AFRICAN JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL THEOLOGY

Political theologies from the later decades of the 20th century have aimed to explore the nature of political agency beyond the conventional structures of nation-states and how effectively it can operate. Christians are encouraged to uphold and cherish the memories of the deceased—specifically martyrs—as a vital form of political agency in contemporary society. It is argued that the memories of slain relatives and fellow Christians can transcend feelings of pain, anger, and the desire for revenge, igniting hope and courage in the face of suffering. This essay draws on the submissions of Emmanuel Katongole, who suggests that the “practice of lament” can ignite that fire in us, as a Church, in the struggle against social injustice, violence, and exploitation in Africa. Accordingly, Katongole asserts that we must honor the memories of our African martyrs through feasts, celebrations, and similar acts in our fight against violence and injustice in Africa. While this essay acknowledges Katongole's recommendations, it posits that these feasts and festivals—serving as a means of preserving the memories of martyrs—should be given an ecclesial dimension or nuance and be celebrated within the context of the Eucharistic meal. It contends that the Eucharist imparts a universal significance to the memories of the martyrs, transcending geographical boundaries to make these memories “our memories,” regardless of the martyrs' origins. Therefore, it is essential to encourage unity and foster a sense of “family” among Christians. Otherwise, these memories will remain confined to an ethnic group, without creating a broader impact that extends beyond geographical limits. Thus, it concludes that within the context of the Eucharist, we can transcend our differences and share our memories, “Jews and Greeks alike.”

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