This books combines Black theology with dramatic, dialogical sketch material in order to produce a more accessible and democratic approach to undertaking Black theological conversation. This 'Particpative approach to Black God-talk' surmounts the seeming chasm between the academy and the church and grassroots communities. Dramatizing Theologies offers a carefully worked through methodology for undertaking Black theological discourse with poor, marginalized and disenfranchised people by means of an interactive and dynamic approach to theology in the form of drama. It is, therefore, an essential text for all those whose desire is to be in true solidarity with those who are the 'voiceless' in the world.

This book offers a comprehensive analysis of the theological challenge presented by the new post-Brexit epoch. The referendum vote for Britain to leave the European Union has led to a seismic shift in the ways in which parts of the British population view and judge their compatriots. The subsequent rise in the reported number of racially motivated incidents and the climate of vilification and negativity directed at anyone not viewed as 'authentically' British should be a matter of concern for all people. The book is comprised of a series of essays that address varying aspects of what it means to be British and the ways in which churches in Britain and the Christian faith could and should respond to a rising tide of White English nationalism. It is a provocative challenge to the all too often tolerated xenophobia, as well as the paucity of response from many church leaders in the UK. This critique is offered via the means of a prophetic, postcolonial model of Black theology that challenges the incipient sense of White entitlement and parochial 'nativism' that pervaded much of the referendum debate. The essays in this book challenge the church and wider society to ensure justice and equity for all, not just a privileged sense of entitlement for some. It will be of keen interest to any scholar of Black, political and liberation theology as well as those involved in cultural studies from a postcolonial perspective.

'What is this about colours in theology? Surely there is only one true theology - that revealed by God in the Bible And why on earth would you want a Black theology anyway?' - Emmanuel Lartey, Senior Lecturer in Pastoral Theology, University of Birmingham. Black theology as a self-named discipline and a radical form of Christian practice emerged in its present form in 1960s, in the USA. It has grown out of the experiences of Black people of the African Diaspora as they have sought to re-interpret the central ideas of Christianity in light of their experiences. But Black theology is not simply a North American affair. If Black theology can be defined as the radical re-interpretation of the revelation of God in Christ, in light of the struggles and suffering of Black existence in order that de-humanised and oppressed Black people might see in God the basis for their liberation; then there has been a form of Black theology in operation in Britain since the epoch of slavery. It is therefore, most timely that this seminal volume should come to fruition in 2007. 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade in Britain. Although there has been a Black presence in Britain since Roman times, the often troubled existence of Black people in Britain can be traced to the Elizabethan era and the influx of Black slaves from Africa and the Americas. This text seeks to outline the development of Black theology in Britain from 18th century through to our contemporary era. By means of re-investigating popular texts and previously unpublished groundbreaking material, the editors offer a comprehensive and challenging interpretation of the development of an eclectic and distinctive voice that is Black theology in Britain.

'An incredible resource, earthed in academic rigour but packed to the gills with useful exercises that have been honed by reality and experience.' Black Theology Commended as essential reading by reviewers, this insightful guide shows how Black theology makes a difference to Christian thought and practice. Full of Bible studies and practical exercises, here is a stimulating resource that encourages a new awareness of ourselves and others. This timely new edition includes a new afterword on the Black Lives Matter movement, and the difference it is making in the struggle for a society where we are all equally accepted and respected as God's children. 'Forges the wisdom of Black theology into a powerful tool for change - not just to the way we think but to how we live.' Elaine Graham, Research Professor of Practical Theology, University of Chester 'Theological institutions, ordinary people, preachers, worship leaders and house group facilitators should wrestle with this little volume.' Methodist Recorder

Black Theology, Slavery and Contemporary Christianity explores the legacy of slavery in Black theological terms. Challenging the dominant approaches to the history and legacy of slavery in the British Empire, the contributors show that although the 1807 act abolished the slave trade, it did not end racism, notions of White supremacy, or the demonization of Blackness, Black people and Africa. This interdisciplinary study draws on biblical studies, history, missiology and Black theological reflection, exploring the strengths and limitations of faith as the framework for abolitionist rhetoric and action. This Black theological approach to the phenomenon of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and the institution of slavery draws on contributions from Africa, the Caribbean, North America and Europe.

Black theology as a discipline emerged in 1960s America, growing out of the experiences of Black people of the African Diaspora as they sought to re-interpret the central ideas of Christianity in light of struggle and oppression. However, a form of Black theology has been present in Britain since the time of slavery. 'Black Theology in Britain' offers the first comprehensive survey of Black theology, tracing its development in Britain from the eighteenth century to today. The essays cover a wide range of topics: Black Liberation; drama as a medium for Black theology; the perspective of Black women; Black theology in the pulpit and pastoral care; and the work of Robert Beckford and Anthony Reddie. 'Black Theology in Britain' is a key resource for students of British history, cultural studies, Black theology, and religious studies.

