Penance and Reconciliation: Liturgical Celebration from an African Perspective

Abstract

Penance and Reconciliation: Liturgical celebration from an African perspective" therefore, aims at providing a theological reflection on some African values which can be applied in the Reconciliation ceremony in the Church, especially form the point of view of the usage of signs and symbols. The community aspect, which is a characteristic of all African celebrations, has a special emphasis here, particularly in the ecclesial dimension of the Liturgical celebration of Penance and Reconciliation. It is very important, then, to understand the African concept of sin and forgiveness so that we can speak fairly about reconciliation in Africa. However, special reference is made to the people of my own tribe and this comes from a more experiential knowledge. I hope, therefore, my experience will provide most of the material for this essay, though I will also rely very much on library research. I hope this reflection will provide some light on how to inculturate the liturgical celebration of Reconciliation not only among the Wachagga of Kilimanjaro but also in any African society. The suggestions that I will give in this essay come from my own reflections. It is my hope that they may be beneficial also to others in similar situations. If someone finds them useful and implements them, my endeavour will have been abundantly rewarded. 4