remain mono-cultural to a large extent; a significant challenge is the fact that churches still largely reflect the social divisions of a society. Although no...

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Autore principale: Naidoo, Marilyn ca. 20./21. Jh. (Autore)
Tipo di documento: Elettronico Articolo
Lingua:Inglese
Verificare la disponibilità: HBZ Gateway
Interlibrary Loan:Interlibrary Loan for the Fachinformationsdienste (Specialized Information Services in Germany)
Pubblicazione: 2017
In: HTS teologiese studies
Anno: 2017, Volume: 73, Fascicolo: 4
Altre parole chiave:B Nation-building
B Multicultural Congregations
B Inclusive Identity
B Racial Integration
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Riepilogo:Race, ethnicity and national identity are important discussions that are unfinished ecclesial business for churches in South Africa. Churches remain mono-cultural to a large extent; a significant challenge is the fact that churches still largely reflect the social divisions of a society. Although not common in South Africa, there are, at the same time, congregations that are successful at reaching across racial and cultural divides to attract new members and build social capital. This article discusses the reconciliation potential of multicultural churches in that they are able to accommodate multiple racial groups, in a society where religious life remains overwhelmingly segregated. Racial integration is a sensitive issue that has divisive potential and churches and religions in general tend to avoid the issue. Religious communities played a critical role in the transition to democracy; what is needed now is for churches to deepen this reconciliation potential.
ISSN:2072-8050
Comprende:Enthalten in: HTS teologiese studies
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.4102/hts.v73i4.4622