Customer Reviews

Freeing Theology: The Essentials of Theology in Feminist Perspective

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4 star:		(1)
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This book is a worthwhile read to both those who would and would not be likely to agree with theology promoting feminist concerns. The essays are thoughtful, intelligent and expressive of real concerns within the Christian church. The biggest drawback to the theology is in its methodological citation of the feminine perspective as being that which should govern dogma and liturgy rather the truth of God's love found in Christ (though these are surely not simply opposed, they are nonetheless distinct realities).

Review - This collection of essays is a great starting point for discussing feminist Christian theology, and a necessary volume for students of theology today. Major issues and concerns are addressed by a variety of authors, each with a refreshingly unique approach. These critical reflections creatively draw on church history, politics, and theology in a way that convincingly communicates the need to rethink Christian faith and practice.

Further Comment - I do not believe one can be theologically literate today without engagement with Christian feminism. It is important, then, to have a volume to steer students into feminist theological discourse in a way that evokes reflection, discussion, and prepares for further readings on the subject. With the range of topics and voices, manageability (under 260pgs), and accessibility, I would recommend this book as such a volume.

Finally, for non-Christians interested in either anthropology of religion, interfaith dialogue, or women's spirituality, this book may have helpful insights in terms of faith keeping in late modern or late capitalist contexts, with some interesting discussion on decentering power and reconceptualizing the sacred.

This book was on a required reading list. The others I borrowed from a library. This one I had to purchase and I will keep it. The course is one class on and reference was made to it. It gives the perspective of women theologians and feminist theology. The feminist perspective has been silenced by the institutional Church; for the most part. The losers and the Sunday Mass goers who most likely will not hear this perspective.