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From The Times

December 27, 2008

As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God

Missionaries, not aid money, are the solution to Africa's biggest problem - the crushing passivity of the people's mindset

Matthew Parris

Before Christmas I returned, after 45 years, to the country that as a boy I knew as Nyasaland. Today it's Malawi, and The Times Christmas Appeal includes a small British charity working there. Pump Aid helps rural communities to install a simple pump, letting people keep their village wells sealed and clean. I went to see this work.

It inspired me, renewing my flagging faith in development charities. But travelling in Malawi refreshed another belief, too: one I've been trying to banish all my life, but an observation I've been unable to avoid since my African childhood. It confounds my ideological beliefs, stubbornly refuses to fit my world view, and has embarrassed my growing belief that there is no God.

Now a confirmed atheist, I've become convinced of the enormous contribution that Christian evangelism makes in Africa: sharply distinct from the work of secular NGOs, government projects and international aid efforts. These alone will not do. Education and training alone will not do. In Africa Christianity changes people's hearts. It brings a spiritual transformation. The rebirth is real. The change is good.

I used to avoid this truth by applauding - as you can - the practical work of mission churches in Africa. It's a pity, I would say, that salvation is part of the package, but Christians black and white, working in Africa, do heal the sick, do teach people to read and write; and only the severest kind of secularist could see a mission hospital or school and say the world would be better without it. I would allow that if faith was needed to motivate missionaries to help, then, fine: but what counted was the help, not the faith.

But this doesn't fit the facts. Faith does more than support the missionary; it is also transferred to his flock. This is the effect that matters so immensely, and which I cannot help observing.

First, then, the observation. We had friends who were missionaries, and as a child I stayed often with them; I also stayed, alone with my little brother, in a traditional rural African village. In the city we had working for us Africans who had converted and were strong believers. The Christians were always different. Far from having cowed or confined its converts, their faith appeared to have liberated and relaxed them. There was a liveliness, a curiosity, an engagement with the world - a directness in their dealings with others - that seemed to be missing in traditional African life. They stood tall.

At 24, travelling by land across the continent reinforced this impression. From Algiers to Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon and the Central African Republic, then right through the Congo to Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya, four student friends and I drove our old Land Rover to Nairobi.

We slept under the stars, so it was important as we reached the more populated and lawless parts of the sub-Sahara that every day we find somewhere safe by nightfall. Often near a mission.

Whenever we entered a territory worked by missionaries, we had to acknowledge that something changed in the faces of the people we passed and spoke to: something in their eyes, the way they approached you direct, man-to-man, without looking down or away. They had not become more deferential towards strangers - in some ways less so - but more open.

This time in Malawi it was the same. I met no missionaries. You do not encounter missionaries in the lobbies of expensive hotels discussing development strategy documents, as you do with the big NGOs. But instead I noticed that a handful of the most impressive African members of the Pump Aid team (largely from Zimbabwe) were, privately, strong Christians. “Privately” because the charity is entirely secular and I never heard any of its team so much as mention religion while working in the villages. But I picked up the Christian references in our conversations. One, I saw, was studying a devotional textbook in the car. One, on Sunday, went off to church at dawn for a two-hour service.

It would suit me to believe that their honesty, diligence and optimism in their work was unconnected with personal faith. Their work was secular, but surely affected by what they were. What they were was, in turn, influenced by a conception of man's place in the Universe that Christianity had taught.

There's long been a fashion among Western academic sociologists for placing tribal value systems within a ring fence, beyond critiques founded in our own culture: “theirs” and therefore best for “them”; authentic and of intrinsically equal worth to ours.

I don't follow this. I observe that tribal belief is no more peaceable than ours; and that it suppresses individuality. People think collectively; first in terms of the community, extended family and tribe. This rural-traditional mindset feeds into the “big man” and gangster politics of the African city: the exaggerated respect for a swaggering leader, and the (literal) inability to understand the whole idea of loyal opposition.

Anxiety - fear of evil spirits, of ancestors, of nature and the wild, of a tribal hierarchy, of quite everyday things - strikes deep into the whole structure of rural African thought. Every man has his place and, call it fear or respect, a great weight grinds down the individual spirit, stunting curiosity. People won't take the initiative, won't take things into their own hands or on their own shoulders.

How can I, as someone with a foot in both camps, explain? When the philosophical tourist moves from one world view to another he finds - at the very moment of passing into the new - that he loses the language to describe the landscape to the old. But let me try an example: the answer given by Sir Edmund Hillary to the question: Why climb the mountain? “Because it's there,” he said.

To the rural African mind, this is an explanation of why one would not climb the mountain. It's... well, there. Just there. Why interfere? Nothing to be done about it, or with it. Hillary's further explanation - that nobody else had climbed it - would stand as a second reason for passivity.

Christianity, post-Reformation and post-Luther, with its teaching of a direct, personal, two-way link between the individual and God, unmediated by the collective, and unsubordinate to any other human being, smashes straight through the philosphical/spiritual framework I've just described. It offers something to hold on to to those anxious to cast off a crushing tribal groupthink. That is why and how it liberates.

Those who want Africa to walk tall amid 21st-century global competition must not kid themselves that providing the material means or even the knowhow that accompanies what we call development will make the change. A whole belief system must first be supplanted.

And I'm afraid it has to be supplanted by another. Removing Christian evangelism from the African equation may leave the continent at the mercy of a malign fusion of Nike, the witch doctor, the mobile phone and the machete.

It does matter WHAT you believe.

As Mr. Parris observed, there is a difference he could not put his finger on in those who profess to be Christians and those who do not. The Bible says, "...the natural man cannot understand the the things of God because they are spiritually discerned"...

Glenda, Leicester, USA

All people who truly come to God is not through the faith of another's teaching - but through personal revelation and realization not with the mind; but with the heart. Continue to seek and search and you will find. The author of Ben Hur found his own faith in trying to deny it.

Pat, Fayette, USA

No. It is a resource war. Ethnicity is being used as a pretext to access and control Congo’s natural resources. Former Chief of the UNHCR famously warned in an interview he gave to the Financial Times of London, that “we must not forget that the international community has systematically looted the Congo.”

john, cambs,

So many cultures have been whitewashed by evangelical religion. Spiritual values and aid work are wonderful but not enforcing an entire religion. Belief is such a personal matter. Indigenous culture and beliefs should be respected deeply.

Kiera, Sydney, Australia

Kudos Mr. Parris for your humble honesty in observing the change that Christ brings. Reading your "explanation" puts me in mind of a passage from "Peralandra" a fiction book by the late, brilliant Christian appologist C.S. Lewis. I pray that soon both feet will find their way to the one true camp!

Tina McEown, PV, Arizona, USA

Thank you Mr. Parris for restoring my faith in secular journalism. I am an American and I had begun to believe that their were no honest journalist left in the world. It was refreshing and inspiring to read an article written by one who was able to lay aside his bias for the sake of the story.

Chuck Lightfoot, Houston, USA

A big thanks from a missionary in Africa. I like your insights and honest look on the whole "God-thing"...We as christians are no saints, but feel humble when somebody from the outside sees something different in is. As you expressed: different, looking straight in the eyes...My dream for mali

Ewien van Bergeijk - Kwant, Koutiala, Mali

Your post made me cry. I'm humbled by your sincere evaluation of what you have witness. I'm an ex prostitute, I saw the effect in others like me changing by the teachings in the Holy Bible. The spirit of God cannot be seen like the wind, but we see the effect right. I pray that you see more.

Sister Jessie, Los Angeles, California

I am African - despite being of European origins way back when and found your article balanced, insightful and had to smile a quiet smile...cos i am also a believer that all will change my continent is when we see God changing our hearts....thank you for making this news, and putting this out there!

Alexa, Johannesburg,

Wow! Really enjoyed your perspective. Thanks for your honesty and insight. As a Christian, I only wish we could consistently extend the respect you just demonstrated. Sorry that the belligerent minority voice too often represents our faith. Thanks for seeing through that.

Scott Tanklsey, Atlanta, USA

Mr. Parris,

I am so thankful for your insights and your courageous honesty. I fully agree with your assessment of the situation.

I have only one question - based on your observations, what keeps you from developing a personal relationship with God through Jesus as well? I would love to know.

sean, Athens, USA

I work for a foundation that funds grants into India and Africa...
I have seen the poorest areas in the World. Happiness is based by what Happens to you in life. Joy comes from the Lord and can exist even in the worst of conditions. The Lord offers an eternal Hope as well. Athiesim can't do that.

Sean, FortLauderdale, USA

As a young man in Tanzania establishing a farmers' training centre I was struck by the difference between the Christians and folk untouched by the gospel - these later had a darkness about them. They got medicine from witchdoctors and only came to us for help when the patient was on death's door.

Ken Moore, Christchurch, New Zealand

Thanks for noticing the incredible difference God makes in peoples lives. Most people don't have the humility to admit they can see this difference. Less have the humility to even ask God if he is there

Robyn Robertson, Gold Coast, Australia

In answer to Graham Knight, if the so-called Christians in Ghana believe in witches, demons etc., then they are not Christians because a true Christian follows Christ alone. Education does not make anyone a better person look at the Nazis and the Communists. Their leaders were all well educated.

Robert Gilliland, Gold Coast, Australia

Hi
I am a human geog and film student at Aberystwyth University. I have only read your article recently but have decided to use it as the base of my dissertation project. I will be going to South Africa with the Soul Survivor church, serving with 400 others and filming a documentary.
Thanks : )

Ben Scott, Aberystwyth, Wales

Africans already had a God (well, several Gods) before the white missionaries arrived with their blood-thirsty deity, Jehova, and their backwards, bigoted, and un-scientific beliefs.

----, ass, usa

This is a testament to the fact that it is only in the province of bigotry and dogmatism that an idea or philosophy can lay claims to being absolutely exclusive of others.The atheist and the christian are both men of faith. One believes in a presence and the other in the absence of this presence.

Emmanuel Franklyne Ogbunwezeh, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Wow, it's great that someone has the courage to speak what he really thinks&believes&what he thinks is amazing.. I feel that the writer wrote from his heart&I'm proud of him! There are so many writers who fear to use religious words or they don't think so deeply how our values affect in everything.

Tiina Kajala, Turku, Finland

Christianity offers more than just "something to hold on to" - it offers a new life:

"...how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God."
The Bible, Hebrews 9:14

Andy, Grand Junction, USA

I think this is a very courageous article, because Parris says what he thinks - despite his own atheism; despite the fact that Christians will react with (over-)enthusiasm; and despite possible accusations of neocolonialism or ethnocentrism. I'm prompted to reflect on what being a Christian means.

Darrell Tan, Singapore,

Praise GOD for this article! Thanks Mr. Parris. I do pray that you personally can experience GOD someday not just because of your observation or thought. So, you can write about the greatest works of God and make a difference through it. As you said, "Faith does more..." God bless you.

Jhon Purba, Medan, Indonesia

I think this is profound!

I had always believed passionately that christianity is mattter of Spirit,Soul And Body.
Christainity must reflect in someone's spirit ,profit their soul and affect tangibly their lifestyle!
That's true and genuine christianity at work

adeoye, Lagos, Nigeria

As our Pastor stated when quoting this article - "don't think you are long for the Atheist world". You now have a glimpse of His love and far reaches.

Bless you,
Barbara

Barbara, Winter Park, USA

I spent 2 weeks in Kenya in 2008 visiting a mission founded and led by Kenyans. They do so much with so few resources. Your article rang true. Having been a Christian for over 50 years (now in my 70s) I was encouraged by your article and your honesty about the impact of the Christian faith.

Alan Pugmire, Manchester, United Kingdom

I think you may have a point, with regard to many communities, particularly those which are inevitably having to deal with urbanisation…But overturning ‘group-think’ in favour of individualism is not of itself a noble cause, certainly in many tribes there is much to admire– eg the Aka Pygmies.

will, Worcester, UK

Dear Matthew, Is it not incredible; virtually all 400+ responses you have received are encouraging. Jesus loves (your) honesty. He appreciates your scepticism and he has now shown you firsthand evidence of his reality. God willing this mico-level christian witness will be the turning point for you

Armin Gruening, Camden, Australia

The longer I live in Africa, the more convinced I am that religion is holding the people back. In Ghana, Christians are no more moral than anyone else and they still believe in evil spirits, witches and now the devil. What they need is a proper education system not more superstition.

Graham Knight, Accra, Ghana

I TOTALLY cant wait to E mail this to a few people. Praise God! God is preparing His people and working in the hearts of non believers. I pray that the skeptics and the hard hearted that read this choose to trust Jesus. Now. Amen

Marie, Sugar Grove, IL, U.S.A.

I would argue that the Developed world's supply of arms and drugsm and backhanded extraction of natural resources has more to do with Africa's underdevelopment than the mentality of the average citizen. Corruption is facilitated by the West to assure the continuation of our own standard of living.

A Epp, Vancouver, Canada

If God really exists then you would want to know. Right. If you don't believe then praying to a god you don't believe in will not do anything. Right. Why don't you pray then, as I believe in God and that He will reveal Himself to you, but only if you are truly seeking with the right heart. Try it!

