Jesus and Recommendation 32
In 2024, we began with a powerful series entitled “Jesus and Recommendation 32”, which addresses how Christian theology has historically been misused to dehumanise African peoples and demonise their traditional beliefs and practices.
Get the full three-part series and deepen your understanding with all talks, Q&As, and reading lists
in one complete bundle.
What is Recommendation 32?
The Church Commissioners of the Church of England published a report on their historic links with Transatlantic Chattel Slavery following an investigation initiated in 2019. Their response included the proposal to set aside £100 million - 1% of their fund - to invest in a new in-perpetuity investment fund dedicated to justice, healing, and repair. They commissioned an Independent Oversight Group to provide recommendations on how they should next act.
One particular recommendation of the Independent Oversight Group has attracted considerable attention and concern - Recommendation 32:
‘We call for the Church of England to apologise publicly for denying that Black Africans are made in the image of God and for seeking to destroy diverse African traditional religious belief systems.
This act of repair should intentionally facilitate ongoing and new sociological, historical and theological research into spiritual traditions in Africa and the diaspora thereby enabling a fresh dialogue between African traditional belief systems and the Gospel. This work should reach beyond theological institutions and be presented in ways that will enable all Africans, especially descendants of the enslaved, to discover the varied belief systems and spiritual practices of their forebears, and their efficacy. We recommend that the Commissioners work with all faith-based communities to which descendants of African chattel enslavement belong.’
-Independent Oversight Group
SPEAKERS
Meet Our Inspiring CTT Speakers
Dr Carlton Turner
Recommendation 32 and The Gospel ‘Good News’ of Jesus Christ
Explore how the ‘Good News of Jesus Christ was misappropriated to undermine African identity and spirituality. How might Recommendation 32 help us revisit our approach to mission, evangelism and the Gospel?
Click below to purchase the recorded talk, Q&A, and reading list.
Dr Harvey Kwiyani
Recommendation 32 and African Traditional Religions
Discover the breadth of African belief systems. This session unpacks the complexities of Recommendation 32 and the centrality of a holistic understanding of African spirituality.
Click below to purchase the recorded talk, Q&A, and reading list.
Rev’d Canon Jarel Robinson-Brown
Recommendation 32 and the Early Church in Africa
Uncover the often-overlooked history of the Early Church in Africa and its foundational influence on Christian thought and practice. This session reveals how African leaders, thinkers, and communities shaped the development of Christianity and why this vital narrative has been obscured over time.
Click below to purchase the recorded talk, Q&A, and reading list.
Get the full three-part series and deepen your understanding with all talks, Q&As, and reading lists
in one complete bundle.
Discover Inspiring Conversations on our Community Theology Thursdays Podcast
Missed a session or want to go deeper?
Our Community Theology Thursdays podcast revisits key moments, big questions, and reflections from our speakers - plus thoughtful follow-up inspired by the conversations in the room. Listen in, reflect, and continue the journey with us.
Join our Community Conversations
and Support Us
Community Theology Thursdays is a shared space shaped by thoughtful speakers, honest questions, and the people who show up. Whether you’re attending, donating, or simply curious, your presence matters.
Together, we’re creating something sacred and open to all.
get involved
If you believe in broadening access to theology and thoughtful faith, please consider donating to help us sustain and grow this work.
Questions or Ideas?
Whether you have a question, want to get involved, or are thinking about bringing a group along — just reach out.