Understanding Black Liberation Theology
- play show:
Date: 7 May 2008
Rev. Wright and Black Liberation Theology
For those familiar with black liberation theology--a religious movement whose roots extend back to slave times--Rev. Jeremiah Wright's rabble-rousing comments are hardly a surprise. Liberationist preachers are often intentionally provocative, with a fiery style that speaks truth to power. The philosophy was formed in the 1960s by Dr. James Cone, who read the Bible from a decidedly black point of view.
Rev. Dr. Gail Anderson-Holness, minister and itinerant elder in the AME Church, lawyer, president of the Council of Churches of Greater Washington
Dr. Anthea Butler, Assistant Professor of Religion at the University of Rochester, specializing in the history of Religion in America and African-American religions in particular
Audio of Rev. Wright's complete sermon from which 9/11 sound byte was excerpted
Audio of Rev. Wright's complete sermon from which "God damn America" clip was excerpted
Israel at 60
Starts at 22:52
Sixty years ago this month, a contentious piece of real estate in the Middle East became the official state of Israel. Though mandated by the British government as the Jewish "national home," Israelis have debated the proper role of Judaism in the state since its earliest days. Rabbi James Rudin, author of "Israel for Christians: A Guide to Modern Israel," untangles Israel's complex relationship between faith and government.
Rabbi James Rudin, senior Interreligious Advisor for the American Jewish Committee
Religious Earmarks: A Bridge to Heaven?
Starts at 36:00
Earmarks, those sneaky little additions to Congressional appropriations bills, are members of Congress’ way of funneling cash to pet projects in their districts. The most infamous example? Alaska's "Bridge to Nowhere," a nearly Golden Gate-length bridge meant to service two towns then connected by a 10-minute ferry ride. The short paragraphs in a sea of ink may be easy to miss, but Rob Boston says they’re worth looking for--especially since some are channeling federal money to overtly religious programs.
Rob Boston, Assistant Director of Communications, Americans United for Separation of Church and State
Feminism and Faith
Starts at 44:07
Meet the Feminist Spiritual Community-- a group of women in Portland, Maine who have gathered every Monday night for over 26 years to celebrate life's milestones through prayer and music. Women-centered groups like this one can be found nationwide and offer a spiritual, non-denominational solace for women from all walks of life.
