Religious Pluralism and the Limits of Ecumenism in Mbanza Kongo, Angola

In Mbanza Kongo, Angola, religious pluralism faces significant resistance due to historical associations between Christianity and oppressive power. Despite ecumenical efforts and legal mandates for religious groups to join an 'Ecumenical Platform,' local Bakongo people, particularly those returning from exile in the Democratic Republic of Congo, show strong opposition to Christian ecumenism. This resistance stems from a deep-seated resentment tied to colonial history, including the martyrdom of Kimpa Vita in 1706. Instead, Kongo religious institutions—some banned by Angolan laws—are being revitalized and spread among communities, offering an alternative to Christianity's perceived ties to suffering and oppression. The study highlights the challenges of grassroots ecumenism in this context, suggesting that such efforts may struggle to gain traction without addressing these historical grievances.

Sarró, R. (2018). Religious Pluralism and the Limits of Ecumenism in Mbanza Kongo, Angola. Journal of Southern African Studies, 44(2), 239–251. https://doi.org/10.1080/03057070.2018.1416777