Original Research

Discovering and exploring ubuntu-language in the dialogue between the Dutch Reformed Church and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa

Lieze Meiring
Verbum et Ecclesia | Vol 36, No 2 | a1439 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/ve.v36i2.1439 | © 2015 Lieze Meiring | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 23 February 2015 | Published: 17 July 2015

About the author(s)

Lieze Meiring, Department of Practical Theology, University of Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Discussions with members of the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URCSA) in Ohrigstad illustrate the possibilities of ubuntu-language in overcoming racism and prejudice. After proposing a number of meanings and values related to ubuntu, this research explores the role of ubuntu-language – and at times the lack thereof – in the concrete relationship between these two faith communities as an expression of recent South African history. Ubuntu-language seems to offer unique outcomes in this relationship in strengthening identity, unleashing vitality, celebrating diversity, awakening solidarity, revealing humanity, bolstering individualism and enhancing Christianity.


Keywords

Ubuntu; Dutch Reformed Church; URCSA; Dialogue; Language

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