Customer Reviews

Conversations with God: Two Centuries of Prayers by African Americans

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What a marvelous compendium of African American spirituality! Readers will invariably find themselves adding their own "Amen" with every turn of the page. The value of the book is enhanced by moving pictures and illustrations. A helpful bibliography and index are also included. It is regrettable that the late James M. Washington is not around to see the full fruit of his labor. He has certainly produced a work that is both timely and timeless in its relevance.

Well-researched, wisely compiled, exhaustive in scope, encouraging in result, and providing worshipful hope. James Washington, in the spirit of Harold Carter's The prayer tradition of Black people, has collated over 200 prayers, poems, hymns, and stories reflecting the nature of African American spirituality. Lay people and academics will equally benefit from and enjoy this vibrant work.

Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction .

This is a collection of prayers that are beautiful, at times heart-wrenching, and always inspiring. I expect to read this book again and again.

This book was brought to my attention by the Pastor of my church during a bible-study. I was intrigued and decided to find the book. To my surprise, the author, James Washington, had matriculated at the same university as I, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. It was fascinating to read about Mr. Washington's life. It was thrilling to read the collection of prayers by African Americans - the most poignant being the prayers of slaves. A few prayers by the Founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Richard Allen, are featured. This book is a tremendous collection of prayers that belie the day to day lives of those offering the prayers. The strength, determination, and eternal optimism of an oppressed people is evidenced in these prayers. It cements in my mind that I am living on the prayers of those who came before me.