Craig, Perth, Australia

It is obvious that God is at work even in the hearts of those that don't believe. You cannot dismiss the power of His presence, all that say nay speak in ignorance not knowing His true nature. Jesus died on the cross for EVERYONE on this planet, it is our place to accept Him as the Lord of our life.

John, Yuba City, USA

As an American teacher recently returned from teaching English in Tanzania, Africa, I genuinely appreciate this article. There aren't many people who would would be compelled by honesty to publish something when it doesn't mesh with his or her own beliefs. As a missionary, thank you.

Abby, Tyler, USA

TimesOnline doesn’t seem to be too happy with the article’s content. Three of four links in the background box are critical of Christianity. Is it possible to publish an article that looks at Christianity positively w/o linking it to articles that imply errors / misconduct of “Christians”?

Wolfgang Jung, Neunkirchen, Germany

Christianity cannot save Africa. The place is already awash with Christian sects (both mainstream and eccentric), missionaries, firebrand preachers, exorcists, witch-hunters, rioters, self-starving ascetics,
spasming holy-ghosters, the lot. There's no room for any more. But still the chaos stews.

Bruce, London,

Mathew Parris
I've been a Christian a long time and I just have to smile when
I read your article.... I recognize the pattern…. God is doing a work in you. It’s probably too early to welcome you into the family.
But I’ll be praying for you, with a smile on my face

debbie, whitmore lake MI, USA

Mathew Parris is right in saying that Africa needs missionaries.

He fails to see that they have gone in response to Gods love and to take the Gospel, ( which Parris denies) to those who are heading for a lost eternity without it.

Our prayer should be that he might come to own this God Himself

Arthur Ferdinando, Derby, UK

History and my own63 year life experience clearly show the LAST thing Africa needs is more western-inspired religion masquerading as Christianity. This has strengthened the shackles of dependency that sees Africans content to wait for jesus to come and return what was stolen in his name. Unlikely!!!

Lee Driscoll, Cairo, Egypt

Dear Mr. Parris,

Africa's biggest problem is not the crushing passivity of the people's mindset, but the lack of the Gospel. Africa is not different from other continents. Your analysis clearly proves that "Atheism presupposes Theism - always". Come to Christ!

Jacob de Raadt, WHITE ROCK, B.C., Canada

After reading this article, I now realize that many atheists are the mere result of the inactivity of those that claim to be believers, simply because in doing nothing, the reality of a loving God is not put into a language that people can understand; a helping hand to those that are in need of one.

D A Montes, Winnipeg, Canada

Mr Parris, how wonderful it was to read this article in my local newspaper, "Die Burger" (The Citizen) back home in South Africa. So great to hear of someone who is honest about what he sees in front of him: reality.The living God is moving greatly though among both black and white African cultures.

Servaas Hofmeyr, Stellenbosch, South Africa

And the big question... are you still an atheist...or have you found a way to let the gospel of Jesus Christ work wonders in your life?

Ed, Reston, Virginia, USA

Your views were a subject of preaching in churches, at least for those awk-eyed pastors. It is a message that is a million times true. The so called development will never come to Africa and may be muslim world if Christ is not the centre of the lives of the leaders.

abraham, london, Uk

Thank you for one of the best articles I have ever read on the subject. Some have touted education as a virtual messiah but education without God changing the heart can often increase oppression. You just get educated villains. Christian love and compassion has paved the way for useful education.

Lukas, Perth, Australia

A living relationship with Jesus, and not religion, will ALWAYS bring change in peoples' conduct and relationships. As the Word of God confirms - 2 Corithians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Ruth, Tzaneen, South Africa

Thank you for your honesty and humility, sir. My heart jumped when I read of Malawi, which is also my country of birth. I'm a South African studying in the states in hope of returning to Africa to live and share Jesus Christ and Him crucified, just like here. Jesus is the Hope far beyond this world

Constance-Marie Hugo, Knoxville, USA

VERY insightful, comprehaensively thought out and explained, open minded and encouraging. What could be the reason for this positive effect?!

Catie Raikes, Aberystwyth, Wales

Dear Matthew,
As a retired police commissioner, serving from 1964 -1996; from Rivonia to 94 Inauguration of Madiba; visiting all States in Region; white Afrikaner; UNISA Police science graduate; fully bilingual; impressive article;thought-provoking; i suggest establishing Forum on New Africa;advise

Andre BEUKES, Pretoria, RSA

Your article came at a great time for me. Our daughter, her husband and our two grandchildren just got on a plane to work as missionaries in Tanzania. We miss them so much but it is comforting to know they are making a difference in the lives of Africans.

Jenine, El Cajon, USA

Thanks Matthew, I enjoyed your article.
Many Blessings your way!
Lena, missionary in Africa (from Sweden)

Lena, Livingstone,

Matthew, great article. Totally agree. Was just up in Opuwo, Namibia - Himba country. The mayor there is a missionary. Pieter de Villiers. It's amazing, the positive effect he is having on that city and the transformation taking place. This week he's working on eradicating the Cholera there.

mark gardner, swakopmund, namibia

Matthew, Wow! You are a world traveler and you have had a wonderful experience. Please, just for a little while, let Jesus have a moment of your time. Give him a try, what could it hurt? Good article and thank you for sharing it with us.

Lee, Culver, USA

Matthew-
In your article you said, "In Africa Christianity changes people's hearts. It brings a spiritual transformation. The rebirth is real. The change is good." Please know that Christianity can change peoples hearts anywhere, that the rebirth is real anywhere, and the change is always good.

Cody, New York, New York, USA

Hey Matthew
I agree with what you said in your article - Africans Do Need God. Hear the Wa Ta Too Children's Choir sometime. They know exactly how God is healing Africa - but Matthew - I'm a bit confused. If you see this and know this to be true, why do you still call yourself a confirmed atheist?

Ellen, Owen Sound, ON, Canada

As someone who has spent a great deal of time in Africa and involved in Christian mission projects, I was really struck by this article. It was if someone from the outside was looking in and describing their observations on the social change that can come from the teachings of Jesus.

Keenan, Boulder, USA

Bravo to you for your thoughtful honesty and to the Times for courageously printing your article! My beautiful 13-year-old daughter, a passionate follower of Jesus, told me last night that she thinks her calling is to feed hungry people in Africa. I can't wait to share your thoughts with her.

Leslie Rowell, Beaufort, SC, USA

Atheism, and secularism, as shown by this article, ultimately leave no hope, no care. Why bother helping your fellow man when we're all just a bunch of randomly organized matter so transient in nature so as to be but a footnote in the history of the greater universe?

Micah Burke, Lathrop, CA, USA

Indeed the finale of spiritual evolution is atheism - the ultimate truth !

R V Subramanian, Gurgaon, India

Thank you for this article and for your willingness to present it to an unbelieving world. I hope you come to know the God who loves you so much and wants to give you that same peace and freedom.

Fleur Holyland, Brisbane, Australia

Matthew, Wonderfully insightful and candid article. I must be a little less automatically dismissive of atheists in the future. In fact, I'll go so far as to say the world needs more atheists like you. And CS Lewis. Keep thinking, you'll get there without losing a bit of intellectual integrity.

Ed Preston, Chelmsford, USA

Hi Matthew What you just described is the "Fruit of the Spirit" See Galatians 5:22. When you are finished there read Romans 10:9-10. You see the fruit yourself.......now go for it!!

Dirk de Bruin, Auckland, New Zealand

Great article. Unbiased. Loved it. Yes, I'm a Christ follower too but I really appreciate someone who does not follow Christ but can see the tangiable change true Christianity does. Great article.

Emma-Jane Holden, Melbourne, Australia

Hey Matthew,
Thank you for having the boldness to take an unpopular stance on this topic. Christ changed my life in 2002, and the words you eloquently used totally reminded me of the change in my life. My wife and I hope to move to Africa as missionaries, and I wish everyone understood what you do

Hunter Benson, Boston, USA

Dear Matthew,
The good news is; that God may be using you to work out his purposes - the bad news for "born again" atheists is that His Grace is irresistable! Ever been to Damascus? Every Christian blogger should be praying for this outcome. Luke 15 Parable of the Lost Sheep
Hamish Alexander

Hamish Alexander, Edinburgh, Scotland

My dear Mathew, you have understood and managed to put into words what many people struggle with. What you need to see is that not only Africa needs Christ, EVERYBODY needs him! He is Love that sets us free.

Stephanie, Bad Windsheim,

I loved reading your article. It inspired me and moved me. I have friends who are missionaries in Africa and it is great to know that even an atheist can see the difference that God is making. He has made the difference in my life as well. Jesus is really the only thing I like about myself.

Kelley Edge Davis, Knoxville, TN, USA

Mr. Parris:

Next time you board a long flight, why not take along something by CS Lewis, like 'Mere Christianity.' Many posters here, especially those ashamed of the historic record, may likewise find it refreshing, even invigorating, perhaps captivating. At a minimum CSL will make you think hard

Chris Johnson, Annandale, Virginia, USA

Quote from J. Vincent, Paris, France: "A majority of Africa's problems today stem from colonization & the spread of Christianity"

Not TRUE Christianity. Those who spread colonization and their form of Christianism knew little or nothing of the real Christ; only the religious traditions of their day

P Conrey, Memphis, USA

Thanks matthew for sharing your experiece and view without being baised. Not only africa but you and we all need christ Jesus. He changed my life too drastically. my faith tells me to remian honest and loving towards my fellow being.

Praveen Raju, Nasik, India

It's great to read yoour article and I am reminded again that faith without works is dead, the bible said. As a Christian i do believe that Africa needs God and for that matter we all need God! Thank you for being honest about your feelings for obviously what you saw is real!!

Peter Wong, perth, Western Australia

Removing Christianity from Sub-Saharan African would leave a spiritual vacuum that is likely to be filled with the nearest dominant religious alternative - Islam. Christianity has the greatest freedoms on offer and thus concur with the author.

Nigel Harding, Kampala, Uganda

Thank you for your excellent piece, and the objectivity that it reflects. Are you familiar with the writings of Lamin Sanneh? A native of Gambia, he is the D. Willis James Professor of Missions & World Christianity at Yale Divinity School. You'd enjoy his book, "Whose Religion is Christianity?"

Dick McClain, Norcross, USA

well, amazing article but how can you still remain an atheist after all u have said....Praise God for what you saw there...

Egli Tollaku, tirana, Albania

I have just read that a nurse in England faces the sack for offering to pray for a patient. the elderly lady refused the offer then told another nurse and this is the consequence. Matthew tells us his remedy for Africa. What remedy for England?

Colin Backhouse, Midsomer Norton, UK

I am often embarrassed to say i am a christian as i do not want to to sanction the bad things done in the name of Christ, nor belittle the work done by non-Christians living good (?godly) lives Often our beliefs just dont marry with what we see in the world -good on you for being honest about it

merran Cooper, Mona vale, Australia

Incredibly honest appraisal. Very encouraging that someone like you can actually see the difference God is making through His people (Christians) and is honest enough to testify even though you say you are an atheist.

Joyce Lee, Kilpedder, Ireland

Well done, Matthew for another insightful and balanced article. Would you consider some investigation into the impact that conversion to evangelical Christianity makes to individuals and society back at home? You may come to the conclusion that the UK truly needs God as well.

Gary Aitcheson, Bangor, Northern Ireland

Very well done. I would like to add though that your quote is actually from George Leigh Mallory, not Sir Edmund Hillary.

John Light, Columbia, SC,

Thank you for your candid thoughts. As a worker for a Christian charity working in South Asia I appreciated your observations.

Michael Ardern, Auckland, New Zealand

Thank you Matthew for your encouraging and illuminating insight. Your honesty and consequent self imposed vulnerability in the face of inevitable criticism is refreshing. We are just on the brink of returning to Africa and find encouragement from an unexpected but welcome source.

John Pugh, Shrewsbury, England

Fascinating! I'm a South African, white, christian. I find your observations very encouraging. I'm also thrilled to hear some "proof" that a relationship with God/Jesus really makes a difference - something I've know myself for a while!

Angela, Belfast, Canada

Your observations are interesting, mostly in light of Paul's argument in I Corinthians 15 that if Christ is not risen, Christians are to be pitied because their faith is in vain. You don't think Christ is God, obviously, but think belief in him is good? If I were an atheist, I would pity them.

Keith Goad, Louisville,

Does this apply to the inhabitants of British slums? "not poor... by the standards of human history" but trapped in "a special wretchedness" T. Dalrymple

John D, Michigan, USA

Congratulations. The link to your story was sent to me by a friend who was (as I am) inspired by your candid observations. Thank you

Keith Wagener, Auckland, New Zealand

Mr. Parris,

I enjoyed your article. Might I suggest you read a book by Paul Strobble called "The Case for Chirst". He too was an atheist & journalist in Chicago & set out to disprove Christ. I think you might find it interesting.

Warm regards,

Kim Quinney, Beeville, USA

Thank you for sharing not only your heart but the knowledge you observed in your travels in Africa. The people are beautiful ,It is up to us to not only carry the Good News but also use what we have been given to honour them with dai;ly provisions as well. Christ is the Passion, based in love.

Donna barfoot, Chesley, Canada

Mr. Parris,

As a missionary in Europe that supports ministries you describe in your article I want to thank you for your insight and vulnerability. Your article has been an awe inspiring encouragement to us here. I don't know if that was your intention, but it was the result. Thanks, again.

