Masters Degrees (Religion and Social Transformation)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10413/16161

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The mission of the church in addressing alcohol and drug abuse: the case of Fazenda da Esperança healing ministry in Dombe.
(2025) Nyembo, Sango Elie.; Siwila, Lilian Cheelo.
This paper examines the role of theology in addressing substance abuse and addiction, areas traditionally dominated by scientific and sociocultural perspectives. Highlighting the work of Fazenda da Esperança in Dombe, Mozambique, the study demonstrates how integrating spiritual, work, community, and psychological support can facilitate recovery from alcohol and drug addiction. Through qualitative analysis, the findings reveal the importance of spirituality, family, and work in the transformative journey toward healing, portraying Fazenda as a potential model for holistic recovery.
Critical analysis of women headed household economy: a theological investigation in kwaNxamalala community, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
(2025) Dlamini, Nokukhanya Viera.; Zwane, Sithembiso Samuel.
Economy is a cross-cutting concern for Africa and South Africa in particular. The ongoing economic instability predominantly impacts women, who make up a substantial portion of South Africa's population. Economic disproportion cause breakages in families, which increase the rate of women-headed households that fail to sustain their households. Report by Statistics SA (2022/2023) highlights a remarkable increase of women-headed families in South Africa. Household economy is the critical factor in determining how livelihoods and countries are sustained and progress. The researcher intends to investigate and analyse the intersections of gender, economy, and theology, focusing on the experiences of women heading households. Evidence is scarce on how women-headed households in developing and emerging economies like South Africa sustain their livelihoods. Experiences of women heading households are the core of the study whereby theological lenses are incorporated to learn and unlearn oppressive and gendered notions in economic narratives. Foundational theories for the study are intersectionality theory and theologies of survival. Underpinnings of selected theories embrace different intersectional elements, including structural, political, and representational perspectives. Theologies of survival explore platforms of resilience currently operational in theological spaces. This study followed a qualitative approach to gain comprehensive understanding of social phenomena in people’s natural environments and to comprehend how individuals perceive their surroundings, relying on direct experiences of the people. The desktop approach to gain comprehensive understanding of social phenomena is through obtaining exhaustive data from literature using the case study method. The purposive method of sampling has been selected to collect verified data about the key population and analysed through thematic analysis tool. Women-headed households are multifaceted by various factors expressed by both social and theological constructs embedded in patriarchy. The composition of women-headed households is a wide concept and household headship is highly contested. Scriptures hold true reflection of God’s view in terms of economic justice. Theology of resilience in feminist perspective is concluded as the response to structural systems formed against the liberation of women’s economic status. The narrative of Zelophehad’s daughters provides fundamental principles of the theology of resilience. In this account, all families were represented by male figures except Zelophehad’s household, which was women-headed. Zelophehad’s daughters challenged the marginalization of women-headed households. They resisted dominant patriarchal systems that controlled access to economic resources, which was land in their case. They voiced out for their economic right to access land even though they had no male representative in their family. Nevertheless, they challenged the strong and influential Jewish culture of their time. Resilience became their theology of survival. As a result, the theology of resilience is recommended as a tool of response to the concept of the women-headed household economy.
Reimagining dominion: eco-theological critiques to care for our common home.
(2025) Matjoafi, Kgomotso.; Zwane , Sithembiso.
study examines the biblical-theological concepts of Dominion Theology as an alternative form of criticism based on Critical Theory and Eco-Theology, and the ecological problems that the world is facing are also addressed. For a creation narrative, which is sometimes human-centered, Dominion Theology has served as a ground for exploitive control over creation by defining human beings as having power over creation and not as caregivers- which is, i.e., the anthropocentric view /misinterpretation of Genesis 2. Given the extent of this inadequate lens in the understanding of ecological sustainability, the dissertation seeks to transform dominion and its theological implications in light of a contemporary eco-theological perspective. Conducting a qualitative research inside a critical research paradigm that integrates the theoretical frameworks to deconstruct hegemonic ideologies embedded in traditional theological narratives using a qualitative methodology. At the same time, Eco-Theology serves as a constructive framework, advocating for an ethic of care, interconnectedness, and responsibility toward the environment. Table 1 identified the historical and theological foundations of dominion theology, and the study in green found evidence of ecological degradation contributed by visions of this type of theology and discussion that implies alternatives and sustainability. The findings show that a new vision of dominion theology, which is influenced by eco-theological principles, can be an appropriate concept for dealing with environmental difficulties. These are contained in changing the theological discussion from human exceptionalism to a comprehensive comprehension of creation as a community of life. On top of that, the research reveals the role of faith communities in cultivating ecological consciousness and action, so the potential to play a central role in environmental advocacy and care is highlighted. This study is a significant part of the constantly developing interdisciplinary dialogue between theology, critical theory, and environmental ethics. It presents the latest theological notions that the global movement of “care for our common home” is urged to follow. Therefore, in addition to the explanations of the theoretical framework, the book opens the vistas of a green theology oriented to practical implications already implied by academic criticism and lays the groundwork for the future eco-theological research and practical implications to actions and biodiversity, vegetable experimentation, and energy sources efficiency, which allows ecofeminism, which is an intersection of ecological and feminist theories, to be explored.
