The potential of multicultural congregations in supporting social reconciliation
Naidoo, Marilyn
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.
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