The Reality of Race

Today we got some of our first exposure to the community around the retreat center.  We went into two nearby towns to purchase food and supplies for the camp.  Beyond the major things that stand out in a new country (clockwise round-abouts, signs in Afrikaans, prices listed in Rands), the one thing that really struck me today was just how deep the racial divide continues to be.  Yes, Apartheid itself has come to an end, but the cultural and socio-economical boundaries continue to create much of a divide.  I spent a lot of time today talking to Ted about the reality of racial relations here.  We talked about the fact that churches remain largely segregated, that "colored" (mixed race) and black people living in the same community might not even speak the same language, that someone like Ted who wants to minister in Phillippi must live out side of the community in a white neighborhood lest he become a target for thieves.  I am still processing these facts, but am struck with the reality that history leaves its mark.  And cognizant of the fact that the issue is far from simple: race, economics, history, theology - all are are deeply intertwined. I imagine I'll have a much deeper understanding of this complexity tomorrow after having visited Phillippi and Robben Island.