The Republic of Suriname is one of the most culturally diverse countries on the
continent of South America, situated on the North Eastern coast of South
America. It possesses culturally rich districts and is a country that is very proud
country of its heritage. There are nine Maroon tribes, who are descendants of
African slaves who ran away from the plantations after being taken away from
Africa during the slave-trading era. The Maroons have preserved their
traditional way of life, and are fully engaged in the socio-economic development
of the Republic of Suriname; in particular, it’s interior. The Saramaccan
Maroons are at a spiritual crossroads. This thesis looks at “The Problems and
Possible Solutions in Communicating the Gospel to the Saramaccan People of
the Upper Suriname River.” This thesis will discuss the problems faced by
missionaries. Among other things, this thesis will research some of the practices
used by missionaries, in view of the beliefs and cultural practices of the
Maroons’ society. It will suggest ways in which the gospel can be
communicated effectively to the Saramaccan Maroons. The thesis looks at the
local Churches and their role in working amongst the Saramaccan Maroons and
considers the role of Christian workers amongst Maroons. The thesis considers
the place of a theology of mission in the modern approach to communicating
the gospel to the Saramaccan Maroons. The thesis addresses the issues of
adequate spiritual, linguistic, and cultural preparation for missionaries, and
argues that, with appropriate strategies, foreign missionaries can indeed play a
part, alongside local missionaries in the task of gospel proclamation.