Queering masculinity: engaging the performance and meaning among Nagara dancers in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
(2025) Ramdhani, Nicoshe.; Muslim, Cherry Leigh.
This thesis explores Nagara dancing as a site of ritual embodiment, gender negotiation, and spiritual expression within the South African Indian Hindu diaspora. Grounded in lived experience and guided by phenomenology, interpretative analysis, and reflexive thematic analysis, the research interrogates how male dancers perform and reconfigure masculinity through devotional enactments of the Hindu Goddess Saraswati. Drawing from focus groups and interviews with four experienced Nagara dancers, the study reveals that ritual choreography challenges binary gender norms, allowing for a fluid interplay between masculine and feminine expression. The findings present Nagara as a queer form of dance, where the performance of sacred femininity becomes a pathway to masculine expansion rather than contradiction. Within this ritual framework, dancers experience emotional safety, relational care, and generational mentorship, positioning the temple stage as a sacred refuge for contested identities. Ultimately, the study affirms that Nagara is not simply inherited; it is reimagined through embodied labour, aesthetic translation, and spiritual resilience. Masculinity, here, is not static; it moves.
Healthcare workers negotiate religious pluralism in men who have sex with men health care provision.
(2025) Gangerdine, Aziel.; Van Der Walt, Charlene.
No abstract.
The role of black women in shaping Soweto's methodism (1950-2000): uncovering hidden narratives of black women in a racial society through feminist critical historiography.
(2025) Masiza, Akhona.; Kumalo, Simanga Raymond.
In the vibrant community of Soweto, where the rhythm of life pulses with resilience, the stories of our ancestors remain enduring beacons of survival. Yet, dominant historiographies of Southern African mainstream history and Christianity marginalise, misrepresent or erase the contributions of Black women, particularly within Methodist traditions. Despite comprising a significant majority and active participation in many Christian denominations, women’s historical roles and leadership in Soweto’s Methodism remain undervalued. Since the late twentieth century, African feminist theologians and historians have made significant strides in highlighting and vocalising women’s theological and social agency. However, most studies approach Black Methodist women’s experiences from broad continental or national perspectives, leaving gaps in localised historical analyses. This study intends to address that gap by uncovering the hidden narratives of Black Methodist women in Soweto between 1950 and 2000. It critically examines how their spirituality, social agency, leadership, and resistance to apartheid and patriarchy shaped Methodism in this context - five decades of struggle, resistance, and transformation. Guided by feminist critical historiography, the study draws on three oral history case studies- oral testimonies, archival materials, and church records to challenge historical erasure. The findings reveal that Black women in Soweto were not passive observers, but central figures whose presence, spiritual leadership, and talents drove the growth of Methodist congregations. Their persistent advocacy for justice contributed significantly to broader social transformation. The novelty of this study lies in its explicit focus on local narratives, recognising these women as dynamic and unique agents of ecclesial, social, and political change. By applying feminist historiography to Soweto’s unique socio-political and religious landscape, the study contributes to the contemporary feminist theology and church leadership discourse. It calls upon scholars, ecclesiastics, and policymakers to acknowledge women’s integral contributions and to reimagine church history and leadership through more inclusive, just, and contextually grounded lenses.
An analysis of the religio-cultural perception of abortion of marange people of Zimbabwe using a feminist engagement.
(2024) Rubete, Rubbie.; Siwila, Lillian Cheelo.