The essays in Working Against the Grain are linked in their attempt to outline a new vision for a liberative model of Christianity built upon the insights of Black Theology.Christianity has long remained something of a conundrum for Black and other oppressed peoples of the world. This global phenomenon has been both the cause of violence and oppression on the subjugated, dispossessed and marginalised peoples of the world, whilst conversely, being a source for counter-oppressive struggle. Black Christianity has sought to respond to the vicissitudes of life by seeking solace in the redemptive figure of Christ who has accompanied Black people in their ongoing struggles for human dignity and liberation. Black theology, working from within a largely Christian framework has sought to offer the much needed tools for this process of re-imaging human life, death and possibilities for a new world. This radical challenge has appeared of late, to have 'run into the sand' as the continued rise of charismatic, conservative neo-Pentecostalism seems to have displaced whatever foothold Black theology once had in the theology and working practices of predominantly Diasporan African churches and faith communities.Working Against the Grain argues that a re-imagined Black theology can enable Christianity in particular, and Black Christian faith in general to recapture the radical intent of this globalized religious framework. It offers a radical Black theology that simultaneously seeks to empower marginalized and disenfranchised Black people alongside the need to challenge and inspire White power to see and act differently. Given its roots in education and theology this book is an essential text for allthose interested in the pursuit of racial justice and other forms of anti-oppressive practice, both inside the church and beyond it. By attempting to re-imagine Black theology, Working Against the Grain begins to sketch a tentative terrain for the mapping of a new form of Christianity for the 21st century. A form of Christian faith built upon the insights of Black theology.

This books combines Black theology with dramatic, dialogical sketch material in order to produce a more accessible and democratic approach to undertaking Black theological conversation. This 'Particpative approach to Black God-talk' surmounts the seeming chasm between the academy and the church and grassroots communities. Dramatizing Theologies offers a carefully worked through methodology for undertaking Black theological discourse with poor, marginalized and disenfranchised people by means of an interactive and dynamic approach to theology in the form of drama. It is, therefore, an essential text for all those whose desire is to be in true solidarity with those who are the 'voiceless' in the world.

This book offers a comprehensive analysis of the theological challenge presented by the new post-Brexit epoch. The referendum vote for Britain to leave the European Union has led to a seismic shift in the ways in which parts of the British population view and judge their compatriots. The subsequent rise in the reported number of racially motivated incidents and the climate of vilification and negativity directed at anyone not viewed as 'authentically' British should be a matter of concern for all people. The book is comprised of a series of essays that address varying aspects of what it means to be British and the ways in which churches in Britain and the Christian faith could and should respond to a rising tide of White English nationalism. It is a provocative challenge to the all too often tolerated xenophobia, as well as the paucity of response from many church leaders in the UK. This critique is offered via the means of a prophetic, postcolonial model of Black theology that challenges the incipient sense of White entitlement and parochial 'nativism' that pervaded much of the referendum debate. The essays in this book challenge the church and wider society to ensure justice and equity for all, not just a privileged sense of entitlement for some. It will be of keen interest to any scholar of Black, political and liberation theology as well as those involved in cultural studies from a postcolonial perspective.

Black Theology, Slavery and Contemporary Christianity explores the legacy of slavery in Black theological terms. Challenging the dominant approaches to the history and legacy of slavery in the British Empire, the contributors show that although the 1807 act abolished the slave trade, it did not end racism, notions of White supremacy, or the demonization of Blackness, Black people and Africa. This interdisciplinary study draws on biblical studies, history, missiology and Black theological reflection, exploring the strengths and limitations of faith as the framework for abolitionist rhetoric and action. This Black theological approach to the phenomenon of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and the institution of slavery draws on contributions from Africa, the Caribbean, North America and Europe.

It is rarely the case that an intellectual movement can point to an individual figure as its founder. Yet James Cone has been heralded as the acknowledged genius and the creator of black theology. In nearly 50 years of published work, James Cone redefined the intent of academic theology and defined a whole new movement in intellectual thought. In Introducing James H. Cone Anthony Reddie offers us an accessible and engaging assessment of Cone's legacy, from his first book Black Theology and Black Power in 1969 through to his final intellectual autobiography I Said I wasn't Gonna Tell Nobody in 2018. It is an indispensable field guide to perhaps the greatest black theologian of recent times.

Beginning with a 'Street Nativity Play' that didn't end as planned, and finishing with an open-ended conversation in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, "Being Interrupted" locates an institutionally-anxious Church of England within the wider contexts of divisions of race and class in 'the ruins of empire', alongside ongoing gender inequalities, the marginalization of children, and catastrophic ecological breakdown. In the midst of this bleak picture, Al Barrett and Ruth Harley open a door to a creative disruption of the status quo, 'from the outside, in': the in-breaking of the wild reality of the 'Kin-dom' of God. Through careful and unsettling readings in Mark's gospel, alongside stories from a multicultural outer estate in east Birmingham, they paint a vivid picture of an 'alternative economy' for the Church's life and mission, which begins with transformative encounters with neighbours and strangers at the edges of our churches, our neighbourhoods and our imaginations, and offers new possibilities for repentance and resurrection.