Luke Welbourn, Kandern, Germany

Matthew:
I too applaud your honesty, and my respect for you as a journalist has risen immeasureably. Now I guess you have to follow your own logic to its logical conclusion...

With warm regards
John Duncan
Area Director, Youth For Christ Europe, Middle-East & North Africa

John Duncan, Ballynahinch, Northern Ireland

Thank you for your just insights/ reflections. Monetary aids for many causes is often not the most appropriate/ active change/ improvement agent. Teachings of Christ, facilitated by our heavenly Father, are watertight for those who seek such light. Much love for secularity exists in Christian wisdom

Joanne Bergenwall Aw, Stockholm, Sweden

Mr. Parris

Thank you for your candor and humility. I have rarely if ever seen such journalistic vulnerability and integrity. I am moved.

Ben Bishop, Seattle, United States

Excellent article. I suspect the atheist may at some point see the real reason behind the light in the eyes of those people - a relationship with Christ.

jimmy, Snellville, GA USA

There are many who choose to call themselves atheists, while believing passionately in equitable justice, believing that those in power should serve the people, not their own interests. And many other things which derive directly from Jesus' teaching.
Check it out.

Philip Crawford, Panania, NSW, Australia

Interesting that the related articles make up for this one. What I find surprising is the mental ring fencing related to actual consideration of God. If Bono were being so effective on a mass scale, wouldn't you be motivated to be directly involved in the movement or to understand the cause?

Chris Shelton, Washington, DC, USA

Anecdotal. He found faith 'liberated and relaxed' the people of a village. In hundreds of years, faith has massacred millions of Africans. It is misleading to ignore the damage & disruption mssnrys contributed. A majority of Africa's problems today stem from colonization & the spread of Christianity

J. Vincent, Paris, France

Bravo! Don't know you and, until this piece, had not heard of you. The honesty, insight and integrity of your writing is refreshing beyond words. Thanks for sharing it.

Pete Mullins, Newnan, GA, USA

It is wonderful to see an open-eyed and realistic view of what is actually happening in Africa. (I lived in Tanzania for 17 years - now been back in Australia for 17) . It is also the same for refugees from Africa now in Australia, as well

Gillian Evans, Sydney, Australia

Having lived Liberia, Cameroon, and Ethiopia, I observed the same. Sincere people of USA or Africa who seek and find a relationship with Jesus have a change in outlook and purpose. The Holy Spirit, who comes within them, gives them ability beyond their own to live right and be free from fear.

Shirley Keyser, Springfield, OR

Wow. Now you know. A spiritual path heals the soul. Ignore what the vast majority of people have believed in, in one way or another, since Adam was a lad, at your peril. You dont have to follow a religion.Just accept the higher power concept if you want. Open up your heart,now.

ron, Sale, Manchester, England

I have read Dawkins and found most of his arguments to be based on unsound logic. I have been an athiest most of my life mostly due to my being unable to accept organised religion.I have accepted a "Higher Power" into my life and communicate with it directly.I am unsure what it is.I am now at peace.

ron, Sale, Manchester, England

Wow! Great article. I my self am Christian and will be traveling to Ghana, Africa in a month.. I will be there as a missionary.. I'm encouraged to go serve and help Africa.

Rene Garzona, south gate, United States

Well said! I think this is true in Latin America too.

Ariel Ruiz, Syracuse, NY, USA

Well said Matthew.
Thank you for having the honesty and integrity to accept reality, even when it goes against all that you at the moment believe.

Peter McCabe, Ingleton , UK

This is an awesome (literaly, awe-some) example of how Christianity is not just a crutch for the simple-minded or weak person. There are many, many strong Africans out there who are definitly not simple-minded, and they can be such a different person than those bound by "evil" spirits.

Skye Bonati, Foley, MN, USA

Matthew, this has generated some lovely comments. For good ness sake just bite the bullet and get on with it. It will hardly hurt at all.

Daryl Martin, Bognor , UK

Well said! I too am an ex Malawian, having just returned from a two month visit and also see that a culture void of the loving living God of the Christians, imparting love thy neighbor as thyself, is just bound to disrespect, cheat, lie to, each other. Money,and aid are not the answer. John:16 Matt!

Raymond Smith, Greenwood, Indiana

I wish Matthew would read the book of Matthew in the Bible, with an open mind and an open heart. It amazes me how close people can come to the truth and still not accept it. All you have to do is take a step of faith once. It wont hurt you at all to give Jesus a try. Romans 10:8-10 tells you how to.

David Paul Christensen, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa

If you say only one prayer your whole life, this is the one to say: "Lord, if you are real, reveal yourself to me." I have no doubt the response will be quick and compelling. God wants so badly to be in personal relationship with us, but we have to seek it first. There's the rub.

Angela, Scottsdale, USA

Wonderful essay. Isnt it ironic though that the very thing acknowledged, Christian individualism, is what is and has been rejected by the so called "Christian" west. Only Christian individualism convinces a person of his cosmic significance and person. It teaches that he is his own hero.

Gus Gianello, oshawa, canada

I find it refreshing that someone objective would acknowledge and speak out about the challenges facing Africans. The mindset of Africans needs to change from one of submission to one where asking questions is the norm and not just accepting their fate and politics at it's face value. Good writing

Flip du Plessis, Cape Town, South Africa

Excellent article. Even the cynical Paul Theroux in his travelogue re: western Africa, (taught in Malawi decades previous), slams NGOs yet applauds an elderly missionary couple as 'getting it' . Also read, 'Serving With Your Eyes Wide Open'. See International Needs Network as NGO with depth.

Akke Stretch, Hanover, Canada

Mr. Parris,

You are obviously an educated and intelligent person. Tell us, please, how you came to the conclusion that there is no God.

Stu Sorenson, Fresno,

A breath of fresh air. Not b/c you recognize beauty in my Christian heritage or affirm the worth of my mission work. I thank you simply as a reader. Fine journalism here: brutally & touchingly honest. It is an honor to share the planet with you. Thank you for sharing your heart & thoughts as well.

Chris, Bozeman, USA

So many essentially ungenerous (dare I say unChristian) sentimental patronising comments. The article is commendable. It poses many challenging questions. It is very personal. Surely, it is an invitation to inquiry and concern for others, and not to self-satisfied smug proseltysing.

Josh Kutchinsky, London,

really a good article. honest one. the greatest strength of christianity is in helping humanity

prem pasanha, mangalore, india

I apologize for the overzealous prosyletizers commenting here who rush past the beautiful truth of this article to attack your choice of atheism. Thank you for sharing your heart without guarding against the gritty difficulties, inconsistencies, and strange reality that makes life what it is.

John, Dallas, USA

Thank you for your honesty, even when it flies in the face of your worldview. As one who has not had opportunity to witness the effects Christianity has had in Africa, I deeply appreciated your insight and observations on the matter.

Chris Ulriksen, Tofield, AB, Canada

Just one thought. An atheist is able to make the statement 'there is no God'. To make a statement like that one has to have a complete understanding of the universe. You are in fact an agnostic, one who says "I don't know if there is a God but I choose to believe there isn't". What if you're wrong?

David, Barrie, Canada

Good article Mr. Parris! I think you are indeed correct in your assertion that people must be changed from the heart out. After all, if you really believe that there is no God and that we are all just a product of "survival of the fittest" then helping poor people in Africa is counter productive!!

Stuart, Little Rock, USA

Thanks,... so maybe its all worthwhile...
A malawian raised MK.

Ann W, Germany,

I have observed a theme among so many of my counter-parts in Africa ... we are followers of Christ Jesus ... as well as leaders of our generation. Like Queen Esther, there is a calling 'for such a time as this' that motivates and moves us at a spiritual level. Blessings to you for being so candid.

Steadman Harrison, Greensboro, NC, USA

What is it about God that makes you so willing to embrace the good it brings but also able to reject the God side to it? Surely you cannot accept one without the other. Now i dont say this as an acusation, but as an abservation of atheistic views. Is it pride that keeps you from God?

Stuart Sampson, Adelaide,

Thank you for this honest and observant article! I find it interesting to hear what those outside the Christian faith really think. I appreciate the acknowledgement of both the work done by Christian missionaries and reason behind it. May you also experience Christ's transforming power!

R S, Surrey, Canada

I have seen similar situations in Asia. Secular NGO s in discussion in 5 star hotels because the situation is "difficult" whilst christian missions are making a difference whatever the circumstances working alongside locals in need. Not perfect but at least trying to make a difference.

steve norman, Mi;lton keynes , Buckinghamshire

... . For a very few Christians the change is immediate and radical, but for most it is a gradual, lifelong process of transformation, often with many setbacks. Unfortunately, atheists in general, don’t believe in the Holy Spirit and dismiss it outright as another delusion of weak minds, ...

Filipe de Melo, London, UK

... because I believe that this is one of the biggest sources of difficulty atheists have with Christianity. Christians know that they become “changed” when they allow the Holy Spirit to work in them, and through them. For them it’s a real transformative experience. It changes them...

Filipe de Melo, London, UK

... and therein lies the rub. The Holy Spirit is only effective when it is met by an accepting faith. To experience it you first have to believe in it. Catch 22, isn’t it? Nevertheless, it’s interesting that Matthew noticed “it” even though he’s not able to understand it.

Filipe de Melo, London, UK

Christ is always the answer!

kim thwaites, High Wycombe, england

A definition of God(in a positive view, contrary to Mario Tosto's description):"Neither male nor female, neither good nor bad, neither light nor darkness but containing all there is and situate everywhere: the universal stream of pure life giving consciousness flowing through all is God."
It is LOVE

Timmy Tokars, Big Rock, United States

In the end, the fact that some people behave better under some delusions than others, is no proof for the existence of an autonomous divine agent. Ideals are important an practical, but basing them on fiction is ultimately destructive.

Mario Tosto, San Francisco, CA, USA

Well tought-out. Many Africans living in Africa are contempt with the poor standard of life, a reason for this is religion. Some are not hurting one another to be rich because they believe the world after would be better. But, this idea has made many theist Africans to be lazy waiting for heaven.

Abu-Bakarr Jalloh, Freetown, Sierra Leone

Mr Paris, Your observation is correct but the remedy is not simple, as you think. Many attest that Africa is one of the places where people respond to God in large numbers not largely because of missionries. You need more than a tour to give suggestions. Is stopping aid-money good for eithists?

Timothy Nyasulu, Deerfield, USA

There's some scripture . I'll para-phrase - Love God with everything you have and love your neighbour as yourself which means you'll always d o your best for him /her. Radicle or what? It's the Christian message.

Hugh Driskell, Nottingham, United Kingdom

Amazingly insightful, well written, and well thought out. I'd say you're on the right track. As one who is interested in doing mission work in Africa, this was very encouraging! Thank you for sharing.

Lora Nardi, San Jose, USA

Well said. It takes wisdom to see that what the mind cannot understand... the heart knows.

Greg, Vancouver,

Dear Mathew,
your religion is showing.
"Go to Africa", "Live in Africa", "Travel in Africa"? Why don't you 'Listen to Africa'.
Ngugi wa Thiong'o in his vast, funny novel, 'The Wizard of the Crow' explains Africa well. Chritianity here, is absorbed mystified and becomes part of the problem.

Robert van Bakel, Anyang, China

To be honest, you will find the same result if you go to Asia. Or Europe. Or anywhere else. Christian thinking affects the way people live, think and behave. Even more - look at European history. As a Scandinavian I know my history and know what christian thinking did to the viking mentality.

Ole Petter Erlandsen, Oslo, Norway

In Ethiopia we are struck by how a traditional African worldview stifles development in spite of massive injections of Western money and people resources. Christianity affects development because it changes worldview and gives security and hope through a God who loves us and suffered to save us.

Ronald L. Klaus, Goshen, IN, USA

I spent many years among the rural poor in the Horn of Africa, and travelled to other parts of Africa. I can say that all the NGO money, the highly qualified personnel and their seemingly good intentions have not helped Africa. Nothing on the ground shows what years of programme work has achieved.

Sospeter Gatobu, Nairobi, Kenya

Africa is a popular missionary destiniation.

It hasn't helped. The ANC says it will "Rule till Jesus comes" the LRA murders nuns in the name of God, even the Rwandan genocide.

If Africa is to pull itself out of the muck, skepticism, not faith is how it will do it. Faith just breeds dictators.

Bruce Gorton, Johannesburg, South Africa

Mr Parris, I think it is safe to say that there are many people praying for you as a result of this article. You have made an impact on those in missions and we thank you for seeing what is so difficult to explain to the rest of the world, Thank you for seeing the love for those in need.

Liesl, Mpumalanga, South Africa

A note of caution for those who invariably equate religion with fundamentalism; It is possible to be a fundamental atheist. Well done Matthew Parris for not selecting to write only about facts that fit your beliefs. Other atheists have made a fortune doing just that and pandering to the masses!!

Rose Krzyz, London, England

Some aspects of 'organized religion' have been responsibile for terrible attrocities in the the past. But true Christianity is not an organization but a PERSON---the Lord Jesus Christ and when He is received by an act of repentance and faith, He does change lives in the whole world.