This study uses a feminist approach to analyse Marange people’s religio-cultural perceptions of abortion in Marange district of Manicaland province in Zimbabwe. The study was motivated by an increase in maternal mortality observed in Marange rural district. The study seeks to answer the key research question, which is: How can a feminist critical engagement with Marange people’s perceptions of abortion contribute to life-affirmation of young women in Marange? Young and old women in Marange district expressed their views, attitudes and perceptions of abortion as one of women’s sexual reproductive rights. This study excludes males and minors’ participation. The theoretical frameworks used in this study are Feminist Cultural Hermeneutics and Reproductive Justice. Feminist Cultural Hermeneutics looks at how women’s understanding of certain concepts is influenced by a given culture at a given time. Reproductive Justice advocates for freedom of choice by women in any given society. These clearly show that the social needs and individual bodily aspects of pregnant women cannot be separated. According to the interviewed Marange women, unwanted pregnancies are the major cause of backyard abortions, which are rampant in Marange. The study found that Marange women use a variety of abortifacients to terminate unwanted pregnancies. It is surprising to note that despite the designed strict abortion policies, men at times support, initiate and fund clandestine abortion acts, when they intend to cover up the shame and decline the responsibility begotten from unwanted pregnancies that occur outside of marriage.
Because the bible tells me so: engaging the role of bible interpretation in the engagement of the queer community by the methodist ministers in Pietermaritzburg.
(2025) Radebe, Emmanuel Vusumuzi.; van der Walt, Charlene.
No abstract.
Stabanising the eucharist: theological implications of the eucharist in the UCCSA for reimagining an inclusive and embodied community of faith.
(2024) Morrison, Craig Graham Farrel.; Van Der Walt, Charlene.
Every person has a sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIE-SC). It’s an inclusive term that applies to every individual human being, irrespective of how they self-identify. Every person has a human right to sexual self-identity, whether as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, Queer, asexual, two-spirit, heterosexual or cisgender (identifying with the same gender that one was assigned at birth). A contextual equivalent of the reclaimed word “Queer” in South Africa is Izitabane, a plural. It is an isiZulu expression that literally means, “here come the gays”. In this dissertation, I argue for the contextual use of this term. Izitabane members of the Church are still most often marginalised and rejected. It is appropriate to reclaim such terminology in our African context as a self-identity. The author is an active and committed member of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA). The UCCSA identifies itself as “a justice Church”. This Church ordains women, “welcomes all”, and affirms that prejudice based on sexual orientation (“homophobia”) is a sin. Yet, despite declaring itself a justice Church, its clergy are prohibited from conducting, concluding or blessing same-sex marriages, even though samesex marriage is constitutionally legal in South Africa. There appears to be a disconnect between the Church’s claim to be a justice Church that “welcomes all” and the full inclusion and acceptance (open and affirming stance) of Izitabane members. This dissertation explores the current SOGIE-SC landscape within the UCCSA based upon the ostensibly competing resolutions of its highest court, the General Assembly, and asks whether the theological distinctives in its understanding of Covenant and Eucharist can bridge that disconnect, since this is a matter of justice. It is especially pertinent since Izitabane persons suffer violence, harm, bigoted discrimination, ostracism and rejection for no other reason than innate sexual orientation and desired identity. Queering, or stabanising, refers to the intentional process of decolonising theological heteronormative patriarchy in faith and praxis. In this paper, through the lens of Systematic Theology, I discuss Queer theory, Eucharist and its Covenantal implications in the UCCSA, explore what it might mean to re-imagine the Eucharist and to stabanise Eucharistic liturgy. The research concludes with a working example of a reimagined, more inclusive, and stabanised Eucharist as an expression of our embodied Covenant.
Tracing 19th-century scientific racism and its implications for contemporary gender discourses of religion in South Africa.
(2025) Fela, Sphosethu.; Settler, Federico Guliano.
