Book Review

So There I Was ... in Africa  
         

This review was written by Derek Lamson, of West Hills Friends Church in Portland Oregon. He is a good friend of mine and we were in Burundi at the same time for two months in 2007, but I did not solicit this review.

This is the original, a version of this appears in this month's Western Friend.  WF is a fine Quaker publication. 

Derek goes a bit over the top here. But that's just his charism.

  So There I Was…  In Africa, by Peggy Senger Parsons, is an introduction to several fascinating subjects.  One is Burundi, a tiny overpopulated African appalachia so far off of our maps – literal and otherwise – that it might as well be Oz, for all we know.  Peg’s twenty-eight pungent sketches, compiled from ministry trips from 2003 to 2007, are vivid correctives, detailing the strength, beauty, humor, and profound spirituality of this people and land.  Like the Burundians, Peg looks squarely at the genocide, the nagging confusing civil wars, ongoing deforestation, poverty.  Like the Burundians she also witnesses to the country’s youthful energy, hope, and eagerness to do better.  You will like it that she never condescends to them. 

              David Niyonzima is central to this collection, as he should be. Peg and David partnered in bringing simple effective PTSD therapies to help lay the ghosts of Burundi’s violent recent past.  It was why she went in the first place.  Do read about David’s pilgrimage in his book, (Unlocking Horns, Forgiveness and Reconciliation in Burundi, Barclay Press).  Get more of the man’s walk with God, his work and ministry, his incredible church, and cool family, from Peg’s book. 

              Finally, these articles are great introductions to Peg herself.  I probably should take this opportunity to scotch a little rumor going around:  sorry, there is no Peggy Senger Parsons action figure doll.  I know, I’ve heard it too, all about the motorcycle accessory, matching leathers, etc., but there’s no truth in it.  The simple truth is that the woman is courage in boots, and she is all about encouraging others.  The essence of her irresistibly fun energy is that she is grounded in Christ.  I believe she is one of the most important Quaker ministers at work today.  Read this book and see why.