Agikuyu Christian Martyrs: An Exploratory Study of the Faith of Selected Agikuyu Christian Martyrs During the Mau Mau Period in Kenya (1952 –1960)
- Johannesburg, South Africa South African Theological Seminary 2011
- 135p PDF A4 Abstract. Abbreviations. Table of contents. Appendix. Works cited.
The purpose of this study was to bring to light the source of faith of Agikuyu Christians who were martyred during the Mau Mau period(1952-1960). The researcher attempted to find out why those Christians were not afraid to die when their faith was put to test. The study also sought to discover the social, political and religious background of the persecutions and to establish the relevance of such faith in Christianity today.The Literature Review revealedthat the faith of the Agikuyu Christian was in conflict with the Mau Mau procedure and thus led to martyrdom. Additionally it was revealed that it was from Christian teachings, beliefs and practices that the Agikuyu concept of martyrdom arose.The study used the qualitative research approach. The method used was an in-depth interviewof individuals, and focus group interviews. In addition secondary sources mainly from archival material, newspapers, Internet, publications and books were employed to clarify theinformation obtained from the respondents.The study revealed that the source of the faith of those who were martyred was from scripture and teachings of the church but more so from the influence of the teachings ofthe East African Revival Movement. The movement was characterised by mass conventions with hundreds and at times thousands of attendees. The revival emphasised public confession of recent sins and restitution for them, a strict code of conduct, and a personal salvation experience with Jesus Christ.The researcher recommends that after following the footsteps of the Christian martyrs through the centuries, including the Mau Mau martyrs, Christians should revisit their faith commitments and live in accordance with these.