The degree to which Christianity has been embraced by Africa south of the Sahara has been a phenomenon that has led to a closer examination of the mutual impact of the Christian faith and African culture.

"This insightful and informative work explores the Africanization of Catholic worship in Congo (Zaire) and its implications for the world Church. In his Foreword, noted liturgist David Power says that Celebrating Jesus Christ in Africa is important not only for "informing readers about churches of Africa, but in offering wisdom to other churches facing questions about possible developments in their own liturgies."" "Kabasele Lumbala asks challenging questions regarding the issues of rites and inculturation: Which society, culture, and theology are hormative in deciding the shape of liturgy? He shows how African Christians are forging a synthesis between the Christian mystery, the Roman form of celebration and their own culture. Celebrating Jesus Christ in Africa is must reading for missioners, liturgists, theologians and all those concerned with the expression of culture in the rituals of the church."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Thomas C. Oden surveys the decisive role of African Christians and theologians in shaping the doctrines and practices of the church of the first five centuries, and makes an impassioned plea for the rediscovery of that heritage. Christians throughout the world will benefit from this reclaiming of an important heritage.