A Survey of Presbyterian Mission History in Africa

A Survey of Presbyterian Mission History in Africa – Historic beginnings (c.1790s to c.1930s) Volume One is a seminal and fascinating book. In a captivating way, with more than 150 historical pictures, illustrations and maps, it gives a comprehensive survey of the early beginnings of Presbyterian churches across the whole of Africa. An illustrious and multi-ethnic team of scholars contributed to the well-researched and well-written chapters. It not only covers the history of the founding of the respective Presbyterian churches but also adds several bio-insets on colourful pioneers in the growth of Christianity in Africa. Although the book describes the zeal and dedication of the pioneer missionaries, and the huge sacrifices they often made, this mission history is deliberately not written from an uncritical viewpoint of the Western mission enterprise but in each chapter the contribution of the first converts (ordained and lay members, including women) is acknowledged and described. It underscores the historical fact that “the church grew primarily because of the work of new Christians.” With this book, the editor, Jack Whytock, makes a marvellous contribution to the understanding of Christianity in Africa, and especially the important role of the Presbyterian Churches in this regard. The book will be an invaluable resource for students, church leaders and people doing scholarly research on the enthralling early history of the planting of churches in Africa.