Inculturation as a fundamental strategy for true christian living among the Catholics of Mbuye Parish, Masaka Diocese

Abstract

This research aims to establish the thesis that inculturation is very fundamental in shaping true Christian lives of the Catholics of Mbuye parish. This was arrived at through analysis of the available literature from which a gap was identified that despite the many years of Christianity in Uganda, Catholics in Mbuye parish still exhibit low commitment to their Christian faith, yet very faithful to their cultural values and practices. In order to bridge this gap in practice and theory, research was carried out in field. All these processes and data are presented in this five-chapter research report. In this research, through interviews and Focus Group Discussions, it is established that the gospel message has remained foreign to the people, there is little knowledge of some elements of the culture of the Baganda (especially the Supreme Being) and Catholic Christianity, and that the Baganda cherish their culture a lot. It is only through inculturation that the gospel message can speak to the people in their setting, help them understand the Supreme Being as the God of Christianity and become committed Christians through the appreciation of both culture and Christianity as compatible realities. It is only through effective inculturation that Christianity can be appreciated and cherished as much as culture is done. Once this dialogue is achieved, true Christian commitment is assured, whereas, the reverse is true. Effective inculturation can best be done explanation of the unknown realities in culture, providing Christian answers to people’s problems, intensified catechesis and providing Christian rites for more cultural celebrations. Effective and active preaching plus inter-personal interaction between the pastors and Christians are also necessary. All in all, this research report justifies inculturation as a fundamental strategy for true Christian living among the Catholics of Mbuye parish.