African American Religious History The people of the African Diaspora represent a rich diversity of religious traditions. What institutions, people, movements, belief systems, and rituals make up the fullness of the African American religious experience? Beginning with the Maafa, this class charts the historical sweep of what it means to be both “black” and “religious” in America.
Feminist & Womanist Theologies Who are the major thinkers and writers in feminist and womanist theologies? Using a integrative study of historical, literary, doctrinal, and ethics resources, this class explores gender, theology, feminism, and the quest for social justice.
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Spring 2011
Crossing the Deep River This class explores the theological and ritual appropriation and adaptation, by African Americans, of the biblical legacy of the Ancient Israelites. Why has this source material, primarily drawn from the Hebrew Bible, inspired and transformed the religious lives of the people of the African Diaspora, far above any other ancient material?
Pentecostalism This seminar considers the history and theology of the Pentecostal and Holiness faith traditions in the Americas. Did the Azusa Street revival spark a major reformation movement in Christianity? We will examine the major figures, historical movements, and roots of the Pentecostal tradition, and we will pay particular attention to race, gender, and class in the contemporary Pentecostal movement.
