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."
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