This study hypothesizes that current Christian religious discourses and attitudes toward the black female body, such as religious identity marked through sexuality, purity culture, (in)fertility rituals, menstruation and the exclusion from communion or prayers, have been influenced and informed by 19th-century scientific assumptions of the black female body as 1) source of pollution, 2) hypersexual/oversexed, and 3) unruly and feral. These scientific assumptions of the black female body can be said to be the genesis of our current realities as (black) women in South Africa of gender-based violence, sexual assault and femicide (Roberts, 1997; Baderoon, 2014). In postcolonial South Africa, the black female body continues to be seen as the measure of moral order, and social order, conversion and civility are maintained through the regulation of (black) women's sexuality. How the black female body and sexuality are defined and controlled using Western and Christian religious discourse calls for the need for a decolonial feminist lens to make sense of the present by searching the past in hopes of constructing a new narrative about the black female body and a new hope for black women living in a world not meant for them. In this study, I am interested in tracing how the Church in South Africa viewed and still views the black female body through the lens of 19th-century scientific racism and sexism. To unearth the interconnections of race, science, and religion regarding the black female body, my study uses the feminist philosophy of science as a framework. Employing feminist philosophy of science will enable the study to illuminate the Black female as a gendered body, how 19th-century science has commodified, dehumanized, hypersexualized, and exploited this gendered body and how the colonial classifications of race and black(ness) have played a significant role in this. Drawing on selected colonial texts and scholars, I hope to show how their ideas shaped how people thought about race, gender and religion in the colonial period. As its methodology, my study employs Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis (FCDA). This methodology hones on social justice issues and transformation. Similar to the aims of Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis, my research hopes to challenge current Christian religious discourses that subordinate black women and repress their agency and autonomy in the name of culture and religion.
Climate change and the United Church of Zambia: an indigenous African theological response.
(2024) Njovu, Christopher.; Madondo, Mfazo Cliford.
This thesis purpose is to explore the need for an appropriate indigenous response to climate change within the United Church of Zambia (UCZ). The thesis argument is that the UCZ's inadequate response to climate change is due to the absence of a suitable African theological approach. Therefore by determining an appropriate African theological response, the thesis seeks to address the impact of climate change on communities, including the UCZ, in Zambia. It also aims at identifying African resources that can be drawn upon to mitigate climate change and advocates for a more holistic approach that considers social, economic, and environmental factors. In order to achieve these goals, the study utilizes a qualitative method, involving observations, and analysis of textual or visual data. The findings highlighted are that, the UCZ has insufficient response to climate change and the thesis recommends the enhancing of knowledge, understanding of climate change and indigenous knowledge among church leaders. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the urgency of responding to climate change within faith-based communities and underscores the critical role of theology in influencing positive action towards a sustainable future.
Towards the flourishing of Women Ministers in Evangelical Lutheran church in Southern Africa: an African women’s theological engagement with the lived experiences and systemic realities faced by women ministers in the Evangelical Lutheran church in Southern Africa-South Eastern diocese.
(2024) Ngcobo, Nondumiso.; Van der Walt, Charlene.
Towards the flourishing of Women Ministers in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa: An African Women’s Theological engagement with the lived experiences and systemic realities faced by Women Ministers in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa- South Eastern Diocese. A phenomenological study of lived experiences of women ministers and how they are influenced by systematic patriarchy in their ministry and career growth. The study listened to seven (7) women ministers of ELCSA in their ministerial journey from pre-ordination to ordination and working the field to discover lessons that could be derived from the environmental inhibitors/enhancers of the flourishing of women in ministry. The study looked at processes, acceptance of women and policies and programmes that support flourishing and further sought recommendations from these women on what could be done to enhance women's flourishing. The study used phenomenological approach and held interviews to collect data to understand these lived experiences. Interviews were either face to face or virtual depending on the availability of participants. Engagement with participants enabled the study to draw some conclusions on factors such as heteronormativity, enculturation and absence of gender affirming policies as inhibiting the flourishing of women ministers in ELCSA. The study unveiled an unexpected theme of how sexual reproductive rights as a “sin” has inhibited the flourishing of unmarried young women ministers and remains even a regret for some. Lastly, based on the conclusions drawn, the study brought forth recommendations that may influence or enhance the flourishing of women ministers in ELCSA. The study asserts that should ELCSA leadership engage with gender equity policies, employment policies and clear disciplinary processes that foster a Human Rights advocating space, ELCSA can become an empowering safe space where the flourishing of women ministers can be enhanced and achieved.
An eco-theological analysis of the Eglise du Christ au Congo’s pastoral response to mineral resources-based conflicts in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
(2024) Matanda, Serge Nsaka.; Settler, Federico Guliano.
