Introduction to African Traditional Religion (ATR)

In this brief article, Ken Banda provides an excellent overview of African traditional religions (ATR). He addresses it under three main headings;

• Reasons for African Pastors to Study ATR
• Fundamental Beliefs in ATR
• Implications of ATR for the African Church

In conclusion, he says that the influence of ATR presents both challenges and opportunities for the African Church. The challenge is that syncretism is very real, and the opportunity to proclaim the supremacy of Christ over all powers and bring true transformation is important. Pastors must study ATR not to accommodate it but to confront it biblically and lead God’s people into genuine kingdom living.

This article first appeared in the Autumn 2025 (Vol. 5.4) issue of The Pastor’s Study.