Decolonizing Religions in Africa: The Profound Role of African Spirituality of Ubuntu

Abstract: In the intricate realm of African spirituality, a profound and unique concept known as Ubuntu emerges as a powerful force at the crossroads of decolonizing religions in Africa. In this narrative, we explore the rich tapestry of African spirituality, where the cosmic and human worlds converge to form a sacred channel connecting humanity with the divine. This paper endeavors to unravel the harmonious essence of African cultural and spiritual rituals, symbols, stories, and dances as they intertwine with the fabric of everyday life. It argues that the spirituality of Ubuntu, with its sacred cycle of birth, death, and rebirth intertwined with African ancestors' visible and invisible forces, should become an integral part of popular religiosity.

Presenter bio: Fr. Fikiri Deogratias SJ is a Jesuit priest from the Democratic Republic of Congo. He is a Ph.D. Student at Marquette University in the Graduate School with a concentration in leadership and Policy. Before starting his doctoral program, he obtained a master’s degree in social ethics and environmental justice and a Licentiate in Sacred theology at the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara/ Berkeley. He has studied and worked in many African countries, including Congo, Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, Uganda, Rwanda, and the United States. English is his latest and sixth language to learn. He has been interested in social justice issues and African spirituality more on its side of decoloniality. He has published many articles about religion, spirituality, and social justice. Currently, he is working on a book about the African spirituality of Ubuntu and its decolonial component applied to climate and environmental degradation.

Affiliation: Marquette University Santa Clara University School of Theology