We want to broaden access to theology and critical thinking about faith by creating spaces where the local community can listen to excellent speakers and make their minds up for themselves. Community Theology Thursdays will explore challenging and controversial issues from our shared histories, or our lived experiences that impact our shared life together, today.
This year, we are beginning with a powerful series entitled “Jesus and Recommendation 32”, which addresses how Christian theology has historically been misused to dehumanise African peoples and demonise their traditional beliefs and practices.
What is Recommendation 32?
The Church Commissioners of the Church of England published a report on their historic links with Transatlantic Chattel Slavery following an investigation initiated in 2019. Their response included the proposal to set aside £100 million - 1% of their fund - to invest in a new in-perpetuity investment fund dedicated to justice, healing, and repair. They commissioned an Independent Oversight Group to provide recommendations on how they should next act.
One particular recommendation of the Independent Oversight Group has attracted considerable attention and concern - Recommendation 32:
Recommendation 32 and The Gospel ‘Good News’ of Jesus Christ
26TH SEPTember, at st nicholas church
Explore how the ‘Good News of Jesus Christ was misappropriated to undermine African identity and spirituality. How might Recommendation 32 help us revisit our approach to mission, evangelism and the Gospel?
Recommendation 32 and African Traditional Religions
31st october, at st nicholas church
Discover the breadth of African belief systems. This session unpacks the complexities of Recommendation 32 and the centrality of a holistic understanding of African spirituality.
Recommendation 32 and the Early Church in Africa
28th november, at st nicholas church
What role did Africa play in the birth of Christianity? Dive into the overlooked history of the Early Church in Africa and how this narrative has been obscured.