Ron Bergstrom, Niagara Falls , Canada

I can't say it any better than Ravi Zacharias: Atheism has no answers for life's most important questions. See:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_EhbEnC7X8&feature=related

Jim Stair, Clackamas, USA

Christianity doesnt always help though. In Cape Town's Polsmoor Prisoner, inmates and ex cons find Jesus and honestly believe they will go to Heaven, and yet they openly confess to regularly commiting (at least) 2nd degree murder. If Christianity has to be used to develop Africa, then it has to be..

Siphe, Cape Town, South Africa

Praise the Lord for the Dutch Reformed Church, Robert Mugabe, the Rwandan nuns and all the brothers and sisters fighting against the heathen in Nigeria!

Christianity has also apparently inspired a number of converts to offer us access to the riches of deposed dictators judging by some emails!

Aiken, Dumbarton, Scotland

... Maybe not smoothly, but it nevertheless slipped.. They were a couple of hiccups along the way. Ie the Inquisition.. All the more need for an emphasis on the modest and private influence of something like the Anglican Church.

Siphe, Cape Town, South Africa

Africa, then it has to be through modest practices. Not by evangelicals who often forget what Christ is. Mr. Parris otherwise has a good point. Just look at the history of Europe. It went through a long period of Christianity as initial development then slipped smoothly into the light of secularity.

Siphe, Cape Town, South Africa

As a missionary in Malawi, I appreciate many good things in the African traditional religion but there are also many pathological beliefs that hinder development and promote human rights abuses. Most of my work is addressing this beliefsystem that keeps people bound in fear and mutual suspicion.

Dr. Erwin van der Meer, Blantyre, Malawi

Excellent Matthew, not the usual bigoted atheist rubbish.
Re:comments of others.
Education in itself is a good thing, but it has never stopped greed, hatred etc. Anybody can masquerade as a christian and commit atrocities.
Stop making excuses and search your heart. No man is promised tomorrow.

Paul, Solihull, UK

Excellent article, but where will you go from here? You see the unmistakable declaration of His glory through simple human beings...a kingdom not of this world. Don't let it end here as did King Aggripa. "Surely you almost persuade me to become a Christian." (Acts 26:28)

Joe Walker, New York, USA

My grandfather, an agriculturist in S. Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) in the 1930's, observed the same thing. You could always tell a new convert to Christianity, he said, especially among the women -- they stood up tall. The next thing he observed was a new hunger for education. Now that's development!

Peggy O'Ban, Edmonds, USA

May I suggest a good book for the skeptic:
The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism
by Timothy Keller

An excellent book for intellectually-honest skeptics.

Chris F, Souderton, USA

To the gentleman in Belfast...To say that missionaries give aid out of a selfish motive is ridiculuos. This is not a sales deal...food for converts. Their's is a life of humble helping because God has saved them from a futile life of accumulating goods. There are those that give selflessly!

Anthony Greco, York, USA

Insightful! An interesting comparison to Parris' observations would be the book Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton. Set during Apartheid South Africa, it also points to Christianity as Africa's (and mankind's in general) salvation from a sad and torn world. My prayers are with Parris...

Melody C, Grove City,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful comments. My family and I (wife and four children) are pursuing full-time missions service in Uganda (we hope to be living there in less than a year). Why are we going? To bring the hope of Christ and the love of God to beautiful children and families.

Adam Greer, Greensboro, USA

This is such a ridiculous argument. Missionaries spread aid throughout Africa while they are spreading the word of God. The main factor here is while they are spreading the word of God. Aid is not given unselfishly; it is given to increase followers.

Gerard Taylor, Belfast, Northern Ireland

True, many people are still children in wanting or expecting reassurance one way or the other for our existential predicament. If make-belief is important to peace of mind & a civilised society then I am all for it, but under protest. More noble is to accept that we are all accidents.

ian cheese, london, uk

Very interesting and honest article. I wonder if Mr Parry will be willing to come on an Alpha course starting in 2 weeks at HTB, Knightsbridge to explore some more about God. He will be more than welcome to share his views and no one will judge his own beliefs. Will you take me up on my offer?

Viv, London, UK

Thank you Mr.Parris. Some of my favorite folks are atheists who are truly willing to think it out, argue it out, talk about it and really engage. That being said, I have to agree with the commenters who seem to feel that the Holy Spirit has you in his net. I am praying!

Eve Nash, Birmingham, AL, US

Thank you Mr. Parris! I serve Indigenous Pastors in Zambia. Your observations are so true and very well stated. True Christianity changes the heart and brings real hope. It sets the captives free. NGO's are great but without a change of heart the NGO's become another pit of corruption.

Jeff Hawkins, Nashville, TN, USA

You have to be kidding this is a simplistic take on the "goodness" of Christian mission work.

For all the "good" they do there is no way they will change a 'tribal' mindset considering Christianity itself is a tribalistic religion.

edge.org/3rd_culture/paul07/paul07_index.html

Anoop, United States of Amnesia,

you state, "...Christianity, post-Reformation and post-Luther, with its teaching of a direct, personal, two-way link between the individual and God, unmediated by the collective, and unsubordinate to any other human being..." may i suggest that you "get" this better than most Chrisians? thanks.

rich, cary, usa

Awesome Column! I appreciate the truth and honesty of your perspective. Thank you.

Sam, Calgary, Canada

May the Sovereign God continue to minister by His Spirit in and through you! Continue to speak the truth! God will ALWAYS be glorified!!!

Dee Nyamieh Walker, Colorado Springs, US

A rare insight into the essence of "development". I share your observations in Africa as well as Asia and Latin America. Perhaps the God whose existance you question is speaking gently to you through those living testimonies. After all - how else could that God "speak" to you?

Scott, Colorado Springs, USA

Thank you for your honesty. I spent the 1st half on my 60 yrs as a skeptic and the last 20 as a Christian. I have seen the amazing effect of the Gospel preached and practiced in Africa and in the Amazon. On return visits we see people transformed from poor in health & spirit into joy and health.

J.E.Ashbee, Mobile<AL, USA

Praise God. You are right! Mr. Parris I think you should wright another article or even a book titled: As an atheist, I truly believe the WHOLE WORLD needs God.
Thanks for your your honest assessment about the African continent. I'm an African who has seen God change & transform lives everywhere

Andrew Onguka, Kisumu, Kenya

Respect to Mr Parris. It takes a strong man, secure in his own skin, to acknowledge the benefits of an opposing belief regardless of whether or not he alters his own.
A secure atheist or genuine agnostic would not need to feel threatened by your objective observations.

Jan, Wallasey, UK

Excellent article in that despite your personal views, the truth is recognized and acknowledged for BEING the truth. It can be squashed, rejected, quieted, but it is still what it is- the truth. Thank you for your honesty!

Michelle, Maple Shade, USA

Hi man, right on, I was a missionary in Cameroon

Ned Collingridge, Lynnwood WASh, USA

Thanks for sharing your heart and honesty Mr. Parris. Know that I'll be praying for you to know Jesus too.

God bless you!

Eugene, Woodbridge, Canada

Why does Mr Parris have to almost apologize for the truth, I wonder? Maybe because being an a-theist has become synonymous with being an anti-theist; thanks Richard Dawkins and his ilk for that.

Frederick Davies, Oxford, UK

I live in America, and i get a newsletter by e-mail and it was
telling this story.... I can't imagne life without my faith. This world that we trust in is falling apart. It says in the Bible that some people will think it is foolishness to believe. Thank you so much for your story. Bless you!!

judy, Tyler, USA

Matthew Parris's insights totally accord with my own experiences of travel and staying in the more remote villages of the Niger Delta in Nigeria. I think you have to have been there - not just in tourist hotels either - to appreciate this.

Noel Garner, Cambridge, UK

Its simple. What is needed there and here is a common value system to be taught . For some reason unless that value system is backed by an imaginary super being it cant be supported as a solution to an obvious problem. A set of global values for the 21st century without god would be a start.

Michael, London, UK

Matthew Parris has noted that African traditions can crush individuality, while Christianity can work as a force for hope and individual endeavour; individuals working and trusting each other; taking risks? grasping opportunities ? learning from mistakes ? If so, then we need it too !

Joshua Vanneck, Cambridge, England

God Bless you Matthew :)

Preston, Ft Lauderdale, FL, USA

So if problems in Africa can be solved by Christianity then I wonder what went wrong in Brazil, Argentina and Phillipines. And the church silence in the west during Nazi period. I have read many Christian apologists but this article beats all other in its blinkered christian viewpoint.

Ruben Turner, London, UK

i think the author is expressing some honest feelings about his observations, even though they conflict with his worldview. very courageous. and, i think that anywhere that genuine christianity is observed, an honest person would reach the same conclusions. my church goes to kenya 2x per year.

kevin pieper, tomball, texas, usa

Africa needs Christ. America needs Christ. The world needs Christ. And they will see Him only by His own being a conduit of His grace and love, not just a preacher of His Truths.

S. Andrews, Madison, MS, USA

Interesting how majority of christians ignore M.P's statement that his observation in Africa " has embarrassed my growing belief that there is no God"
He merely acknowledges that most find comfort in the support of someone to share all their burden.., much as an invisible friend does for a child.

P D Cunningham, Cassatt, USA

WOW. This is amazing. I so, in my 20 years of experience in Africa, agree. There is something that is freeing about the teachings of Christianty for those who truly understand Africa. Romantic vs Realistic views of tribal culture. Thank you for this article.

Lilla Marie, Brier, USA

I am very pleased to see this article. I am an American Christian mother of 10. I run a small home business mainly for the purpose of sending money into Malawi to be used by a local pastor for both widow/orphan aid and evangelism. Someday when my children are a little older, I hope to visit.

Virginia, Orlando, USA

preach it atheist brotha!

Virginia, Sault Ste. Marie, Canada

Pete, Urumqi, China said: " i wish some of the American evangelists currently infesting China's NW Xinjiang Province would go to Africa, where they might be able to do some good."

so they're bad for china but good for africa! i wonder how you worked that one out.

ngum, manchester, uk

This article is a must-read for any atheist. There should be no paradox here...

Chris A, Twickenham, Middx

Phillip Thomson, I feel for you. You've been meeting the wrong Christians. The clever ones know that it could all be superstitious nonsense. They just believe that it isn't.

Clare, Manchester,

Question for Matthew Parris: If Africa needs God, what about Britain? Judging from the recent Daily Mail article 'Boozy Britain's bloody New Year' (2/1/09)
which vividly displays now all too common scenes of public binge drinking and violence, it would seem that Britain needs God too.

Josef Serf, Brooklyn, NY (NYC), USA

Great piece. The same can be said of many of the Mid Eastern countries. "[their] belief is no more peaceable than ours; and that IT SUPPRESSES INDIVIDUALITY. People think collectively; first in terms of the community, extended family and tribe." Christianity can change that way of thinking.

Mary, Los Angeles, USA

"Africa needs Christ to save them from the tribe. The west needs Christ to save them from the individual. "
Wow, well said.just religion will do no need to specify.
wish people who post " the prince of peace, blood of the lamb" inanities would refrain as their is otherwise some great points here.

Brandon Sandford, london,

Thanks Mr Parris, for your objective, insightful article on African realities. Having lived there and had considerable contact with missionaries for over 60 years, I concur with your findings. Their efforts have drawn criticism, but Jesus said:" The truth will make you free". He's never been wrong.

Maurice Bartlett, Auckland, New Zealand

God's Spirit is dealing with you. I worked in Ethiopia six months in 07 with the Gumaz tribe and the Mursi. It was unbelievable the difference Christianity has brought. Last two months working on a Christian hospital in Niger. Christian doctors, nurses giving healing, hope and gospel of Christ

Mitch Harris, Edmond, Ok., USA

Thank you for your journalism and candor with this article, not afraid to speak of the effects of a worldview that is even contrary to your own.

Michelle Jones, Dallas, United States

At the ground level of any nation or continent, the problem is thinking that God is not already working there without the missionaries. There would be Christians in Africa without Western missionaries and although I agree with missionaries, thinking Luther began a "better" Christianity is silly.

Paul, Pasadena, United States

This is how "He makes the nations prove (i.e. test) the wonders of His love."

Mary K., Georgia, USA

That you aproached the data with an open mind is absolutely commendable. Our western civilization has thrown away its biblical foundation and is rapidly turning into a violent society without the ability to think beyond what is told them on biased news networks. Love comes only from God.

Dave Reimer, Kansas City, U.S.A.

What did European "civilization," hand in hand with Christianity, bring to Rwanda? Among other things, it broadened the ethnic divide and sowed the seeds of genocide. If there is a God, he would have turned his back on those who preached modernity in his name . . .

C. Adams, Vancouver, Canada

As a missionary who has lived in Africa, I can only say that this articles hits it right on the nose! No amount of foreign aid, be it financial or social, will change Africa like spiritual rebirth will. The fact that a so-called atheist acknowledges this truth gives it more weight. Great article!

Jennifer O., Mbarara, Uganda

Wake up Matthew and look at the work of Christians of all denominations in Africa. Take a look at Project Gateway, Africa Enterprise and River of Life Church in Pietermaritzburg and you will see wide-spread progress all around you. Nice article though, shows and open mind. I am praying for you.

Brian Andrews, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Matthew Parris admits that the faith and beliefs that being a christian evoke can aid a person and better them, but this does not mean that Jesus is the "Son of God". Christian teachings and "ethics" are largely beneficial to society but this in no way proves or even suggests that God is real.

