Cross & Lynching Tree

Faith

A relationship/experience with the divine (that which is larger/other than yourself)

Theology

The words we use to describe that relationship/experience “God-talk”- faith seeking understanding

Sources and Norms of Black Theology

-Black experience: theology be relevant to the systemic oppression faced in everyday Black existence

-Black History: Includes both the oppression faced and the resistance offered by Black individuals and communities throughout history

-Black Culture: Reflects creative expressions like music, art, and literature, which arise from Black experiences and history

Revelation: Seen as God’s historical act of liberation, such as the Exodus and the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ

Scripture: Grounds Black theology in the Christian gospel while relating it to the contemporary Black experience

Sacred Space

Locations and practices where Black people experience God’s presence in their struggle for liberation

-Black Church

-Civil Rights Meeting Space

Spirituality

Spirituality is the lived faith of the oppressed, rooted in the struggle for liberation, justice, and hope, embodying God's presence in their fight against oppression

Beliefs

The gathering and agreements(s) of those who are like-mind/ or like experience

Black Liberation Theology

-Theology of liberation rooted in the Black community's perspective
-Focus on interpreting the gospel of Jesus Christ through the lens of Black oppression and suffering
-Proclaims liberation as central to the Christian message

Womanist Theology

An African American Christian feminist liberation theology reflecting Black women's social, religious, and cultural experiences

Prophetic Black Church

Advocates for societal change and liberation, actively challenging oppression and systemic racism. It embodies a commitment to justice and revolution, serving as a voice against societal structures that harm Black communities. Cone views it as essential to maintaining the revolutionary essence of the Gospel.

Priestly Black Church

Focuses on the internal and spiritual dimensions of faith, emphasizing personal salvation and community healing. While valuable, Cone critiques it when it becomes overly complacent or aligned with oppressive societal norms, thereby losing its liberative potential

P.I.E.S.S.

physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, social