Towards Rwandan Contemporary Healing Ministry in the Light of Markan Exorcisms
Towards Rwandan Contemporary Healing Ministry in the Light of Markan Exorcisms

Summary/Abstract: The post-Enlightenment era has decreased interest in the spiritual world and the impact of spiritual realms on the material world. This view has affected the preaching of the Gospel in the Western context. Unlikely, in non-Western communities, spirit possession is still regarded as a daily experience. Different techniques are used to help those affected by malevolent spirits. Unfortunately, the early Christian missionaries who evangelized Rwanda and other African societies disregarded this traditional cultural experience. Recently, as an attempt to inculturate the Gospel, the Church in Rwanda initiated a Christian-focused healing ministry. So far, this initiative from sensus fidelium appears pastorally innovative and helpful. However, it comes with some deviations that the Church’s hierarchy is in great need to address. This article suggests that the Gospel of Mark provides genuine healing and exorcism, relevant to the Church in Rwanda in its efforts to meet the needs of those affected by malevolent spirits. It also argues that a Christian healing prayer is the only way to cope with a huge cultural demonology in Rwanda.

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