Abstract

MUNYENYEMBE, Rhodian  and  HOFMEYR, Johannes Wynand. When ecclesiastical unity is pursued but not realised: synodical independency and denominational pluralism within the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP). Studia Hist. Ecc. [online]. 2017, vol.43, n.1, pp.1-27. ISSN 2412-4265.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2412-4265/2016/1243.

The aim of this article is to appreciate the fact that though the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) is taken to be one denomination, the independence of the synods has made it to appear as if there are actually five denominations. By tracing the similarities and differences of the synods from their genesis it becomes quite clear that diversity outweighs unity in the CCAP. From a theological point of view we see that some of the differences are there because of different theological emphases, especially due to traditions of the mother churches that gave birth to the synods. Regarding political issues, it has been seen that the geographical and cultural contexts in which the synods are situated do contribute to the synods' perspectives on pertinent issues, as they cannot be taken to be operating in a vacuum. These observations therefore underscore the fact that the five synods' unity under the General Assembly is that of a loose federation rather than an organic one.

Keywords : Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP); Malawi; unity; diversity; general assembly; independence of synods.

        · text in English     · English ( pdf )