African ethnic disputes could hinder church unity, cardinal says

Zeina Mvemba

4:48 PM

10/11/09

Africa, a continent rich with history of ethnic battles and disputes faces another ethnic setback, this time involving the church setting. Religious differences between Islam and Christianity of different nations in Africa are causing setbacks among Catholic leaders in Africa. Cardinals in Africa say the main concern in the disputes between the two religions is that the churches unity will not remain. The ethnic differences in religion come from different views in different nations such as Uganda, Rwanda, Nigeria and Kenya, all regions that have lead to the deaths and migration of millions. Despite the concerns in ethnic divide, religious officials say ethnic differences are a good thing in the country, they are natural occurrences, and no one is to blame. A Cardinal in Africa says the relations between the two religions have always been cordial, and hopefully it will remain that way.

Although Africa has had a strong past of ethnic disputes and conflict due to religion, I believe that the religious divide discussed in this article is not dangerous. Like the article says, it is good to have some ethnic and religious differences as long as they are not leading to violence. I understand the church’s concern that some people may convert to a different religion, or leave the church divided, but I do not think they should be too worried, also it has been my opinion that as long as a person is practicing religion, it should not matter which religion it may be.

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