An Atheist sees that Africa needs a Loving God

I wanted to share an e-mail from my sister regarding the need for God in Africa.  It is written from an Atheist perspective.  

   Matthew Parris of the NYT writes,         "I've become convinced of the enormous contribution that Christian evangelism makes in Africa; sharply distinct from the work of secular NGO's, government project and international aid-efforts.  These alone while good, will not do...In Africa Chistianity changes peoples hearts.  It brings a spiritual transformation. The rebirth is real."

     "I used to avoid this truth by applauding  - as you can - the practical work of mission churches in Africa.  It's a pity, I would say, that salvation is part of the package, but Christians working in Africa, do heal the sick, do teach people to read and write; and only the severest kind of secularist could see a mission hospital or school and say the world would be better without it.   I would allow that if faith was needed to motivate missionaries to help, then fine; but what counted was the help, not the faith."

     "But I noticed, The Christian Nationals were always different. Far from having cowed or confied its converts, their faith appeared to have liberated and relaxed them.  There was a liveliness a curiosity, an engagement with the world- a directness in their dealings with others- that seemed to be missing in traditional African life. They stood tall."