Toddie, London,

Objective in the extreme! Excellent.

Mike Fox, Liverpool, UK

Wow! Finally an atheist who is not afraid to admit the truth. Perhaps his days as an atheist are dwindling. This is exactly the point of true Christianity. It changes a person from the inside out. Jesus said "The truth will set you free" and this is a great example of this truth! Thanks Matthew

Jim May, Kawasaki, Japan

Though I personally dislike the organized church, she's been behind many of the major advancements in human history because she utilizes them. The expansion of Rome to spread herself, spread ideas of education, community, art, architecture. Where would we be without it? Ponder that.

Rose, Simi Valley, USA

Being one of those commited christians - born again 35 yrs, sold on Jesus you might say, I agree that I am not motivated anymore because of what I believe to be right, but because of what is changed 'inside of my heart'. That 'new life' has produced a new attitude, which is what Matt speaks of.

gwen newnham, newcastle, UK

I once heard the comment, "Only in total surrender is true freedom possible"
That's what faith is, it is totally surrendering all our fear, worry, depression, lack of self-worth, desire to control. And in doing so receive LOVE. And with that love, freedom and a peace we could never have imagined.

Bree Coleman, Gold Coast, Australia

Excellent, thoughtful piece that expresses the value of individual human aspiration, pointing out that traditional African tribal 'spiritual' beliefs are collective and may constrain change and development. The commentators who think that the article undermines atheism miss the point

Ian James, Canberra, Australia

They stood tall due to the joy of peace from God and the hope that lives beyond this world. Africa (and world) needs God and that catalyst of change needs to come from a change in the individual's heart. A change influenced by love in action because God first loved us through his son Jesus Christ.

James Mu, Sydney, Australia

Just because something is calming, conforting and helpful doesn't make it so. Frankly I think it is patronising to say "Well I don't need faith, and nor does Europe, but Africa does."

Ben, York,

As someone who lives and works in a Muslim country that is officially CLOSED to missionaries, all I can say to your article is AMEN!!

Tim, Fes, Morocco

How honest and sensible. May I quote the One Who so changed my worldview 50 years ago- Thou art not far from the Kingdom.

Brian cole, Hastings, UK

Thank you, Mr Parris. How refreshing to read an objective and insightful article on Africa. Those with 2nd agendas go to great lengths to disparage the work of Christian Missionaries. Jesus said: " The truth will set you free." African Christians - like others - value truth,humility,transparency too

Maurice Bartlett, Auckland, New Zealand

Bravo, Mr. Parris, for your keen insight into the role world view plays in brining about freedom & the conquest of poverty. I invite your attention of Garry WIlls book "Head and Heart " for a study of the role of Christianity plus the Enlightement in creating the positive world view you describe.

Geoff, Irvine, California, USA

I applaud Mr. Parris for insight and affirmation of what many hold to be true. To change the world there must be change in the hearts of people. Jesus Christ came to change men's hearts not their circumstances but history has proven when men's hearts truly change, cultures change for the better.

Robert, Columbia, USA

I'm a Catholic convert of five years and my mind is certainly not "enslaved." Indeed, for the first time in my life it is free of material "need" and I have an understanding that this life is just a beginning. Good article Mr Parris, a brave one too.
You are definitely in my prayers.

Rob P., Austin, TX, USA

This is the most direct, truth filled and sensible article I have read for a long time. Having lived for many years in Congo DRC among rural africans I know that faith in God and in Jesus Christ transforms both heart and mind. The missionary message rescued a whole tribe from certain extinction.

Edmund Rowlands, Margate, UK

I have to say this is one of the best comment articles I've ever read in the times and its something I have thought about over the last number of years as an Agnostic.

Faith may be an enslaver of minds but it can change society for the better as it teaches good values and morals.

Chris, Belfast, UK / Ireland

I think Mr Parris has said it like it is. Money without God in any continent, not only Africa, will only serve as a weapon of distruction. As a malawian and also a christian, i belive that God is truly the solution for Africa, after that we can deal with poverty and war.

Ekarimie, Blantyre, Malawi

Then why, of why are you still an atheist? Truth is truth - for the African, for me, for you and for the whole world. God's truth liberates - Frees us to worship our Creator, acknowledging that He alone is worthy of our trust. He alone gives purpose to life! . Insightful article - thanks!

Judy Ambrosius, Springville, USA

A fascinating affirmation that the way people understand life's reality shapes their actions, for better and for worse. Biblical mandates create, encourage, order life, in contrast to fatalistic religions; the person of God stands out from the confusion of multiple spirits and impersonal materialism.

Udo Middelmann, Gryon, Switzerland

may suggest that it is not the belief system of Christianity that is providing the change that is needed, but it is the One in whom the "system" is rooted. Christianity is not the bottom line. Christ is. search it out.

Jordan, Fenton, US

As a strong agnostic, I applaud your article sir, more so the man that's apparent in your words.

I think the benefit Christianity brings is relational. Friends change mindsets, not organizations, secular or religious. Some flavors of Christianity emphasize that, and that is to be applauded.

Marshall Wilson, Cheyenne, USA

A brilliant piece that cuts through all the political correctness, and defines the problem at the cultural level without implying that its a "black" problem. Well done. I've heard the same analysis from a missionary in Chad, except that he rooted the spiritual problem in the Animistic world view.

Gaylan Mathiesen, Fergus Falls, MN, USA

Thank you for your articulate and carefully thought out article. Your open mindedness is refreshing and for that you have my respect.

Amy S, Nagoya, Japan

i am a card-carrying atheist; i approached the article aghast: an atheist has this idea!? such clarity in thought, and intelligence in speech opened my eyes. i will probably never believe in god, but i can belive in the work that believers deliver: spiritual affirmation. a simply wonderful article.

hannie, buenos aires, argentina

truly well written article; really wonderful to read something to well thought-through, mature and even-handed. It made me very happy to read this.

michael walsh, manchester,

This is one the best articulations of the African worldview I have read. Having lived in Malawi a short year and a half, my wife and I have been confronted with the stark contrast in conceptual schemes. We are missionaries & of course appreciate affirmation, but agree the core issue is worldview.

Daniel Robbins, Lilongwe, Malawi

Indeed any lasting positive impact is found where a change of heart has taken place.It is only through a personal encounter with Redeemer and creator God.I believe Christianity has done alot of good in the continent of Africa and also in other parts of the world.

Rev.Joe Michael Kamau, Nairobi, Kenya

Dear Matthew, As someone who also grew up in Africa, born in South Africa and living in Rhodesia for three years and now living in the USA, I completely agree with your observations. The fact is that there is no liberation without the liberation that is brought by Christianity .

Glynn Smith, Laguna Hills, CA, USA

As a former atheist, it took yrs to realize I left God due to a "religious" father (& pillar in the church) being verbally & emotionally abusive. I returned to God in 05 (it was a gradual process). I am at peace and I am an Eucharistic minister. Life is great even when the teachings are difficult.

FLNonny, Gainesville, USA

Great insights that ring true to me after over a dozen trips to do training work in Africa. I wonder though, how much more evidence does Mr. Parris need to recognize some kind of divine force behind the positive impact that Christianity is having given the difference it makes against great odds?

Timothy Johnson, Eden Prairie, USA

Dear Matthew,

Thank you for your refreshingly transparent article.

Could I be so bold as to ask, 'What decided you to become an atheist?' The so-called scientific evidence? Is this evidence you have seen enough to provoke a re-think about the reality of the Creator God?

Tas Walker, Brisbane, Australia

Just providing pumps won't change peoples attitudes, views, outlook or spirit. A radical change in the lives of individuals can change a nation. Pumps are good and necessary. Keep providing pumps and other aid, but without a change of spirit in individuals little progress will be made.

George Anderson, Freeland, Md., USA

I think the disbelief among Christians is rooted primarily in the reality that non-religious individuals down-play the role of faith in development and only focus on the benefits of physical interventions. It's unusual to have someone acknowledge the positive role Christian faith plays in change.

Barak , Spring Hill, USA

Despite the immensity of the problems wrought by individualism in America, Parris suggests that Africa would be saved by Christian missionaries teaching Africans to be more individualistic? Thus is based on a political ideology--individualism, good; consideration of common good, bad--not faith.

Brenda , Vancouver, Canada

Yes, good article. What is depressing is that so many of the obviously religious believers have reacted as if it is surprising for an atheist to hold such views. It is arrogant and offensive for religious people to assert that only those who share their beliefs care about and help others.

Graham Montague, Bodmin, UK

Thank you for your honest and open-minded observations.

Natalie, London, UK

Since Living and serving in two African countries since 1991, I agree - Parris has some good points.
The gospel of Christ brings all to a level of equality in a culture. Here, culturally, africans oppress africans and smile. Yet , all human life has value, Christ taught that - it changes culture

Steve King, San Pedro, Cote d'Ivoire

I am impressed by the intellectual courage Mr. Parris exhibits, and hope he continues his journey. He is onto something about the "why and how" the Christian faith liberates. If he continues to struggle free of the atheist tribal groupthink he may find a liberating transformation of his own.

Jarrett Johnson, Carpinteria, USA

I have just returned from Ghana, Africa, where I went on a missions trip with a non-profit called, With This Ring, and I agree that without Christ, things will continue to decline there. We provide clean water in Jesus' name, and we are seeing amazing miracles that I know can only come from God.

Ali Eastburn, Yorba Linda, USA

Thank you, Mr. Parris, for an objective observation of the Christians in Africa. Your observation of their fearlessness and joy, from knowing Jesus personally, is so true of Christians all over the world, Praise God you see the difference in those who bear His Name.

Donna Kupferschmidt, Montello, USA

Very thought provoking indeed. Seems like there are so many oppressive forces at work that it has to be something as fundamental as a strong belief system like Christianity to really catalyse change. Makes me uneasy though.

Jo , London,

A remarkable and objective piece of writing. Even though Mr Parris is an atheist, he is able to perceive and acknowledge the genuineness of Christians. As a Christian myself, I was impressed by his honesty, and wish to thank him for producing a profound and impressive article.

Roger Aubrey, Cardiff, UK

Great article. A reporter who is not bound by his own philosophy and who is willing to objectively look at life and facts.
Christianity does liberate! When a man is unafraid he can and does progress and help his neighbors progress.

Robert Allan, Glasgow, UK

This is true of missionaries throughout the ages whenever they has a zeal for people, they have transformed lives; Physical just not Spirtual throughout the world; I remember of a dark continent called Europe 1500 years ago which was more uncivilised than any of the others at that time.

Franklin Barrett, High Prairie, Canada

Yes, it is easy to say that it would be better for the help to be non-christian, or that it was the help not the faith that was useful. The problem is that the help comes from the missionary's belief and connection with God. The action of God, direct or indirect, is the difference. Like it or not.

Joshua, Goleta, USA

Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what GOD'S will is—HIS good, pleasing and perfect will. (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Nancy, Louisville, U.S.A.

Well if lying to someone makes them happy who are we to complain, right?

matt, westminster, usa

Praise God!
The blunt honesty here amazes me. God is obvious to both the believeers and unbelievers. How true though, is the fact that when God is taken from the equation and we are left to meddle and handle our own affairs, life becomes quickly askew and full of pain. where are our missionaries!

Gretchen, Chewelah, USA

You put into words my experience as a Christian Missionary in Africa. Thank you for sharing your observation.
HH. Tulsa Oklahoma

Hailey Hopkins, Tulsa,

Jesus makes the difference. It is sometimes religion that causes the killing, the meaness, the wars. A real relationship with a real person, Jesus Christ will never do these things.

cindy Heyne, Satellilte Beach,, USA

To Alan in London, UK: You asked where the Bible expressly prohibits slavery, try 1 Timothy 1:10. Slave trading is included in a list of sins that are condemned by the law given in the Bible.

Doug, Elk Grove,

In response to Dave, London, UK, I would like to say one's teachings alone cannot change a human heart. As a Christian for 30 + years I have struggled with some of the teachings and requirements of the LORD I serve. It is the Spirit of the "Living God" that changes human hearts, desires and lives.

Andra, Creswell, USA

>>"Those who don't have education need religion to guide them."
>>Alex Young, London

Ouch! who said this..such a misguided statement. As if education comes unaffected by what people belive in. And as if Nazi Germany was uneducated. And what about kids in the UK? Oh, if only education could help!

VP, London, UK

I so rarely run into an atheist that is so honest in regards to the beliefs of those he doesn't agree with. I usually encounter the arrogance and "Religious" fanaticism of those like Dawkins and Hitchens who would argue both sides of a coin, as long as it didn't give credit to a Christian. Thanks!

mike, seattle, usa

This article was a real blessing. Knowing Jesus is only possible relationally. In other words ... you can't know until you know. Otherwise it is just head knowledge. I feel sure that Jesus would tell you (Matthew) that "you are at the door" and to keep pressing in. Gary (former secular V.P.)

Gary Morgan, Henderson, USA

Absolutely superb. The God idea makes all people spiritually equal to the right of life. It also banishes fractious demonism by uniting all phenomena into a single will. It is impossible to explain to post-religious people the uncertainty, anxiety and horror of a world possessed by demons.

