Thapelo Ya Sephiri: A Study of Secret Prayer Groups in Soweto

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Periodical article

Title:	Thapelo Ya Sephiri: A Study of Secret Prayer Groups in Soweto
Authors:	Schutte, A.G. Moloantoa, E.
Year:	1972
Periodical:	African Studies
Volume:	31
Issue:	4
Pages:	245-260
Language:	English
Geographic term:	South Africa
Subjects:	prayer Calvinist churches Religion and Witchcraft Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1080/00020187208707387
Abstract:	Many church members of the Dutch Reformed Church belong to secret prayer groups. They specialize in healing of the sick through prayer to Christian and ancestral spirits and through possession by them. The groups are organized in a strict hierarchy. Members on the higher levels may communicate with Christ and the Apostles, whereas members on the lower levels, may only be possessed by ancestor spirits. In Soweto (South-West Johannesburg) there are some thirty-five groups. Notes, tables, diagram.