We Must Return To Our Roots
Whether we trace our heritage to Africa or elsewhere, being true to ourselves means reconnecting with our roots. I understand that for some, this connection is straightforward, while for others, especially those whose histories have been disrupted, it’s harder. Some have questioned my argument based on these facts. Some even went as far as accusing me of attacking Christianity or that I dismissed its positive contributions or urged people to abandon it for traditional religion. Maybe we need to talk more about this.
The Problem Isn’t Christianity—It’s Colonial Christianity
I have no patience for any version of Christianity or any religion at all that oppresses the masses. The teachings of Jesus were never meant to serve the powerful or justify exploitation. Yet “colonial Christianity” has become a nightmare for the poor. Same with nationalist Christianity. They chain people to suffering, draining their dignity and resources in God’s name. This distortion exists in every denomination and culture, and as a missionary priest, I cannot stay silent about this violence done in our name.
But let me be clear: Christianity itself is a gift. The love and sacrifice of Jesus, along with countless Christians who lived humbly and served others, remain profound examples of God’s boundless love. The problem lies in how the faith became entangled with greed, violence, and colonial control over centuries. This legacy must be confronted and stripped away. We need a Christianity that uplifts the marginalized, not one that suffocates them. For that to happen, the colonial and nationalist versions of Christianity must first die. Then after that, we need to engage with our roots.
Why Roots Matter
To heal, we must return to the wisdom of our ancestors. When missionaries spread the Gospel globally, they often confused faith with their own cultural biases. They dismissed indigenous spiritual practices, fractured communities, and severed ties to the land. Reconnecting with our roots isn’t about rejecting Christianity—it’s about digging deeper. What did our ancestors value? How did they honor the earth, build community, or understand the sacred?
Does this mean worshiping rivers or mountains? If that’s how someone connects to the divine, I won’t judge—as long as it harms no one. But even without making it a religion, we must first rebuild our relationship with nature. It’s a sacred ritual that must be re-enacted because our collective survival depends on it. Forests, rivers, and soil aren’t just “resources”; they’re life itself. Modern society commodifies them, but our ancestors knew better.
Roots Are Where Healing Begins
Returning to our roots isn’t also about nostalgia. It’s about reclaiming what colonialism erased: dignity, interconnectedness, and respect for the earth. Whether through faith, tradition or simply learning from the past, our roots hold the seeds of a better future. They remind us who we are—and who we’re called to be. So, start today by asking about your roots, and the sacred they hold. So, let Us Return To Our Root
