Ubuntu

Ubuntu is an African way of seeing the world-and the people in it-as an intricate web of relationships. Those who have embraced the spirit of Ubuntu understand that they only come to know themselves as they weave their own lives into the lives of others. Rather than the Western ideal of "rugged individualism," Ubuntu encourages harmony and interdependence among individuals, communities-and even nations and the world at large.

Michael Battle, former dean of Virginia Theological Seminary, now serves as theologian of the Cathedral Center of St. Paul in Los Angeles and as rector of Our Saviour Parish in San Gabriel, California. Ordained by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, he lived and worked for two years as a parish priest in South Africa. A well-known writer, speaker, and retreat leader, his ministry covers the globe and focuses on Christian non-violence, spirituality, and African Church studies.