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All Journal Diligentia: Journal of Theology and Christian Education Tsaqofah: Jurnal Penelitian Guru Indonesia Al-DYAS : Jurnal Inovasi dan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat
Armstrong, Chanda
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Religion Education Social Sciences Other

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Missionary Practice and Cultural Sensitivity: Exploring African Catholic Missionaries’ Encounter with African Indigenous Religions in Sub-Saharan Africa Armstrong, Chanda
Diligentia: Journal of Theology and Christian Education Vol. 7 No. 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Universitas Pelita Harapan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.19166/dil.v7i3.10239

Abstract

Early Western missionaries to Africa have been criticised for lacking cultural sensitivity to African indigenous religion(s) (AIR). This interpretive phenomenological study examines how the presence of Indigenous African Catholic missionaries in modern sub-Saharan Africa may have shifted the narrative of missionary encounters. It investigates how these missionaries navigate and experience cultural sensitivity within the context of their work. This study is based on the theoretical frameworks of inculturation and dialogue, informed by the Second Vatican Council’s focus on interreligious dialogue and Pope John Paul II’s advocacy for evangelising African cultures. Eight African missionaries from Western, Eastern, Central and Southern sub-Saharan Africa participated in this study, providing narrative data through semi-structured interviews. African missionaries have indicated both cultural sensitivity and insensitivity towards AIR, with some missionaries appreciating shared values and actively engaging in respectful interactions with AIR. However, challenges emerge in this interaction, including navigating cultural differences, syncretism, historical prejudices and theological dilemmas. Despite these challenges, indigenous missionaries are committed to inculturation and dialogue, incorporating certain indigenous practices into worship and developing culturally relevant pastoral approaches. The study recommends developing culturally sensitive evangelistic approaches that not only value and respect indigenous identities and spiritualities but also promote mutual understanding and social unity.
'We Are Not Junkies': Bridging Religious and Cultural Barriers to Substance Abuse Mitigation Armstrong, Chanda
TSAQOFAH Vol 6 No 3 (2026): MEI
Publisher : Lembaga Yasin AlSys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/tsaqofah.v6i3.9420

Abstract

Substance abuse is a significant public health issue that affects individuals and communities by undermining social, economic, financial, spiritual, and psychological well-being. However, religious and cultural beliefs and practices may hinder the effectiveness of substance abuse interventions, particularly when stigma, misconceptions about faith-based healing, and structural barriers limit access to treatment. This study aims to examine the complex relationship among culture, religion, and substance abuse mitigation and to identify culturally sensitive strategies for improving prevention and intervention efforts. A qualitative approach was employed through literature review, document analysis, and case study review, with ecological systems theory used to emphasize the importance of incorporating community perspectives into intervention design. The findings indicate that cultural norms, religious beliefs, and traditional practices can function both as barriers to substance abuse mitigation and as potential resources for developing contextually relevant prevention and treatment strategies. Barriers to treatment are closely linked to societal stigma, misconceptions surrounding faith-based healing, and broader structural challenges within affected communities. The study concludes that substance abuse mitigation requires tailored intervention strategies that bridge cultural and religious divides while aligning with the values of impacted populations. This study contributes to public health and community intervention literature by highlighting the need for culturally responsive approaches that address stigma, strengthen community engagement, and improve the effectiveness of substance abuse prevention and treatment efforts.
Bridging the Gap between Cultural and Religious Practices and Cholera Epidemic Mitigation in Lusaka-Zambia Armstrong, Chanda; Alfred, Kapepe
Al-DYAS Vol 5 No 2 (2026): JUNI
Publisher : Lembaga Yasin AlSys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/aldyas.v5i2.9411

Abstract

The cholera epidemic has remained a recurring public health challenge globally, across Africa, and in Zambia. This study aims to identify the gap between cultural and religious beliefs and practices and public health initiatives in cholera control, as well as to propose strategies for bridging this mitigation gap in response to the 2023–2025 cholera epidemic in Zambia. A qualitative case study design was employed, focusing on Lusaka District as the epicenter of the epidemic. The study involved 15 participants, consisting of five health workers, five religious leaders, and five community members from selected cholera-affected areas in Lusaka. Data were analyzed using the cultural theory of risk and religious coping theory. The findings indicate that cultural beliefs and practices, including communal eating, drinking, and gatherings as cultural observances, contributed to the spread of cholera. Religious beliefs and practices, such as reliance on healing through prayer over recommended medical treatment, the use of traditional medicine, and funeral rites involving the washing of corpses, also hindered efforts to combat the cholera epidemic in Lusaka District. The study concludes that addressing cholera requires stronger alignment between public health interventions and the cultural and religious contexts of affected communities. It recommends that religious organizations, faith communities, and health agencies work collaboratively to promote positive attitudes and behaviors that support epidemic mitigation. The study contributes by developing a Culture-Health Action-Based Framework to guide more culturally responsive and religion-sensitive cholera mitigation efforts.
Co-Authors Alfred, Kapepe