In the last four decades; desegregation has revolutionized almost every aspect of life in the United States: schools; businesses; government offices; even entertainment. But there is one area that remains largely untouched; and that is the church. Now comes a major new call for multiracial congregations in every possible setting--a call that is surprisingly controversial; even in the twenty-first century.In United By Faith; a multiracial team of sociologists and a minister of the Church of God argue that multiracial Christian congregations offer a key to opening the still-locked door between the races in the United States. They note; however; that a belief persists--even in African-American and Latino churches--that racial segregation is an acceptable; even useful practice. The authors examine this question from biblical; historical; and theological perspectives to make their case. They explore the long history of interracialism in the church; with specific examples of multiracial congregations in the United States. They cite examples ranging from the abolitionist movement to an astonishing 1897 camp meeting in Alabama that brought together hundreds of whites and blacks literally into the same tent. Here; too; is a critical account of the theological arguments in favor of racial separation; as voiced in the African-American; Latino; Asian-American; Native-American; and white contexts. The authors respond in detail; closing with a foundation for a theology suited to sustaining multiracial congregations over time. Faith can be the basis for healing; but too often Christian faith has been a field for injury and division. In this important new book; readers will glimpse a way forward; a path toward once again making the church the basis for racial reconciliation in our still-splintered nation.
#1289726 in Books Jay P Dolan 2003-11-27 2003-11-27Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 5.30 x .80 x 8.00l; .79 #File Name: 0195168852320 pagesIn Search of an American Catholicism A History of Religion and Culture in Tension
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. is not that good for the advancement of the catholic churchBy thomas mcgouldrickI could tell half way through the book that he had a liberal leaning. He seemed to find fault with what he called european immigrant version of Catholicism. That is; devout beliefs;respect and admiration for traditional understanding of the practice of faith; respect for nuns; priest etc. is not that good for the advancement of the catholic church. That the church had to modernize and accept current trends; which seems to not have worked so far. Yet on the other hand tried to promote or embrace the Hispanic or Mexican traditions of Catholic practice along with African American versions as a way to move forward and improve the church. I found it a contradiction that one ethnic perspective ( i.e. European ) was a detriment to Catholicism in the U.S. but Hispanic or African American ethnic perspective should be embraced as a way the church should proceed forward. My own life experience has greatly benefited from being raised in that European Immigrant perspective; and I have seen nothing but the deterioration of interest and practice in modern america of Catholicism.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Very easy readBy Paul W BolinI read this book as part of my American Catholicism class for a master's in theology program. It is enjoyable and very easy to read; even I think for people who have no formal training in theology. It essentially chronicles the balances/struggles between the laity and the hierarchy; the Catholic experience in America; and the unique path Catholicism took from being a tiny sect in colonial America to the largest religious organization in the country. It is a good read for anyone looking to get a basic understanding of how the Church in America has gotten to where it is; and the challenges that face it. The casual reader could easily finish this book in a week if that.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Francisco PenelaAwesome book!
