Soweto … But God!

Soweto … But God! by Clarke L. Gittens, published in 1978 by Dorothea Mission, is a deeply personal and spiritual account of life in Soweto amid the turmoil of apartheid. Gittens, a pastor and community leader, shares stories of faith, struggle, resilience and hope, describing how residents — particularly young people — navigated the daily injustices, revolts, social strife and moral challenges of township life. The title expresses a sense of defiant hope: “But God” becomes a refrain of spiritual trust and resistance in the face of adversity.

Gittens’s writing is both pastoral and narrative: he uses parables, testimonies and sermons to frame the experiences of his congregation and of himself, reflecting on violence, education, faith, and the aspiration for a better future. He does not shy away from the grief and anger of the oppressed, but his faith-driven reflections offer solace, direction and the conviction that spiritual renewal can inspire social change. The book includes accounts of church gatherings, youth fellowship, missionary efforts and moments of powerful communal solidarity.

For readers of South African religious history, social justice literature, or memoirs of faith in black communities, Soweto … But God! is a compelling and uplifting work. It documents a critical era through the lens of Christian ministry and grassroots activism, making it of enduring value to historians, theologians, and anyone interested in how faith sustained resistance under the shadow of apartheid.