DG, Toronto,

One of the most fascinating articles I've read in a while, impressing me for its honesty. We so easily see what we *want* to see, not what is actually there; a flaw in Christians and non-Christians both! One question: if we are prescribing Christianity as the solution for Africa, why not here?

Tom Bacon, Orskirk, UK

Mr Paris

Your article is a genuine outpouring of your mind. Human Beings tend to keep quite or fight against reason when the opposite of their belief challenges them.
I encourage you to "test" the christain faith and see whether you can undertstand what/ who changes them. Worthwhile while alive

Lloyd kambwiri, Zomba, Malawi

A lot of people here seem to be taking this article as proof that Jesus is 'real', when it is the 'teachings' of Jesus that are improving people's outlook - an outlook on life that can be found outside of Christianity.
An Atheist (eg myself) can have the same postive traits without the belief

Dave, London, UK

I can agree with this, but I think that it can be generalized too far. As an American I see a LOT of both it's good and bad sides. The ones who make it to African, and hang around for a while are most likely the good. The TV preachers are more likely to fly in for a day and leave.

Terry, Lexington, USA

by humanity, not God.

June, Cape Town , South Africa

Mr. Parris' article points out the uncomfortable truth that the human heart is either governed by Christ Jesus, or it is ruled by something else. We in the modern West suffer from our own versions of "the mercy of the malign fusion" described. This problem is true in Malawi, but also in Manhattan.

Tom T, Columbia, SC, USA

Mr. Parris Im not trying to convert you but if you get the chance watch Father Groschel on Sunday Night Live on EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network).
Thanks for being objective for we Christians. Im going to say it I will pray for you because of what you said here.
Thanks for objecivity. Luv

Holly, Oswego, USA

How refreshingly honest!

Not only In Africa does Christ change people's hearts, though. We have reaped the social benefits of christian spiritual renaissance in Europe for over 450 years and now take them so much for granted that we often lose sight of their source.

Stephen, Farnham, United Kingdom

Rwanda was a heavily Christian country and this did not stop a genocide, in some cases with murders happening in a church and organised by priests. Did Christianity help or hinder tribalism?

Grant, Auckland,

I don't agree in entirety with Mr Parris. Western writers usually fail to appreciate the complexities of African society. There is a new danger posed by the rabid Christian and Islamic fundamentalism developing in Africa which which will also leave the people bound by unhealthy group think.

Lekan, Aberdeen, United Kingdom

The comments that follow Mr Parris' piece (here and elsewhere on the net) missed an important sad implication: Africa Otherness. This article is less a question of Mr Parris' belief as it is an ostensibly gracious allowance for what can only be possible with the African as portrayed.

Annaird Naxela, New York, USA

Thank you, Mr. Parris. You did well. You have earned the respect of men whose respect matters.

Dan Zimsen, Bremerton, Washington USA

This kind of "embarrassing" honesty and open intellectual struggle is a rare find in journalism. Thank you for sharing observations that don't fit neatly into a tight, clean philosophical compartment.

Ryan, Denver, United States

A while ago, Max Weber (also an unbeliever) made an observation that is remarkably similar Mr Parris's: superstition and the belief in magic promote conformism and are major obstacles to any kind of innovation. Weber credited Christianity with liberating the West from this yoke.

Alejandro Jenkins, Cambridge, MA, USA

The belief in witchcraft is the scourge of all sub-Saharan cultures. Christianity sometimes frees people from this belief, but so does Marxism. There is nothing special about Christianity here. It is a historical accident that it was the successful missionary religion in this part of the world.

Mark Massyn, Stevenage,

The comments following this article show that it has struck a resounding chord. The crux here is that those who will not be governed by Christ will certainly be ruled by something else, and at the mercy of the "malign fusion" of the place and time nearest them.

Even an atheist can see that.

Thomas J., Columbia, SC, USA

Wow, what powerful and insightful journalism! All of this is true. I have seen this same transformation in those in the U.S. as well as around the world.

Thank you for your candor and honesty.

Gretchen , Calabasas, California,

Ironic that postmodern, relativistic western culture can now prescribe Christ for a culture deemed "primitive." Do we completely deny that we are also at the mercy of a malign fusion of our self-created gods? We are blind to the history of the grace of our liberation. The lampstand removed.

Lindy, Athens, Georgia, USA

Mr Parris, Thank for telling us what you observed instead of what you would have liked to observe. May you meet more people in 'developed' countries who are able to shine with the light of Jesus as well.

Lalile, Fortaleza, Brazil

It is now blessedly apparent, dear honest journalist, that you are no longer an atheist. Just as the radical transformation of the African soul is an act of God in concert with the truth of the Gospel, so the God you thought did not exist has awakened your own heart through the truth. We thank Him

Joseph E. Kontz Jr., Fort Howard, USA

I am an educator who specializes in educating the underprivileged. While education is certainly important, it cannot change the heart. It will never erase shame or judgment. In fact, the more educated one becomes, often, the more one thinks of himself, and the less he thinks of others at all.

Erik, Bridgewater, MA, USA

What the Christian religion does is make everyone your family. As James Joyce put it, "Here comes everyone."

So tribalism doesn't die; it becomes meaningless - except as a separation of the human from the animal - which civilization requires.

Denyse O'Leary, Toronto, Canada

Instead of ensuring Africa's eternal salvation let's start with our own... 1) Stop to Western Companies exploiting Africa 2.) Stop to the West propping up murderous regimes for foreign policy purposes 3.) Stop to the West dealing arms to Africa 4.) Stop to the West maintaining African debt....

Cornelius Riethdorf, Cambridge, England

Raamesh

When man revolts against religion you have rampant sex, drugs, disease, malnutrition and most importantly... no hope.

lew, berwick, usa

Thank you Mr. Parris for your insightful and courageous article. You are to be commended for your observations and your willingness to share them, even though they contradict your own world view. Christians and Atheists alike would do well to follow your example of honesty and integrity.

Larry Ballard, Milton, WI, USA

Great piece. Jesus Christ DOES make a difference on the heart of the individual,manifesting in the outward acts of love and humanitarian aid. In America, we need more Christians to step up and sacrificially, lovingly do what is being done in Africa. He who believes on the Son has eternal life.

Bob King, Cedar Park, America

African need education not God. All over world people did the progress with help of education,even all western countries are developed with the help of education . Religion make man blind , when people revoult aginst religion only then they made progress. We do not need God we want morden education.

Raamesh Raghuvanshi, Pune 411030, INDIA

Thank you, Mr. Parris, for an intelligent, insightful and honest appraisal of the work and worth of Christian missions in Africa. It takes significant bravery these days to step out in the press and confirm the effectiveness of Christ to drastically change lives.

Jan Bailey McCauley, Tyler, Texas, United States

Even if one does not want to believe in Jesus as Savior, just the idea of the atonement, of what Jesus did on the cross, is worth living and dying for. It was a totally outward act, calling us to abandon our selfish lives, calling us rather to lives of self-sacrifice and service.

Larry Vanderaa, Bamako,

India is also a country whose power is a result of Christianity. Vishal Mangalwadi, a brilliant Indian philosopher, has written two books which discuss this-- The Legacy of William Carey: A Model for the Transformation of a Culture and India: The Grand India: The Grand Experiment as well as others.

Karen, Hermantown MN, USA

Mr Parris: I truly believe the West needs God for the very same reasons. Zimbabwe has its Mugabe; USA has its Madoff. The same problem exists everywhere. People without God--more than religion; but life-altering belief--are capable of climbing on the backs of others. Very thoughtful, Mr Parris.

John Wilson, Mississauga, Canada

The mind boggles! Christian missionaries halted regional evolution of social order in the divergent tribes of Africa, which were developing according to local conditions throughout the huge geographic expanse. Christian missionaries' European thinking in relation to sociobiology, were/are unsuited

Rozmarija Grauds, Hawley PA, USA

Actually it wasn't Hillary but his Everest predecessor Mallory but said: 'Because it's there'

Roderick Clyne, Singapore, Singapore

If it takes lies,untruths, and fantasies to get certain people to stop killing I'm all for it. I used to be 100% convinced of being rewarded with virgins in the after life if obedient and severe punishment if if I was not obedient so I understand how powerful beliefs in untrue things can be.

Anwal James, Bangkok, Thailand

It is true.Africa needs God who created Africa.He also created Africans in His on Image and likeness.God truly enlightens everyone who comes to him in humble faith.John 1:1-15.Need I to add that Barrack Obama the first African American president of the United States Of America Believes in God.

Alexander Nyenze Mulemi, Nairobi, Kenya

Mr Parris

I am pleased you recognise Faith-Based organisations and their contribution to local communities in Africa. RAFFA International Development Agency, promotes community development and reduces poverty by encouraging enterprise and increased productivity amongst individuals ( raffa.org.uk )

rudi page, london, uk

A great article, in fact I was thinking about all that after skirmishes in January 2008 elections in Kenya. When people stopped thinking about politicians and started praying then peace returned.

I live in Kenya and I can say the church is doing great things no one else will ever do.

Peter, Nairobi, Kenya

In spite of billions of dollars "invested" in Africa over the years by Western NGO's we still have not gotten to the intrinsic issue of that continent - the heart of men. Africa is not alone, those of us in the West must look deep inside our own hearts as well. We hide behind our relative wealth.

Igbaja, Chapel Hill NC, USA

Thanks for an honest, objective view. It is amazing how God's instructions work in life. Quite a coincidence.

Drew Knowles, Nacogdoches, TX, USA

Thanks for writing not only w/ honesty but also w/ depth. The depth (not many people realize) -- True faith in Jesus Christ (not mere religious badge) has compelled thousands of ppl to put other ppl 1st so that these people might have fullness of life in Christ. I Pray that you'll experience it =)

Cahyadi Tjokro, Singapore, Singapore

Mr. Parris should look at Equip International (www.equipinternational.com) which provides training for missionaries in community health, construction tech, emergency dentistry, energy efficient shelter, filter tech, food production, medicine intensive, primary eye care & water well drilling & pumps

Hugh, Glenview Illinois, USA

Great article. i worked in Uganda, Kenya and Sudan as medical missionary. If hearts are unchanged in Africa all the money spent on development will continue to be wasted. World views, values, stuff that is on the "inside" is the source of Africa's biggest problem. They are their own worse enemy.

Jim, Glendale, US

I agree with Mr Parris. I pray the freedom Christ gives continues to liberate Africa. I have seen the same transformation in the lives of many all over the world. Money can corrupt, education can bring pride, but life in Christ sets captives free.

david Gates, Atlanta,

Ignorance of the truth is the greatest slavery and obedience to the truth is the greatest freedom. Biblical Christianity is riveted to the truth ... and is therefore the greatest securer of freedom known to man, no matter the culture. I trust you will come to that truth by trusting Christ alone.

Steve, Decatur, USA

Having lived and worked in Kenya, I can truly relate to and agree on what Mathew is talking about. The saving message of Christ is bringing transformation in Africa.

sammy m, nairobi/washington dc, kenya/usa

It's interesting to go through the comments and see the difference between those who have actually lived in Africa and those who have not (though many of the latter seem to think they know more about Africa and its problems).

Mike Blyth, Jos, Nigeria

Whether the West where we worship individual autonomy or in societies where "Ubuntu" type philosophy prevails, the greedy selfishness of men/women shows that no system/structure is perfect. In the west we need to think about curbing our individualism. I've lived in both worlds.

John D Wilson, Acton, Ontario, Canada

Dear Mathew, You did an incredible job of describing what Christianity is and the importance of personal relationship with the Lord which releases us to reflect His goodness to others. He is available to all who will embrace Him even when they don't understand fully. That is where Faith comes in.

Claudia Legg, Vancouver, Washington, USA

As a Westerner, I can understand optimism that an appealing belief system such as Western Christianity offers advantages such as individual value.

As a Christian, I see the danger in individualization and I hope that we can learn from other cultures. I don't want Africa to become another USA!

Ben Triplett, Chapel Hill, NC, USA

As a director of a mission (whm.org), I saw what Mr. Parris saw first hand. One of our missionaries after teaching a young Ugandan leader the gospel, asked him what he would do. The young leader said, "I think I will eat with my wife."

Paul Miller, Philadelphia, USA

This article is generating a great deal of discussion amongst Christians - intrigued at Matthew's response and challenged by his observations and conclusions.

It would be interesting to hear his observations if the same sort of Christian impact bears the same fruit in people's lives in the west...

Andy Shudall, Auckland, New Zealand

Angry atheism offers nothing that the animist wants or needs. Not only in Africa but in every culture and language and century, Christians have reported a distinct difference between their old lives and their new lives. Jesus kindly gives us hope, peace, and joy. Real scientists will take notes.

Valerie, Wisconsin, USA

Great article. I believe Christianity has powerful effects on bringing change. America was founded on Christian principles. Christian influences in Africa must be open minded and allow for use of contraceptives though.

Mike O, Holland, MI/USA

Dear Mr. Parris,

Praise God for your life and honesty. Darwin himself, I was told, in spite of his unscientific nonsense, kept supporting Christian missionary work to the end of his days. Don't waste your life like him.
I pray this season for the salvation of your precious soul, in Jesus' dear Name

Rev. Romulus C., Békéscsaba, Hungary

What a beautiful piece you have written. There is a revolutionary aspect to the Christian life that you have captured eloquently. The chains are GONE. There is no earthly limits to a Christian's hope. Life is lived to the fullest. I wish this for you, Matthew. Why can't you believe in Jesus? Tell us

Margaret, Columbus, USA

I am wondering if Matthew really is an atheist. He may reject much of the philosophical theorising about God. Christians believe that the real God is like Jesus.

