Missionaries in contemporary Melanesia : Crossroads of cultural change

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Missionaries constitute one of the major external influences upon the lives of the indigenous population of Melanesia. A primary focus of missionary efforts has been directed towards deterring Melanesians from observing and participating in traditional customs and events, while at the same time striving to replace these indigenous practices with forms of Western Christian culture and ritual. Historically, evidence exists to demonstrate the intensity and breadth of missionary attempts to discourage and eliminate traditional ceremonies, dance, dress, art forms, means of emotional expression, child-rearing practices, locations of residence, exchange systems, and even horticultural methods. Few observers are aware, however, that repressive missionary policies and actions exert a formidable presence in Papua New Guinea today. The article exammes missionary policies and behavior with respect to traditional Melanesian culture and customs, with specific reference to the remote Southern Highlands Province over the last 20 years and in the present. Field research and other documentation reveals a continuation of shortsighted and destructive missionary activity. In many cases, missionaries fail to grasp the true meaning or significance of Melanesian traditions; rather than attempt to gain a better understanding of underlying Melanesian cultural components, they direct their efforts towards repression. In general, missionaries have been successful in getting the indigenous population to subjugate their own beliefs and practices in deference to the Christian substitute. Nevertheless, this submission in the face of fiery proselytization is more indicative of a temporary cessation of traditional activities than an illustration of indigenes embracing Christianity. Field reports and observation suggest that whereas the foreign missionary may have partially fulfilled his objectives (i.e., suppression), his efforts have mainly resulted in a syncretic blend of traditional and Christian beliefs — the most dominant and pervasive element being the Melanesian's traditional metaphysical beliefs.