Methodism and transformation in South Africa : 20 years of constitutional democracy

Abstract

It has been two decades since South Africa became a constitutional democracy. The transition of power in this country has not necessarily meant that the majority of South Africans have experienced a transformed life. The incessant experience of poverty, poor service delivery and lack of political will to facilitate change is leading to violent protest action. This article investigates the progression in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa’s theological understanding of its role in being an agent of change in local communities. It does so by reflecting on the Church’s place in the current political context, its programmes and recent initiatives in its mission-based focus.