Eucharistic Communion and Rituals of Communion in Igbo Culture: An Integrative Study of Liturgy, Faith, and Culture

This book explores the relationship between culture and religion, particularly in the Catholic Church's efforts to inculturate the gospel message in diverse cultures. It highlights the importance of understanding the global call to unity and interconnectivity in the world today. The study of traditional communion rituals in Igbo culture, such as Emume Iwa Ọjị, Emume Iri Ji Ọhụrụ, and Ịgba Orikọ, establishes the theological and relational aspects of both the traditional rituals and the Christian understanding of Eucharistic communion.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2020
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

This captivating book delves into the intricate interplay of culture and religion, shedding light on how cultural expressions are intricately linked with religious expressions. While the Catholic Church acknowledges the vast cultural diversity within its membership, it remains committed to inculturating the gospel message in these diverse cultures, aiming to enhance the expression, experience, and embodiment of Catholicism in the modern world. The realm of relational and theological expressions of Eucharistic communion experiences a remarkable enrichment when Christians from different races and cultures come together to understand the global call for unity and interconnectedness. By bridging the clear theological and relational aspects of Eucharistic communion with the traditional rituals of communion expressed in Igbo culture, this book offers a profound exploration that enriches both the encountered faith and the lived culture.

Among the rituals of communion in Igbo tradition that are studied in this book, three stand out as prevalent and cherished by the Igbo people. These rituals, namely Emume Iwa Ọjị (Kola nut Ritual), Emume Iri Ji Ọhụrụ (New Yam Festival), and Ịgba Orikọ (Ritual Meal of Reconciliation), continue to hold significant importance in their daily lives. These rituals not only shape the well-being of present and future generations of Igbo people but also serve as pillars of their cultural heritage.

This comprehensive study of liturgy, faith, and culture establishes a profound connection between the traditional rituals of communion in Igbo culture and the Christian understanding of Eucharistic communion. By integrating these two realms, this book endeavors to create a truly inculturated Eucharistic theology that resonates with the hearts and minds of both the Igbo people and the broader Christian community.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of theology and cultural studies, providing a deep understanding of the dynamics between culture and religion. It highlights the importance of inculturation, which is essential for the flourishing of Catholicism in a diverse and globalized world. Through its exploration of the rituals of communion in Igbo culture and their relationship with Eucharistic communion, this book offers a rich tapestry of insights that will inspire and inform scholars, practitioners, and believers alike.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 225 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433175145
Edition number: New ed