Anthony B. Pinn Livres

Confessions, communions, sermons, and community service--Father Ford did it all. Although he never fully understood what led him to the priesthood and at times just went through the motions as best he could, he managed to avoid the conflicts and dilemmas that so often destroyed the careers of fellow clergy--no sexual misconduct of any kind, no stealing, nothing that would bring disgrace to the Church. But when the Church forces the closure of his low-income congregation and assigns him to a new church in a rich part of town, a hotbed of sin, he begins to question whether the Church establishment is truly honoring God's will. Challenged by a troubled parishioner who reminds him that violence and murder have long been a vital story within the saga of human salvation, Father Ford starts to understand that God has sent this messenger for a reason. He comes to the realization that perhaps his true calling is to do whatever is necessary to purify all who sin through extreme penance. In the sanctuary of the confessional, Father Ford and his unlikely partner commit to doing the work of Christ that the Church can't or won't do . . . bloody work--a divine charge to cleanse the congregation and safeguard the body of Christ from sinners. Together, in order to save, they resolve to kill.

Exploring the historical context of African American religious traditions, this work delves into the essence of black religion in America, shaped by the experiences of enslavement and systemic oppression. Anthony Pinn examines the diverse expressions of faith, including black Christianity and Voodoo, to uncover a fundamental response to the denial of personhood faced by black individuals. Through his analysis, he highlights the ongoing quest for authentic identity and subjectivity that continues to influence black religious life today, offering a fresh perspective on spirituality and resilience.

"Examines why has humanism failed to provide a more compelling alternative to theism for so many minority groups and makes a case for why humanism should embrace racial justice as part of its commitment to the well-being of life in general and human flourishing in particular"--

The book presents a creative exploration of African American religion, highlighting significant themes and challenges faced by African Americans across diverse spiritual traditions. It aims to provide an accessible understanding of the historical context and cultural influences that shape their religious experiences, making it a valuable resource for readers interested in the intersection of faith and African American history.

Human welfare, happiness and fulfillment are much sought after in our world of social, political and economic upheaval. These are desires that lie at the heart of humanism.

Drawing on literature along with the visual and performing arts, Anthony B. Pinn theorizes religion as a technology for interrogating human experiences understanding the ways in which things are always involved in processes of exchange and interplay.

Exploring the rich tapestry of faith within African American communities, this book delves into the diverse religious practices beyond the commonly recognized black churches and Islamic traditions. It offers insights into 11 distinct religious traditions, including Buddhism, Catholicism, Judaism, and Voodoo, showcasing the complexity and variety of beliefs. Each tradition is presented as a snapshot, enhancing the reader's understanding of how African Americans engage with their spirituality in a multifaceted religious landscape.

The exploration of black religious life in America unveils a dynamic tapestry of beliefs through four non-Christian indigenous movements: Voodoo, Orisha devotion, Santeria, and the Nation of Islam, alongside Black Humanism. Anthony Pinn's extensive research and interviews reveal the impact of Caribbean religions, divination, and healing practices, as well as the rise of black Muslim identity and humanism. By emphasizing popular practices and local religious settings, the work presents a nuanced perspective that enriches the understanding of African American religious studies beyond traditional Christian frameworks.

Who are the "Nones"? What does humanism say about race, religion and popular culture? How do race, religion and popular culture inform and affect humanism? The demographics of the United States are changing, marked most profoundly by the religiously unaffiliated, or what we have to come to call the "Nones". Spread across generations in the United States, this group encompasses a wide range of philosophical and ideological perspectives, from some in line with various forms of theism to those who are atheistic, and all sorts of combinations in between. Similar changes to demographics are taking place in Europe and elsewhere. Humanism: Essays on Race, Religion and Popular Culture provides a much-needed humanities-based analysis and description of humanism in relation to these cultural markers. Whereas most existing analysis attempts to explain humanism through the natural and social sciences (the "what" of life), Anthony B. Pinn explores humanism in relation to "how" life is arranged, socialized, ritualized, and framed. This ground-breaking publication brings together old and new essays on a wide range of topics and themes, from the African-American experience, to the development of humanist churches, and the lyrics of Jay Z.

The narrative explores the author's transformation from a dedicated African American minister to an outspoken atheist, delving into the personal and philosophical struggles that shaped his beliefs. It examines the impact of faith on his life, the challenges he faced in reconciling his experiences with his evolving worldview, and the broader implications of his journey for understanding faith and doubt. Through introspection and candid reflections, the book invites readers to contemplate the complexities of belief and the search for truth.