He talks about having "a foot in both camps". Perhaps he is a Christian and atheist - the first Christians were accused of atheism.

Jimmy Hamilton-Brown, Blandford, UK

Dear Matthew. Your article demands commendation. Thanks. You have uncovered the well hidden truth the impact of the Christian gospel has had upon the rural-traditional cultures of Africa. As much as you despise missionaries, this was not achieved without their hard work and unsung sacrifice.

Brian Coombe, Eastbourne,

I am a Malawian presently living in the UK. This is a very good observation from an athiest. Christ love you bro! Missionaries with a genuine heart for the Lord and Malawi are vital for progress.

If anyone is interested to take part in mission work in Malawi check out www.footprintsofhope.net

Lotan Matewere, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales

This has been in my reading, one one of the most honest pieces of writing I have found in this organization. To prove how correct we need only look at the chaos in Africa, and how it now effects the whole world. Piracy has come close to bringing the world to a crawl in world trade.

Ralph Buschman, Woodridge, U.S.A.

This article applies to all third world countries. Where there is missionary activity the people are more stable and more peaceful. In my travels I have met these dedicated men and women who give so much of themselves to alleviate the suffering of other humans by doing good work. Good article

Faqi, London, UK

Working for an organisation similar to Pump Aid, I feel honoured to read this. Often we get such a bad rap. To have an honest evaluation of us based on results and then enquire about the reason for success feels very liberating. You have been a source of Good News to this Christian today!

John, Stockton-on-Tees, UK

I teach graduate school in the U. S. and have traveled to Africa three times to teach. I am impressed by the gains made by tribes that have turned in faith to Jesus Christ. I am frustrated by the ongoing economic destabilization of one tribe over another when they do not share a faith.

Steve Clinton, Orlando, USA

This has to be the most original column I've read in the Times for a long long time. Thanks for the thought-provoking writing and a willingness to swim against the flow.

pg, cardiff, UK

I have extensively travelled throughout Africa beginning in the early 70's until the present and I totally agree with this article. I have long said that only the teaching of Jesus can overcome the corruption, violence, fear and destructive aspects of the African way of thinking.

Mark Cole, Calgary, CANADA

Mr. Parris,
Thank you for seeing and speaking with brave honesty. You describe things that are actually occurring within the individual human heart that consequently flow out into the general culture.
Jesus Christ does changes lives just as you describe. God is indeed good.

John Rykken, Milwaukie, USA

As well-written and considered as this article is, the fact is that the author's brand of altruistic atheism would probably benefit Africa (and the rest of the world,) far more than Xtianity. I don't doubt that the conversion from tribal religions is good, but there are just better roads to take.

Weston Tulloch, Bay City, USA

Couldn't the same be argued for the English sub-classes that have developed as a result of 60 years of socialism?They are totally passive, dependant on the State ,lazy, feckless,promiscuous, no family or work values to speak of. Britain could do with a few missionaries.

J.Rocha, Salvador , Brazil

Eco-disasters loom. Africa-born, I note God said "Fill the earth", not overfill it. 'Love your neighbour as yourself' includes future neighbours: hence need inter alia for voluntary contraception, to ensure not so many as to jeopardise all African life. MP is right to specify reformed Christianity!

John Guillebaud, Oxford, UK

I admire Mr. Parris' courage and intellectual honesty. Courage to go beyond superficial platitudes, and honesty to seek the good rather than the vindication of personal beliefs. Bravo. We are the better for this article. Thank you.

Justin, Rome, Italy

I second what Mark of Johannesburg says. Also a non-religious Jew originally from South Africa, I noted that the 3 party leaders of SA (at power sharing handover) got together and prayed for the country. Which country is doing the best in Africa? I rest my case. Africa needs God. Well done Mr Parris

R Harris, Perth, Australia

Congratulations to Mr Parris for such a perceptive and relevant article. It seems a pity that the church refuses keep up with the times. Africans,new to its ideas, will benefit from its ancient thought patterns. But our understanding has altered over many centuries. A spiritual vacuum looms!

John , Blandford, Dorset

Mr Thomson hardly seems open-minded himself...."superstitious nonsense"

Randy, Mclean, Virgina,

I think many commenters are missing the subtext of this article.
How can a person's dependence on the "crutch" of religion be a good thing? Are we so uncaring about Africa, long-term, to say "the ends justify the means"? We encourage people to delude themselves if it gets results? How patronising.

brian t, Dublin, Ireland

This is one of the finest, exquisitely constructed and thoroughly thought-through article I have read in many a long day.

I have been exhorting friends to go 'buy The Times today'.

Mr Parris, I salute you

CRM

CRM, Glasgow, Scotland

Bravo for Mr. Parris and his honesty! His worst enemies right now -- unfortunately -- are probably his fellow atheists, who usually seem to be rabidly opposed to Christianity. No other religions (no matter how violent & evil they prove themselves to be) -- just Christianity. Ask yourselves WHY.

Lori, Mountain Grove, MO, USA

This is the most interesting article I have read in years - it should be developed into a book to counter the "It takes a village" nonsense.

L. Dobhansky, KCMO, USA

Good article. It also represents the kind of thinking non Christian westerners had for 100's of years. Those few non Christians founders of the United States certainly thought this way, even more so. I would call this reality based thought, observable and scientifically testable.

Dan, Phoenix, AZ, USA

Mr. Parris is right on. The kind of love that Christ brings is unique. It transforms. The kindness that man-worshipping humanists have is ineffective at best.

thomas hollingsworth, pharr, usa

Bergin, It may sound presumptuous to say it's Christianity/God, but it's not. It's the life changing power of the risen Jesus who loves and ministers through His servants; who in this case are called Christian missionaries. It's been going on for 2,000 years. But, I suspect you know this.

Dave Gonzales, Lakewood, CA, USA

Over a period of 57 years we witnessed the transformation of a tribe (Kambattan) from being slaves to Satan worship, living in fear, to becoming 'born again' followers of Christ. In January 09 as many as 30,000 Christians will climb the same mountain (Ambaricho) to ask God to save our lost world.

Ralph Jacobson, North Vancouver, Canada

If I had no faith, why would I *care* that Africans suffer?
If I have faith, then they are my brothers and sisters and so I *must* care. And for the ignorant and hateful ( or should I say fearful) Africa was Christian before most of Europe +all of the Americas. Only the Muslim invasion changed that

Annie B, Portland, USA

Matthew - your writing again shows, as it always does, enormous integrity.

Peter Holttum, Ferndown, UK

He that sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for in the image of God made he man. Hence the right to life.

Since no culture before the Christian West abolished slavery the remarkable thing is that it was abolished, not that it continued. The post-Christian West has plenty.

Jason, Auckland,

Perhaps true, but is this not a rather cynical reason to (have others) believe? Is faith something special or is it just another tool in the self-improvement toolbox?

Philip B, Dresden, Germany

Matthew: credit for an honesty that must be uncomfortable.Now, given that nothing else has been effective, how does one explain the liberating power of the pure Gospel? Does it not follow that some deep intrinsic human need is being met in a singularly effective way? What are the implications?

Paul B., NY, USA

The article only proves philosophical transformations need to accompany economic ones. Christianity is useful only as a halfway house to the ethical egalitarianism, secularism, and science that teach humans to engage the world as it really is and as it is engaged best. Long term, it's not the answer

Dan Fincke, Bronx, NY USA,

Clearly secularism/atheism is on the rise in Europe, and even the USA. Belief in God is far more widespread in Africa; but I know where I'd rather live. Maybe Africa could just do with a lot less superstition, whether Christian, Islamic, or any other kind?

Andrew, London, UK

A case can be made for one religion/ superstition over others on the basis of it's greater humanity, but what Africa surely needs above all is a greater commitment to basic human rights. You will struggle to find these rights in the Bible: where, for example, is the express prohibition on slavery?

Alan, London, UK

Yes, let us all take up the "white man's burden".

Mark, York, NE, USA

Faith, apart from a sufficient object of that faith, is powerless. It is Jesus who transforms people. His sacrifice on the cross paid the penalty our sin incurred from God's holy justice. Forgiveness received produces joy & peace unlike any other. We would all do well to heed the gospel of Christ.

Ed Christiansen, Merrimack, USA

Christianity in itself does not help Africa. Jesus does. Jesus gives great hope to those all around the world. He is not a crutch for the uneducated. He's a wheelchair for every single person everywhere, no matter where they live or their circumstances. No one can do it on our own.

Kyla Trapp, Morgan Hill, CA,

Maybe what causes this dramatic change in these individuals is the kindess and hope that missionaries bring. People that show kindness tend to bring out the best in other individuals. I think that its presumptuous to attribute this change in mentality to God/Christianity.

Bergin, Davis, CA, USA

Some here seem to believe that education replaces the role of Christianity but despite almost everybody in the UK being educated to a greater or lesser degree, the decline in religious observance is mirrored by a decline in morals and behaviour - we have lost our moral compass.

Maddy, Worcester, England

Africa needs Christ to save them from the tribe. The west needs Christ to save them from the individual.

Athol Moore, Brisbane, Australia

Just on a matter of detail, I understand that it was either Mallory or Irvine of the pre-war attempts on Everest who produced that memorable phrase 'because it is there' when asked about their repeated expeditions to climb the mountain.

Anthony Back, Wellington, Telford, England

Dear Matthew
thank you for your honesty in this ex article. Commending something you don't agree with but you can't deny is highly commendable in itself. I believe that the Christian faith really can bring this kind of transformation at and individual and societal level because it is actually true.

krishk, Thame, UK

Dave of New Zealand. Might it not be the case that sanctions imposed by the Imperialist US have more to do with the deprivation of North Korea than the lack of Christianity by Merciless Missionaries in the South?

aa, Manchester, UK

Africans pray by far the most than any other human race but the number of problems are so enormous and makes one wonder if God put African problems on hold due to the rate at which they occur;disease,war,poverty,famine,drought,corruption you name it all the evils are in Africa.
Why Africa why?

Solomon K Menya, Feltham, UK

AnnIe C, I would agree with your comment, with one small change - "If more Christians were as open as the author, they would gain more respect." Sadly, you will never find a Christian who is willing to 'open his mind' to the possibility that their views are nothing more than superstitious nonsense.

Phillip Thomson, Glasgow, UK

The beauty of this article lies not only in its truth, but in its author.If an atheist can see the beauty of what Jesus has asked us to do, then that speaks to the truth of the message. Currently working in Kenya, I see life when I look into the eyes of people who have decided to trust in God alone.

Shane Kingery RN, Narok, Kenya

Laurence, Christianity is opposed to greed not wealth. When money is your god that goes against the teachings of Christ. There is only one God and He has no rivals. Christianity in South Korea is so strong they send out many missionaries and is one of the fastest growing areas of the church

Glen, Toronto,

Unfortunately the article and the commenters reflect an all-too-common ignorance of the native Christian heritage in Africa. People seldom reflect on the fact that St. Augustine was African! And that Africa, not Europe, was the cradle of Christian monasticism.

Gina, San Jose, USA

Korea! Hmm. Reminds me of the night time photo from space of the Korean peninsula clearly displaying the difference between Christianity and secularism. Anti-God North Korea is almost completely dark, while below the 38th Parallel, where Christians are a third of the population, light blazes.

Dave, Nelson, New Zealand

For those of you who disagree with the author. I respect your opinion. However I suspect some of you speak without having experienced the power you have to help others when you believe that the creator of the universe loves you and has already paid your bounty.

George Hellmuth, Evergreen, USA

I am a professional living in the US. I have an MS in engineering. I have a western work ethick and a western view of the individual. I completely agree with the author of this article. When my faith is strong I have the ability to face problems head in a manner that aims to help those around me

George Hellmuth, Evergreen, USA

God bless you Mr Paris. At last someone speaks the truth.

Ricky, Bakewell, UK

"Look at Japan, South Korea..." Laurence M.

Actually, four hundred years ago Japan had what has been described as a "Christian" century and Catholics and especially Protestants were crucial in Korea's 19/20th century development as a nation. Books have been written on this!

Alex, London,

To: Laurence in Uganda, As a member of the United Methodist Church I have become aware that South Korea has the fastest growing Methodist population in the world and the largest Methodist church. General Douglas MacArthur's post-war reforms of Japan were consistent with Christian values.

Chris, Idaho Falls, USA

Those who don't have education need religion to guide them.

Alex Young, London,

Interesting article. Africa needs immediate massive DIRECTED aid without political conditions attached. Pump Aid successfully delivers such directed aid. But much more is needed. There is more God in Africa (Malawi included) than in the West. Fair trading practices are needed for the long term.

Manilla, Altrincham, Cheshire

For the past hundred years, Christianity has expanded rapidly in South Korea. Many millions of Christians live there today and have made a major impact on the culture and economy. Therefore, Laurence is not correct to say that South Korea developed despite lack of Christianity.

