Ancestral veneration of the core of African Spiritual renewal among the AICs in South Africa

Abstract

The subject of ancestral veneration in the lives of Africans is prominent among the AIC for various reasons. Ancestral veneration carries a spiritual responsibility and a sense of unity and most members of the AIC view it as significant. For instance, true spirituality, to AIC, involves respect for parents, fighting for justice, coping with sickness, misfortunes and witchcraft, and appeasing the ancestors. Life does not end with death but, among traditional Africans, goes beyond to the living dead. This article intends to indicate the objective of ancestor veneration as a core of AIC spiritual renewal. It wishes to sanction debate between the historic churches and the AIC in South Africa. AIC is growing very fast and, sooner or later, will overtake the historic missionary perception of the mainline churches in South Africa. Finally, the issue of ancestor veneration in Africa cannot be avoided any longer.