Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I borrowed this text from the author for research, and it was so engrossing I forgot it wasn't mine and began scribbling notes! Now I have to purchase a new copy to turn back in, but I don't mind at all. This book belongs on my shelf and will certainly be helpful in the future. I am neither black nor Catholic, but I recommend this book to any self-proclaimed Christian who partakes in American culture.
This book is not an attack, nor is it a half-hearted apology. In the face of all the various scandal the Church has been going through in the years, racism has still gone unaddressed. Here, Nilson explains what racism is today (different from bigotry) and how it persists in the academic structures of Theology. On the lay level, the teachings and education of the priests reflects on the congregation, and if black theology, black history, black suffering is forgotten or ignored, it filters down to the congregation.
Nilson takes care with terminology and is both eloquent and concise. The Catholic "preferential option for the poor" could also be known as "preferential option for the black" where "black" means anyone ignored or oppressed by society. In the US, the "black experience" is largely African American, but is not limited to skin color (as can be seen by the backlash when non-blacks fight for African American reparations). Black history and black suffering has much to teach White America about Christ, and we would do well to listen.
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