A new phenomenon in Zionist churches of Botswana : the use of divination bones and sacred places

Abstract

The birth of the African Initiated/Independent Churches (AICs) on the African continent brought with it phenomena which in the African worldview are not new, but in the ecclesiastical view, as perceived by the missionaries, were historically regarded as ‘unChristian’. Here we are referring to phenomena such as the use of divination bones and the belief that certain natural places are sacred. This article will focus on three issues: (1) cultural practices in Setswana Traditional Religion; (2) natural places treated as sacred places by certain churches; and (3) a phenomenological approach to the healing ministry in the Zionist churches. Conclusions will be drawn at the end to show the new emerging paradigm in the AICs in Botswana.