This book is a series of exerpts from speeches and sermons by Archbishop Tutu, the South African cleric who was one of the courageous blacks who helped overthrow Apartheid.
There is a chapter quoting him on the nature of human community, and one outlining a Radical Program for Reconciliation.
He was severely criticized for advocating forgiveness of those who have caused suffering, Nazis,and the Dutch Reformed church, which advocated Apartheid and preached that Jews and Palestinians must forgive each other.
Tutu was head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as the liberated country of South African struggled to free itself from the rule of white supremacy.
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, Tutu visited churches throughout Africa supporting “the continent’s churches as they campaigned for human rights” — Sudan, Angola, Zaire and Ethopia.
In 1989 he joined other heads of the Anglican churches, visiting and preaching in Central America, and two years later in Ireland.
The book ends on a sad note with Tutu commenting on the fact that having won their great victory, South African leaders have in many areas become as corrupt and dictatorial as their former oppressors.
What courage this scrappy Bishop shows the world.
[Published 2011]
Write a Letter to the Editor on this Article
We encourage readers to offer their point of view on this article by submitting the following form. Editing is sometimes necessary and is done at the discretion of the editorial staff.