Afriprov.org

     In December, 1992 a Society of Africa Missions (SMA) priest in Bugisi Parish, Shinyanga Diocese, Tanzania used the Sukuma myth of the clever young man Masala Kulangwa and the monster in his Christmas homily. The Sukuma people in the congregation were surprised. At first they did not understand the connection between the myth and Christian teaching, that is, the close comparison between the Sukuma hero Masala Kulangwa and Jesus Christ, the savior and redeemer. Later they appreciated the story very much and even sang the Sukuma song of the myth in church during the mass. This presents the challenge of pastoral inculturation. Often the local African people do not make the connections between their rich cultural traditions and the Christian faith. African oral literature such as proverbs, stories and songs help to make these connections.