New Book: Christian Faith among the Jieeng
Christian Faith among the Jieeng
The Shift in Values, the Stages of Faith, and the Cultural and Religious Experiences of Jieeng Believers in the Episcopal Diocese of Bor
by Nathaniel Athian Deng Mayen, BSW, Rev.
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In Christian Faith among the Jieeng, Rev. Nathaniel Athian Deng Mayen provides an insider’s perspective on the development of Christian faith among the Jieeng (Dinka). Based on his teaching and clergy experiences and observations, Rev. Athian discusses the stages of faith, the shift in values and beliefs, and the cultural and religious experiences of Jieeng believers in the Episcopal Diocese of Bor. The author maintains that the shift in Jieeng cultural values and the subsequent conversion to Christianity are a result of the believers’ experiences and encounters with God. God mysteriously reveals Himself to the animist believers and wins their hearts through miracles. Thus, the miracles reveal the powerlessness of the animist deities (jak) whom the believers consequently abandon and embrace Christianity. Christian Faith among the Jieeng is an introductory discussion that opens up conversations about Jieeng spirituality in the context of Christian faith. The book draws attention to cultural teachings about social relationships, youth responsibilities, women’s leadership, and the role of leaders in guiding the faith and behaviors of the believers. It also discuss the following questions. Is Christianity the existence of God or a colonial tool to disintegrate indigenous cultures and values among the Jieeng? Why is Christianity miraculously taking precedence over indigenous religions and animist worships? What happened after the Jieeng believers in the Episcopal Diocese of Bor preferably embraced Christianity and abandoned their animist deities and divinities?
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