CULTURE VERSUS GOSPEL IN AFRICA

Culture versus Gospel in Africa: Sampling Centennial History of Mutira Mission, Central Kenya (1912-2012), demonstrates how the European Missionaries transformed the lifestyles of the Kikuyu, Kamba and Mbeere ethnic groups living in the then Mutira pastorate. By then, the pastorate covered Kirinyaga and Riakanau in Mbeere of Embu County. The book goes on to show how the pioneer missionaries such as Laight, Butcher and Hillard encountered African traditional practices such as circumcision, dances, killing of twin children, modes of disposing the dead, taboos and abominations, herbal medicine, marriage and betrothal, clannism, African worship and general mode of life. They dismissed all African cultures as bad. In view of this, the author shows how Gospel and Culture got into unending conflict to date. In other words, where is the clear demarcating line between Gospel and Culture? Can we erase all elements of culture in African Christianity? In demonstrating the impact of Christian missions (1912-2012), the book outlines the histories of some leading figures whose success is beholden to the missionary labors. It is a must read for all keen students of African histories and cultures!