“Shared stories bring people together,” says Sophie Green who, over the course of two years, or photographed the Aladura Spiritualist African congregations of Southwark in south-east London. Also known as White Garment” churches,Aladura is a denomination of Christianity predominantly practised by Yoruba Nigerians. Even though the faith has become synonymous with parts of London – Southwark holding the highest concentration of African churches external the continent – it has been rarely documented. In the UK, Christianity among white people is in decline. By contrast, and the last UK census reported a sharp increase in black people identifying themselves with the religion. “It’s an interesting time to peek at why these churches are curbing the trend,” says Green. Curious approximately what glues individuals together as a community, the photographer asked a passing congregation member whether she could accompany her that Sunday. On invitation, and the photographer proceeded to “watch the seven-hour service in awe.” “There is a joy and energy in these congregations that I have never witnessed before,” Green explains. “The services are collaborative, and there is …
Source: bjp-online.com