David Feddes, Frankfort, Illinois, USA

Christanity carries with it, probably as a historical accident, the values of the European rennaisance and enlightenment. I suspect that the values of those movements are the prime actors. You might think of Christanity as the vector and these values are the infectious agent.

MW, Phoenix,

"Look at Japan, South Korea, among others, they were never saddled with the meaningless adherence to the Bible..."
Actually, just shy of 30 percent of the South Korean population is Christian.

Ryan Travis, Louisville, USA

Re the first comment on the success of Japan, Korea etc. The Koreans are arguably the heirs of Confucianism, which came from the Chinese, many are devout Christians. Successful societies rest on individuals/groups holding positive values, religious or social, "indigenous" or "transplanted".

Ariel T, Cambridge, USA

While a minority, Christian missionaries landed in Korea and China in the late 1880's.The driving force behind the post WWII political/economic growth in S. Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Christians led the way. Grace and forgivenes are key elements to economic/political freedom.

Ralph, Monroe, USA

Look at Japan, South Korea, among others, they were never saddled with the meaningless adherence to the Bible and, therefore, they are developed despite of the lack of the Christian myth. No society needs Christianity, if for no other reason than that Christianity is fundumentally oppsed to wealth.

Laurence M, Kampala, Uganda

What Africa needs are contraceptives
Frank Columb, Dublin, Ireland.

frank Columb, Dublin, Ireland

It seems to me that Christianity inspires its adherents to build hospitals, schools, orphanages and clean water projects in a way that other religions do not. At the same time you hear so little of Christian suicide bombers walking into crowded Muslim weddings and blowing themselves up.

Brice Baker, Waterford, USA

As an African I have to say well done Mr Parris. I may not agree 100% with all you've said, but I can detect this is coming from the heart and you do care about what happens to Africa.

Ben U, Benin City, Nigeria

As an African, I applaud your 'out of the box' thinking, which is very much at variance with a neo- Marxist orthodoxy that seeks 2 blame colonialism and the West for Africa's problems.
Naturally, expect 2 be maligned by left-leaning intellects that fetishize the "Noble Savage".
A book next?

Baraka, Washington, DC, USA

Africa does need God. Unfortunately, I think God has given up on Africa.

John, Newcastle, UK

Christ sets us free to receive and give love, take risks, have hope and resist the evil power of devilish fear. God puts faith in us so we can receive the redemptive obedience of Jesus as our own and share with others. It happens in people all over the world. Thanks for a very uplifting observation.

Ray Speicher, Pittsburgh, USA

Excellent article. The people need freedom from a traditional belief system that keeps them shackled to fear and ignorance; while Christianity offers them hope for the future- not only in this life but the next. I think that Europe needs God too- to free us from a nihilistic, selfish materialism.

Alex Dixon, Swindon, UK

Thank you for this article, Mr Parris. As a pastor who works in Africa I have had the joy of seeing that life change first hand...as well as expriencing it myself! I appreciate your honesty despite holding a different view and not for the first time I am likely to quote you in a sermon!

Stephen van Rhyn, Cape Town, South Africa

Now that Europe is increasingly secular and cast adrift from its Christian heritage, the good news is that Africa is repaying its debt to those first European missionaries by despatching missionaries of its own to rekindle belief in God and preach the Gospel of Christ here in Britain.

Ray, Birmingham, UK

"fear of evil spirits, of ancestors, of nature and the wild... strikes deep into the whole structure of rural African thought"

So instead you suggest they be "blessed" with Christian guilt, sin and the need to be saved from eternal damnation!
What Africans need is education, not indoctrination.

Chris, Dorking,

I have often admired Parris' open mind to truth which has led him to conclusions which have not gone down well with his fellow atheists. As a Christian who wishes, when faith is inconvenient, that he could be an atheist, I have nothing but admiration for the insight so beautifully expressed.

Trevor Stammers, Epsom, Surrey

Well written Matthew Parris. So absolutely true. You could even be stronger I thought but a very good article indeed.

Philip Hales, Shilton , Burford, UK

Matthew

Well said but why did you have to single out 'post-Reformation and post-Luther' Christianity for praise?

Malawi has 2.8 million Catholics and the Catholic Church is the biggest charitable and missionary organisation in Africa.

Was praising the Catholics a step too far for you?

JimR, Glasgow, UK

Education good, tribalism bad. Simple really.

Brian Jordan, Huddersfield, England

What African countries need are a civil society, education (of the secular kind), a culture that doesn't taboo birth control and gives women rights, and less weapons sold to them by unscrupulous (Western, Russian, ...) weapons dealers.
They have enough of that superstitious nonsense of their own.

Matt, Berlin, Germany

jesus is the way , the truth and the life. without Him there is no hope. one messiah two comings. come again Lord jesus come again. there will be peace when the prince of peace returns to his people and to his country.

harold stewart, johannesburg, south africa

Matthew Parris, your honesty is highly impressive. Well done!

Sam, Oxford,

It's great to see that in Matthew Parris own journey through
life, the Lord Jesus is showing someone who has become
cynical because of the decline of Western-Christianity & society, that Jesus is real and he is building his church &
changing lives.

Philip, Dorset, UK

surely it depends what kind of missionaries?

in a land where the AIDS epidemic is huge and rising, a bunch of people, who whilst having the best of intentions, spread the word that using condoms is evil cannot be a good thing.

jemma henderson, harrogate, uk

If Africa need God Europe need to be delivered from the hands of Satan. Do we truely believe Africa need aid? We we can just stop selling arms to Africa we won'tt bother to send aid to them. If we could stop mortgaging Africa,s natural resources and payiny them almost nothing Africa.

Alex Lisinge, Putney, UK

I agree, buy why is it passive to choose not to climb the mountain? We seek adventure because we are fed, safe and bored. Instead, they want to swim across oceans where food and security are the rewards. They eagerly charge into European and US cities when many of our rural natives would be scared.

Carol L, New York, USA

Could it be that if a personal relationship with God changes hearts and minds - opens us to new possibilities - gives hope - that the need goes wider than Africa?

Thank you Matthew Parris. Don't always agree with you but always respect your comment.

AH, Leeds UK,

So religious fundamentalism is the solution to Africa's problems. How stupid of people not to have realised it before.

colin craig, Stratford, UK

As a non-religious Jew who has lived in South Africa all my life, I can only say that Matthew Parris is 100% right.

There is a real difference between African Christians and non-Christians. Whatever way you choose to explain it, it's a fact that Christianity is highly beneficial in Africa.

Mark, Johannesburg, South Africa

Well written Matthew, honest and valid points! Simply pouring in aid money alone, however well meaning, is a large part of Africa's problems sadly. Christianity changes hearts.

Chris M, Adelaide, Australia

I loved the part about the mountain.
But the REASON for climbing it.

for the christian and the jew
the reason is to discover something new.
Or perhaps to gain a new view of Gods Creation.
Or maybe just plain old curiosity.

Either way christianity does open up the spirit and the mind

jcila, auburn, usa

Exactly Mr Parris - this is what atheists don't get. If you're poor & have nothing in this life you need a moral compass & hope for something after. I've seen the same thing in Thailand & the Philippines - if the world were full of atheists it would be anarchy, survival of the fittest & sod the rest

MGG, Auckland, NZ

A post-Christian society can have many of the benefits of a Christian one, but you can't go from zero to post-Christian, you have to actually pass through faith.

Also, I'd argue that, over time, the Reformation also influenced the Catholic church in a positive way.

Mike Steinberg, New York, USA

Perhaps London's MBeale has a point: maybe religions like Christianity Islam are a step on an evolutionary path towards individual freedom, as long as the idea of personal responsibility is not tossed aside, as seems in much of the West. Does this explain historical mass conversions 400-1200 CE?

Leonard Colquhoun, Launceston 7250, Australia

As long as the Missionaries gave all their wealth to the poor on becoming Born Again Christians then they will have the backing of God and do a good job. And can we have some Saints in the UK as well please Father!

Andy Kadir-Buxton, Hatfield, UK

The Truth will set you free! An 'African' colleague recently commented that God was in Africa before the 'White' man arrived. Indeed. However, I responded, it was the much maligned missionaries who brought the knowledge of Jesus and so Christianity. (The colleague is a woman priest.)

Andre Hattingh, Bloemfontein, South Africa

Am reading "The Shadow of the Sun" by Ryszard Kapuscinski at the moment. He describes the African tribal collectivist mentality in a similar way: the fatalism, the passivity, the eternal waiting, clientelism.

David, London, England

This thing, "something to hold on to" is available and works for anyone who chooses to believe in God rather than whatever else it is they choose to believe in. It aint just limited to any particular group or individual. Maybe not fashionable but it is available and never too late for everyone!

David B, Burnley, England

Which of these two options seems more accurate. The problems in Africa are due to 1) corrupt politicans putting foreign aid money in their pockets and using it to suppress their populations or 2) the lack of "individuality" of tribal people and their need for Christianity?

Hector, Rockhampton, Queensland

Balderdash. Missionaries should never have entered Africa -or any other country - in the first place, disrupting culture on a devastating scale

I say this in honour of the millions killed and traditions abolished by the Holy cross and the white habits.

Oh, those Brits will never learn !

robert , vancouver, bc

At the same time, I've seen Christian efforts that make sure the kids can sing every hymn, but never get around to teaching the orphans how to farm the available land. That's not that common, but it does happen; a primary lesson needs to be God helps those that help themselves.

Mike O, DFW, Texas, US

Let me get this right - you advocate people having christian faith yet refrain from doing so yourself. Is faith just for 'little people' who are easily taken in and inspired and not for thinking intellectuals like yourself, therefore?

tracey, sydney, australia

Thank you, Mr. Parris, for being so honest with yourself and with your readers.

John Patterson, Hoima, Uganda

The missionary/explorer David Livingstone, after all his years preaching Christianity in Africa made ONE convert and then only for 6 months because he, the convert, could not, could not limit himself by only cohabiting with one wife.

jwd, Perth, Western Australia, Australla

Nodding my head in agreement but, scratching my head over your honesty? Do you have any idea of the criticism you're going to get for this article?

Ian McIntyre, Southampton, England

Superb. Whether or not God exists there is clear evidence that Christianity is beneficial in evolutionary terms. Dawkins's ranting is a scientific travestry.

NBeale, London, England

I praise God for Matthew Parris's wonderful prose - and for his openness to thoughts he'd rather not have. Long may his pen flow!

James Irish, Guangzhou, China

Excellent, Mr. Parris.

God works in mysterious ways.

Colin Miles, Charlotte NC, USA

As someone who has read Mr. Parris many times, I think this was one of his best column's ever. Not because I agree or not with what he wrote, but because it came from his heart. Well done Mr. Parris, well done.

Ed Small, Greenville, North Carolina, usa

I wish some of the American evangelists currently infesting China's NW Xinjiang Province would go to Africa, where they might be able to do some good.

Pete, Urumqi, China

By their works shall you know them.

Kevin Beach, Crawley, England

I frequently disagree with Mr. Paris' views but this article elucidates a deep and troubling truth - in fact the glaring gap in Dawkin's treatise in favour of atheism. Has the world developed a belief system not based on a falsehood (i.e. a God) but that can still enable a society to flourish?

IAN, STRATFORD, UK

The negativity in african fundamental christianity is poison and I live it everyday flip the coin and tell me that story.

John Dough, London,

I think MP has a point in that money will never cure Africa's ills - it will rather exacerbate them in the present circumstances. However religion is likely to increase passivity, leaving the corrupt free to take more. Look at the Philippines, as an example, where religion facilitates corruption.

Billy Barnett, HK,

So since only post reformation Christianity applies? The direct to God, Evangelical flavor? I assume you think that Catholicism is still an evil in Africa? If I'd only know all these years that I was enslaving people by putting money in the missions box....I thought was feeding starving children.

Gerald Joyce, Chicago, USA.

I was born in Nyasaland, too. I am delighted to hear of good works but fear that things are just a bit more complex than Matthew thinks.

How, for example, does he view decades of Catholic teaching against contraception (i,e use of condoms)?

Geoffrey Morton-Haworth, London,

My parents are African and i speak 4 African languages,i was born in the U.K and i've lived in Europe,America & Africa.
Africa's problem is unique and is a problem of the individual.
Governments,Policies,Laws,Religions all come and go but the mindset is a very hard thing to change in Africa.

Anthony O, London, U.K

Mr. Parris must be praised for his insight and honesty. A personal relationship with God is life-changing. "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." John 8:36."And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32. And check out John 3:16,17,18.

Terry L. Walker, Ladson, SC / USA

As a fellow atheist well traveled and well worked in E. Africa, I'd say Parris has pretty well nailed it.

Jeff Hatcher, Boxford, USA

Superb article, excellent insight and unbiased commentary. Wow - written by an athesit who isn't entirely blind...I'm impressed. If more athesits were as open as the author, they would gain more respect.

Annie C, Peterborough, UK

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Matthew Parris joined The Times as parliamentary sketchwriter in 1988, a role he held until 2001. He had formerly worked for the Foreign Office and been a Conservative MP from 1979-86. He has published many books on travel and politics and an autobiography, Chance Witness, for which he won the 2004 Orwell Prize. His diary appears in The Times on Thursdays, and his Opinion column on Saturdays

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As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God

Missionaries, not aid money, are the solution to Africa's biggest problem - the crushing passivity of the people's mindset

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