Description: Latina Evangelicas: A Theological Survey from the Margins is a constructive and postcolonial examination of the theology of Protestant Latinas who reside in the United States. Written by three Latinas who have pastored and who teach in Latina/o communities, the book seeks to expand beyond Latina feminist and mujerista voices to include those whose perspectives have not yet been heard. It thus introduces an important theological perspective to a wider audience, and provides an important resource that has been lacking for evangelicas/os and other marginalized groups who study in various theological programs. Key terminology, such as evangelica, is defined throughout, and a glossary is included for non-Spanish-speaking readers. Each chapter considers theological themes important to the Latina Protestant worshiping community, beginning with a constructive discussion of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit and followed by the doctrines of salvation and Jesus Christ, the Trinity, the church, Scripture, and ""the last things"" (eschatology). Given that one of the characteristics of Latina/o theologies is their dialogical and collaborative nature, the book concludes with a conversation among the three authors about the theological thinking that took place in its composition. Study questions are included at the end of each chapter. Endorsements: ""A groundbreaking book destined to shape Latina theology for years to come. Rooted in praxis and community, the authors are prompted by the transformative power of the subversive Spirit. I highly recommend it."" --Kwok Pui-lan, Professor of Christian Theology and Spirituality, Episcopal Divinity School ""Latina Evangelicas is a powerful and provocative treatise by three Latina theologian-practitioners. Here we have rich and prophetic voices that go beyond Latina feminist, mujerista, or womanist works. The traditional theological themes addressed in this book may seem common to some, but watch out In the hands of these Latina theologians, these themes--be they the Holy Spirit, salvation, the Trinity, or Scripture--are insightful, constructive, and explosive."" --Eldin Villafane, Professor of Christian Social Ethics, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary ""A welcome and necessary addition to the theological table, and in particular to la mesa latina. This labor of love is a spirited and spirit-filled example of teologia en conjunto. These three authors, Latinas evangelicas, rooted in the richness and diversity of their daily places and communities, expand theological vocabulary and offer fresh perspectives on traditional systematic themes by drawing on lived experience latinamente."" --Carmen Nanko-Fernandez, Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry, Catholic Theological Union About the Contributor(s): Loida I. Martell-Otero is Professor of Constructive Theology at Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. She coedited Teologia en Conjunto with Jose D. Rodriguez (1997) and has published on topics related to Christology, soteriology, vocation, and spirituality. Zaida Maldonado Perez is a former Dean of the School of Urban Ministries at Asbury Theological Seminary, Florida-Dunnam Campus, and Professor of Church History and Theology. Her publications include The Subversive Role of Visions in Early Christian Martyrs (2010) and An Introduction to Christian Theology (2002), coauthored with Justo L. Gonzalez. Elizabeth Conde-Frazier is the Academic Dean of Esperanza College of Eastern University in Philadelphia. Among her contributions are Listening to the Children (2011) and A Many Colored Kingdom (2004).

During the persecution of the early church, the stories of the witness of the martyrs-later known as the Acts of the Martyrs--became a critical part of the church's reading and devotional material. Why? This book argues that the reading of the Acts, and especially their visions, did more than just encourage the persecuted church; they reveal a nuanced view of God, the world, power, and powerlessness, death and life that at times subverts what may have been construed as normal or dominant by either church or the Greco-Roman society. This nuanced view may in fact reflect an underlying grass-roots or "popular theology" not readily available to the reader through other early church literature.

This book helps beginning theological students grasp the basics of Christian theology. Consciously avoiding the perspective of one school of thought or confessional tradition, the authors provide the reader with a brief, broad overview of the questions and contents of theological study. Their accessible use of language, clear organization, and careful explanation will prove of invaluable aid to those who are getting their theological feet wet for the first time.

"In the words of its authors, this book offers an introduction 'to the fuller spectrum of Christian theology as it has developed through the centuries.' Few writers address the historical development of the classic doctrines and the contemporary resonance as adroitly as Gonzalez and Perez. The chapter on Jesus Christ, for example, presents concise summaries of the treatments of Christ's person leading up to Chalcedon, while suggesting a need for a multiplicity of images in understanding the work of Christ that liberates the whole person and restores all creation. Beginning students, as a result, are invited into a living theological conversation, where the contested claims of the past have continued relevance in a contemporary era beset by its undervaluing of the body and creation. Broadly ecumenical in tenor, with reference to theologians from nearly every century, the work should appeal to both a popular readership and introductory students in college and seminary. One disappointing aspect of the book is an absence of Latino/a, feminist, and liberation perspectives. For a work that argues for the contextuality of all theology, and from authors whose previous work has been monumental in Hispanic theological education, this lack is surprising."---David H. Jensen, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, in Religious Studies Review, Volume 29 Number 3, July 2003.