In the politically charged climate leading up to the 2024 elections, many anticipated titles from Religion News Service (RNS) delve deeply into issues at the intersection of faith and politics.
Authors like Amanda Tyler and Matthew D. Taylor investigate the growing dynamics of Christian nationalism, while Joshua Leifer offers insights into how the relationship between American Judaism and Zionism has transformed over time.
These writers explore various players and organizations they believe are merging religious convictions with political agendas, raising crucial questions for contemporary society.
Historical Context and Modern Challenges
Some books take a step back in history to shed light on current challenges.
For example, they revisit the sanctuary movement and highlight anti-racist Christian figures, showcasing how historical political maneuvers have often divided economically vulnerable communities.
Eliza Griswold’s work captures the struggles of an evangelical congregation navigating internal discord post-2020, and Greg Epstein likens the rise of artificial intelligence to a new kind of faith, warning against placing unwarranted reverence in technology.
Featured Books
- “The Widening of God’s Mercy” by Christopher and Richard Hays
This collaborative effort between Richard Hays, a respected New Testament scholar among conservative Christians, and his son Christopher, challenges traditional perceptions of divine grace.They propose that God is not only dynamic and personal but also inclusive of LGBTQ individuals, a premise stirring significant conversation within Christian circles.
- “Sanctuary People: Faith-Based Organizing in Latina/o Communities” by Gina Pérez
Pérez chronicles the growth of sanctuary practices within faith communities, illustrating how these groups have evolved to stand by victims of police violence and those displaced by natural disasters.Her extensive four-year study weaves together local initiatives in Ohio with broader national contexts, particularly in light of the challenges facing Latino/a communities today.
- “Tablets Shattered: The End of an American Jewish Century and the Future of Jewish Life” by Joshua Leifer
Leifer argues that in American Judaism, Zionism has increasingly eclipsed the core values of the faith itself.He suggests that mainstream Jewish leaders have shifted their focus toward unwavering support for Israel while liberal movements struggle to present a compelling alternative narrative.
- “Black Liturgies: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Staying Human” by Cole Arthur Riley
Confronting the inadequacies of existing liturgies in addressing contemporary injustices, Riley creates her own prayers and poems that speak directly to Black experiences.Her innovative expressions resonate widely, highlighting a collective desire for spiritual resources that honor marginalized identities.
- “Circle of Hope: A Reckoning with Love, Power, and Justice in an American Church” by Eliza Griswold
Griswold’s engaging narrative highlights a Philadelphia evangelical church grappling with profound internal conflicts as it strives to live out the teachings of Jesus amidst significant societal discord.Through extensive research, she captures the church’s struggles to reconcile theological differences and socio-political challenges, inviting readers to explore paths toward renewal.
- “Tech Agnostic: How Technology Became the World’s Most Powerful Religion, and Why It Desperately Needs a Reformation” by Greg Epstein
In this thought-provoking work, Epstein posits that technology, particularly artificial intelligence, has emerged as a dominant form of faith, complete with its own rituals and leaders.He advocates for a critical, human-centered approach to technology, emphasizing the importance of engaging with it in ways that genuinely serve humanity.
- “The Violent Take It by Force: The Christian Movement That is Threatening Our Democracy” by Matthew D. Taylor
Taylor delves into the New Apostolic Reformation, a sect within the religious right that perceives Donald Trump as a divinely chosen figure in a spiritual conflict.His in-depth analysis reveals the group’s growing influence on American politics, particularly during the tumultuous events surrounding January 6.
- “As Long As You Need: Permission to Grieve” by J.S. Park
Park presents a compassionate exploration of grief, urging individuals to truly embrace their emotions rather than hastily moving on.His insights, shaped by his experience as an interfaith chaplain, offer valuable support for those navigating loss.
- “White Poverty: How Exposing Myths About Race and Class Can Reconstruct American Democracy” by William J. Barber II and Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove
In this collaborative work, Rev. Barber II emphasizes the crucial need for solidarity among marginalized groups in the quest for improved living conditions, directly challenging divisive political narratives. - “Dictates of Conscience: From Mormon High Priest to My New Life as a Woman” by Laurie Lee Hall
Hall’s memoir chronicles her journey of transition following her leadership role within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reflecting deeply on matters of identity and faith. - “Ghosted: An American Story” by Nancy French
In this candid narrative, French takes us through her experiences in the realm of political ghostwriting and her subsequent discovery of her own voice, even as she faced ostracism from former allies due to her critical views on Donald Trump. - “The Spirit of Justice: True Stories of Faith, Race, and Resistance” by Jemar Tisby
Tisby’s work highlights the often-overlooked stories of Christian activists who have bravely resisted racism, showcasing their contributions to the fight for equality. - “How to End Christian Nationalism” by Amanda Tyler
A hands-on guide, this book elucidates the complex landscape of Christian nationalism and provides practical strategies for individuals seeking to confront it both in their personal lives and through political action. - “The Contemporary Black Church: The New Dynamics of African American Religion” by Jason Shelton
Shelton investigates the shifting dynamics within the Black church, shedding light on its significance for advocates of social justice and community empowerment.
Continued Exploration
As the year progresses, RNS remains dedicated to exploring the vital connections between faith and pressing societal issues, spanning areas such as immigration, education, and political discourse.
If you find resonance in this overview or appreciate the breadth of our articles, please consider supporting our ongoing mission.
Source: Religionnews
