Earlier this year I was invited to write an article in English for the Zeitschrift für Missionswissenschaft (ZMiss). This is a Missiology Journal that focuses on Intercultural Theology, and the subject of its 2022 edition is, “Rassismus und Rassismuskritik [Racism and Critiquing Racism]“. 

I highly recommend this edition which has some wonderful contributions by theologians working in the areas of racial justice and reconciliation. My contribution is an in-depth introduction to Black American Theology, and the future of Black American religious thought. Here is the abstract.

Black Theology was created to speak to Black Americans as they faced a nihilistic threat from various forms of oppression. It was meant to give them a sense of meaning, hope, and love, through a vision of a God Who was present with them as a co-sufferer and co-celebrant. Nevertheless, the question remains if Black Theology can speak beyond its context, and offer meaning, hope, and love to other groups facing oppression. Furthermore, is it only for the benefit of the oppressed, or can it also be of benefit to those who are oppressors? This article gives an in-depth view of Black theology from an inside perspective, or the view of a Black American theologian whose faith was shaped by it. It explores the African roots, practices, and goals of Black Theology, and also shows how it speaks to freedom struggles beyond its original context. Finally, it shows how Black Theology seeks a dual liberation, or the freedom and transformation of the oppressed and oppressors.

Unfortunately, the article cannot be shared on my website at this time. Nevertheless, those who wish to read it can purchase this year’s edition of ZMiss by clicking on the button below.

The image featured in this post is by Scotty J. Williams.