Christianity has been both the cause of oppression among Black communities and a source of liberation. Black Christianity has sought solace in the redemptive figure of Christ in its struggle for human dignity and freedom. 'Working Against the Grain' addresses the displacement of Black theology in Diasporan African churches by charismatic and conservative neo-Pentecostalism. The essays present a radical Black theology that empowers disenfranchised Black people whilst challenging White power to see and act differently. 'Working Against the Grain' is an essential text for all those interested in the pursuit of racial justice and other forms of anti-oppressive practice, both inside the church and beyond it.

What happens when ‘go, make disciples’ meets ‘Black Lives Matter’? Arising from the Council for World Mission’s “Legacies of Slavery” project, this book offers an unapologetic exploration of Christian Mission and its history, and the ways in which this legacy has unleashed notions of White supremacy, systemic racism and global capitalism on the world. Contributors reflect on the past and consider the future of world mission in an age of renewed understandings of empire and its impact. Contributors include Mike Higton, David Clough, Eve Parker, James Butler, Cathy Ross, Jione Havea, Peniel Rajkumar, Victoria Turner, Carol Troupe, Michael Jagessar, Paul Weller, Jill Marsh, Kevin Ellis, Rachel Starr, Kevin Snyman, Al Barrett and Ruth Harley.

After the 2008 election and 2012 reelection of Barack Obama as US president and the 1994 election of Nelson Mandela as the first of several blacks to serve as South Africa's president, many within the two countries have declared race to be irrelevant. For contributors to this volume, the presumed demise of race may be premature. Given continued racial disparities in income, education, and employment, as well as in perceptions of problems and promise within the two countries, much healing remains unfinished. Nevertheless, despite persistently pronounced disparities between black and white realities, it has become more difficult to articulate racial issues. Some deem ""race"" an increasingly unnecessary identity in these more self-consciously ""post-racial"" times. The volume engages post-racial ideas in both their limitations and promise. Contributors look specifically at the extent to which a church's contemporary response to race consciousness and post-racial consciousness enables it to give an accurate public account of race.

Journeying to Justice provides the very first comprehensive appraisal of the tumultuous journey towards equity and reconciliation amongst British and Jamaican Baptists across two centuries of Christian missionary work, in which slavery, colonialism and racism has loomed large. This ground-breaking text brings together scholars and practitioners, lay and ordained, peoples from a variety of culturally and ethnically diverse backgrounds, all speaking to the enduring truth of the gospel of Christ as a means of effecting social, political and spiritual transformation. Journeying to Justice reminds us that the way of Christ is that of the cross and that grace is always costly and being a disciple demands commitment to God and to others with whom we walk this journey of faith. At a time when the resurgence of nationalism is threatening to polarise many nations this text reminds us that in Christ there is solidarity amongst all peoples.

After the 2008 election and 2012 reelection of Barack Obama as US president and the 1994 election of Nelson Mandela as the first of several blacks to serve as South Africa's president, many within the two countries have declared race to be irrelevant. For contributors to this volume, the presumed demise of race may be premature. Given continued racial disparities in income, education, and employment, as well as in perceptions of problems and promise within the two countries, much healing remains unfinished. Nevertheless, despite persistently pronounced disparities between black and white realities, it has become more difficult to articulate racial issues. Some deem ""race"" an increasingly unnecessary identity in these more self-consciously ""post-racial"" times. The volume engages post-racial ideas in both their limitations and promise. Contributors look specifically at the extent to which a church's contemporary response to race consciousness and post-racial consciousness enables it to give an accurate public account of race.

Is God Colour-Blind? applies the lessons of black theology in a pastoral context and draws on the author's extensive experience of working with churches on issues surrounding racial justice and Christian ministry. Anthony Reddie offers a series of short stories, followed by theological reflection and analysis, which suggest new ways of understanding 'self' and 'other' in terms of Christian practice. The book provides food for thought and practical resources for those who are striving for a society where we are all equally accepted as God's children, no matter what our ethnic origin or skin colour. 'Anthony Reddie has made a place for himself and his work at the centre of British theological life. A theologian of many talents, he has used them all in his quest to rework Black theology in order to create new practices that promote inclusion, justice and equality both inside and outside of the Christian Church.' Robert Beckford, academic and broadcaster

The SCM Core Text Black Theology is an accessible introduction to the teaching and learning of Black theology in Higher Education and theological educational training establishments. This text aims to sensitize readers to the inherited legacy of 'race', ethnicity, difference and racism, which has exerted a profound influence upon the lives of all people since the Enlightenment. The book shows the diversity and vibrancy of Black Theology as an international movement that emerged not in the context of the academe but from the lived experiences of Black people and yet has gained recognition as an academic discipline.