This research delves into the multifaceted conflict dynamics in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with a specific focus on the impact of mineral resources on these conflicts. Through a systematic review of literature and scholarly debates, this study explores various approaches to understanding and addressing the mineral-based conflicts in the region. Furthermore, the dissertation examines the role of the Eglise du Christ au Congo (ECC) in engaging with and responding to these conflicts from a pastoral and theological perspective. By shedding light on the complexities of mineral-based conflicts in the Eastern region of DRC and the interventions of religious institutions, this research contributes to the broader discourse on conflict resolution and peacebuilding in resource-rich, but conflict-affected regions. In recent years, the eastern region of the DRC has been plagued with multifaceted conflicts, characterised by violence, human rights abuses, and the displacement of populations. One of the key drivers of these conflicts is the abundance of mineral resources in the region, which has led to competition and exploitation by various armed groups and external actors. This study considers the economic, political, and social dimensions of these conflicts, as well as the impact on local communities and the environment. By synthesizing existing knowledge, the research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the root causes and consequences of mineral-based conflicts in the region. Furthermore, the dissertation explores the role of the ECC in engaging with and responding to these conflicts. Churches have long been influential institutions in the DRC, with a strong presence in local communities. This research examines how churches have used their moral authority and religious networks to promote peace and reconciliation and provide pastoral care amid the conflict. It also considers the theological perspectives about the value and care of the environment that might underpin engagement with questions of forgiveness, justice, and human dignity in the pursuit of peace. Overall, this research contributes to the broader discourses on pastoral care as it relates to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in resource-rich, but conflict-affected regions.
Silent no more: religion engaging with gender-based violence in South Africa: a case study on the “We Will Speak Out South Africa” Coalition.
(2024) Shriduth, Meriska Avalyn.; Vencatsamy, Beverly.
GBV (gender-based violence) remains a pervasive and multifaceted issue globally affecting individuals across diverse socio-cultural and religious contexts. FBOs (faith-based organisations) have emerged as significant actors in combating GBV due to their influential presence and moral authority within communities. This dissertation will outline religion engaging with GBV in south Africa with a specific focus on a case study on the We Will Speak Out South Africa (WWSOSA) coalition FBOs engage in GBV prevention and response efforts through a range of strategies, including awareness-raising campaigns, community education and the provision of support services. Their interventions often integrate theological perspectives, emphasising the principles of dignity, equality and compassion to challenge harmful gender norms and to promote respectful relationships. However, FBO engagement in GBV work also presents challenges, including the potential for reinforcing patriarchal structures or encountering resistance from conservative interpretations of religious doctrine. Effective collaboration between FBOs and secular organisations is crucial for navigating these complexities, ensuring holistic and inclusive approaches to GBV prevention and response. The abstract underscores the importance of recognising the diverse roles and experiences of FBOs in addressing GBV. By harnessing the moral authority and community networks of FBOs, concerted efforts can be made towards creating safer and more equitable societies for all individuals, irrespective of gender or faith affiliation.
Examining religio-cultural beliefs among women towards induced abortions in Noodsberg and Esidumbini communities of faith: a case study.
(2023) Khoza, Mduduzi Godhelp.; Siwila, Lilian Cheelo.
South Africa is among the countries that have legalised the termination of pregnancy. This means women are free to decide whether to keep their pregnancy without being penalised by the legal system. Even though healthcare systems provide low cost or even free services, the country continues to witness an increase in illegal abortions carried out by untrained personnel in health compromised conditions. These illegal abortions have contributed to serious health complications that in some cases, lead to the death of young women, who are the main risk population in this exercise. This is despite South Africa having one of the world’s most progressive legal framework for abortion. The aim of this dissertation is to investigate factors leading to unsafe abortions especially among young women. The paper uses a qualitative approach to assess factors leading to these young women opting for illegal abortion. Using reproductive justice framework and intersectional feminism as a theoretical framework, the dissertation assessed the extent to which religion and culture play a role in the use of illegal abortions. The study will be conducted in the Noodsberg and Esidumbini rural areas in KwaZulu-Natal province. The choice of this community is in line with the previous research on termination of pregnancy which showed that opposition towards the Termination of Pregnancy Act was strong in this part of the country. Findings from this study indicated that opposition to this act was partly based on religious and cultural norms of the people within this community. It is from this background that this dissertation sought to examine these religio-cultural beliefs towards termination of pregnancy among women in South Africa.
Powerful, penetrator, provider:a religio-cultural analysis of masculanilty production in men's conference promotional media in the Southern African pentecostal context
Ngcobo, Siwakhile.; Van der Walt, Charlene.
