The Development of African Theology: Fifty years of Inspiration from Orbis Books (1970-2020

Abstract

There are at least three exercises theology must perform to qualify as such. It must (a) investigate the state of the world and the role humanity in it (the historical, anthropological, sociological and ecological concern); (b) explore the divine presence in these realities and through them appreciate the interaction of God with humanity (the spiritual and religious component); and (c) articulate or tell “stories,” in oral and/or written form, about these discoveries (the theological 
dimension proper – thus Theo-logos, or human word or speech about God). The 
three aspects are part of one movement, an intimately connected continuum. 
They are also, as such, universal. Though living in diverse parts of the world 
with different practical experiences, humanity is ultimately one, sharing a single 
cosmos. Humanity’s theological experience can (and should) therefore be able to 
be shared. This article examines how conversation about God in Africa (or, more 
precisely, African Theology) has been inspired in its growth by similar stories or 
articulations published by Orbis Books of the Mary knoll Fathers and Brothers in 
New York, USA, over the last half-century (1970-2020).