[1] Esteemed readers of the Journal of Lutheran Ethics, this edition contains two reviews.
[2] Pastor Thomas Johnston examined James M. Childs’ ReEngaging ELCA Social Teaching on The Church in Society. This is the first in a series of books, “For the Sake of the World,” reexamining the social teaching of the ELCA. Pr. Johnston offers insights into Childs’ influences, how these shaped his understanding of Lutheran public theology, and the stimulus for the ongoing ministry of the church.
[3] William Rodriguez offers a review of Beverly Eileen Mitchell’s book White Supremacy through Black Eyes. Mitchell presents a sober and critical analysis of racism and white supremacy (masked as nationalism) from the experiential and historical lens of Black theology. Her exploration of racism has been grounded by a sound theological reflection of the imago dei, and buttressed by a thorough and frank historical analysis of race relations in the US. The justifications for this supremacist ideology have been socially constructed, and institutionally enforced, culminating in the defacement or the violation of human dignity. Instead of promoting a facile resolution, Mitchell calls for an authentic and forthright discussion on race. In effect efforts for racial reconciliation and healing need to commence anew.
[4] We are currently seeking new reviews. Please feel free to contact me with unsolicited reviews, or please peruse the list of available books for review. These books can be mailed to interested parties. We are also seeking reviewers for Fortress Press Series ReEngaging ELCA Social Teaching, and a special series on immigration and refugees.
William Rodríguez is Assistant Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, Florida. He serves as Book Review Editor for the Journal of Lutheran Ethics.