Abstract:
This thesis will explore the topic of Reconciliation. In particular, how does “Reconciliation” as a new paradigm of mission engage with the Māori practice of “hohou rongo” (peace-making) among Māori communities in Aotearoa ? It analyses the writings and key insights of Fr.Robert J. Schreiter Cssp. on Reconciliation and sets them in dialogue with some key Māori voices on the topic of “hohou rongo” particularly Pā Henare Tate. It will explore if the insights and biblical reflections of Schreiter find resonance with the Māori understanding of hohou rongo. The relevance of this missiological paradigm with the Māori practice of hohou rongo will be tested and explored. It will investigate how a Western theological paradigm can be weaved together with an indigenous world-view and mutually enrich each other as well as challenge. A key question arises around the issue of forgiveness: when and how does it become part of the process of reconciliation? It will show that there are many valuable insights that can be applied to the Māori context, particularly in viewing Reconciliation as a sprituality and a “life-stance” rather than just a strategy for healing discord. There are many fruitful areas of ministry in which this paradigm can give direction and purpose to ministerial activity, particularly in caring for victims of violence and in dialogue between estranged parties. The work of ecumenical reconciliation, social reconciliation and inter-ethnic reconciliation can all find expression when this paradigm is applied within ministry to Māori communities.