No abstract available.
Trauma, memory, and spirituality in the experiences of women who survived the Gukurahundi atrocities.
Abraham, Pretty.; Denis, Philippe Marie Berthe Raoul.
In conflict zones, women and girls are frequently the most vulnerable and suffer the most harm. Their precarious position makes them easy target for heinous human rights violations such as rape and torture. Women survivors of these atrocities often must live with vivid and horrifying memories of rape, war, and death for the rest of their lives. This was the case for women who survived the Gukurahundi massacres in Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland and Midlands areas, where the Fifth Brigade army committed grave human rights violations. The violence that happened between 1983 and 1987 left communities wounded and destabilised. understanding women’s traumatic experiences in the context of their surroundings is crucial for understanding how they process, recall, and deal with traumatic experiences. Furthermore, women’s experiences of trauma constitute an important starting point for understanding their lived reality. The goal of this studywas to document women’s accounts of the Gukurahundi massacres as well as to examine how they remember and cope with their traumatic past. This study also looked into how women express spirituality and construct meaning in the aftermath of the atrocities. The findings reveal that sexual violence trauma memories are highly detailed and enduring, even over long periods of time. Survivors recall their rape experiences clearly and in great detail, and their memories have shaped their current worldview. The personal experiences that women relate in this study include not just a history of what happened during Gukurahundi, but also the ongoing suffering and pain that they continue to endure in the present. Despite a possible Christian background, the women make no mention of their Christian faith and instead rely on their African traditional beliefs to construct and find meaning for their trauma. as a result, the chain of events and their repercussions are understood from a cultural standpoint.
Confronting coloniality: the potential for a South African decolonial theology of whiteness.
(2022) Elliott, David.; West, Gerald Oakley.
This dissertation seeks to offer a potential theoretical framework within the discipline of African theology for engaging, subverting and transforming the phenomenon of Whiteness in the post-colonial, post-Apartheid South African context. This framework is developed through bringing three theoretical frameworks into dialogue with one another. These theoretical frameworks are South African Black Theology, Decolonial theory, and South African Whiteness Studies. Through the use of dialectical analysis I produce a South African Decolonial frame for theological reflection on Whiteness. Throughout this dissertation a selfreflexive method of study is also used. As a white scholar I regularly situate myself and my own Whiteness in the context of the discourse, allowing myself both as a scholar and as a person to be informed by black-led theory and black scholarship.
An African theological assessment of the pastoral response of the Roman Catholic Church to the socio-economic impact of the emerging Covid-19 pandemic in South Africa.
(2022) Kamta Tatsi, Gilbert.; Haddad, Beverley Gail.
The Covid-19 pandemic has created unprecedented socio-economic hardships globally. The austerities brought about by Covid-19 has affected all sectors of society. Religious, economic, and political sectors have felt the ordeal of the humanitarian crisis. The emergence of the pandemic in South Africa in March 2020 has had a huge socio-economic impact, mostly on the poor and the less privileged in society. The pandemic has highlighted and exacerbated preexisting socio-economic inequalities in South Africa. These aggravated inequalities include corruption, unemployment, gender-based violence, and access to public healthcare. This study is an appraisal of the pastoral response of the Roman Catholic Church to the socio-economic impact of the emerging pandemic in South Africa. Central to this study is the contribution that African liberation theology offers, with particular emphasis on the philosophy of Ujamaa and the theology of Ubuntu, in strengthening the pastoral response of the Roman Catholic Church to the socio-economic impact of the emerging Covid-19 pandemic in the country. The methodology of See-Judge-Act is used in the study. The ‘see’ corresponds to the critical analysis of the socio-economic context of the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic in South Africa. Conceptually, ‘judge’ uses the guiding categories of the philosophy of Ujamaa and the theology of Ubuntu to thematically analyse various pastoral documents published by the Roman Catholic Church in South Africa in its response to the emerging pandemic during the period March 2020 – March 2021. The ‘act’ elaborates the potential socially transformative actions from the principles of Ujamaa and Ubuntu that would render a more effective the pastoral response of the Roman Catholic Church to the socio-economic impact of the continuing Covid-19 pandemic in South Africa.
Is liberation worth suffering for? an exploration of the impact of religion on the process of queer identity construction, expression, and negotiation in Cape Town, South Africa.
(2023) Donald., Charlene Chenaye.; Van der Walt, Charlene.

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