The third Evangelisation of Africa: A lasting one?

Present Signs and Impact of the Church in Africa on the Universal Church

Abstract

The period of the first evangelisation of Africa was a flourishing one for the Church in Africa, but it came to an abrupt end with the victorious invasion of Africa by Islam in the second half of the 7th century. The second phase, between the 15th and 16th centuries, ended in the 18th century due to various difficulties. After these two unsuccessful attempts, a third phase began in the 19th century and continues to this day. The failure of the first two attempts is often explained by the fact that the faith did not take root because it was not deeply rooted in African culture. In the present phase of the third evangelisation of Africa, do we have sufficient reasons to consider it a lasting one? What do Africans need to do to recognise themselves in the culture of the Church?  How can canon law contribute to this process?