A Womanist Theology of Worship: Liturgy, Justice, and Communal Righteousness - by Lisa Allen (Paperback)

About the Book

"Examines the history of worship in the Black Church in America, the enduring effects of white supremacy on its liturgical heritage, and proffers a new liturgical paradigm, using a womanist hermeneutic"--

Book Synopsis

⭐ Advance Praise & Reviews ⭐

"A groundbreaking articulation of worship as a liberative, justice-centered practice."-- Journal of Black Catholic Theological Symposium

Examines the history of worship in the Black Church in America, the enduring effects of white supremacy on its liturgical heritage, and proffers a new liturgical paradigm, using a womanist hermeneutic, for students, liturgists, liturgical musicians and lay people.

In this "love letter to the Black Church," Dr. Lisa Allen examines the history of worship in the Black Church in America (and its legacy of equating liturgy with justice), the enduring effects of white supremacy on its liturgical heritages, and finally proffers a new liturgical paradigm, using a womanist hermeneutic, for students, liturgists, liturgical musicians, and lay people.

From the Back Cover

RELIGION / Christian Theology/ General
RELIGION / Christian Rituals & Practice / Worship & Liturgy
RELIGION / Christian Theology / Liberation

In this "love letter to the Black Church," Dr. Lisa Allen examines the history of worship in the Black Church in America (and its legacy of equating liturgy with justice), the enduring effects of white supremacy on its liturgical heritages, and finally proffers a new liturgical paradigm, using a womanist hermeneutic, for students, liturgists, liturgical musicians, and lay people.

ISBN 978-1-62698-444-8
Cover design: Regina Gelfer
Cover art: "First Sunday," 1985
Oil on Masonite, 20" x 20" (c) Jonathan Green

Review Quotes

⭐ Advance Praise & Reviews ⭐

"Centers Black women's experience and calls the church to communal righteousness."-- Christian Century

"A groundbreaking articulation of worship as a liberative, justice-centered practice."-- Journal of Black Catholic Theological Symposium

"Challenges communities to embrace worship that embodies justice and collective healing."-- Catholic Books Review

"An innovative contribution to womanist theology and liturgical practice."-- Religious Studies Review

"True worship is inseparable from the pursuit of justice and the dignity of every body."-- Christian Ethics Today

"Lisa Allen has written a vigorous, well-informed, and provocative historical account of Black Church worship traditions. She has brought together insights from a rich set of sources, and has framed her reflection in light of significant developments and figures in womanist theology. This book is a must read for understanding Black liturgical history and the key issues facing current Black Church traditions. This is engaged, relevant scholarship with a discerning heart, mapping territory we need to know."--Don E. Saliers, William R. Cannon Distinguished Professor of Theology and Worship, Emeritus, Theologian-in-Residence, Emory University

"At the heart of the Black Church experience is worship. At its nerve center resides the divine imperatives of love and justice. Lisa Allen's signature work leads us into the fierce faithfulness of Womanist theology, woven through the advocating and clearing spaces of worship. In action and instruction, Dr. Allen reflects the very wisdom contained within these pages."--Alton B. Pollard III, President and Professor of Religion and Culture, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary

"There is no doubt that Allen's book will inspire future pastoral and practical theological work, and perhaps even give rise to creative new modes of worship planning and performance. "- Xavier M. Montecel, St. Mary's University, San Antonio, Journal of Moral Theology, Vol. 12, No. 1 (2023): 145-165

About the Author

Lisa Allen, PhD, is an Emmy-award winning pastor, professor, and public theologian. She is the Helmar Emil Nielsen Professor of Church Music and Worship and Degree Coordinator for the Master of Arts in Liturgical Arts and Culture at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, GA. She has over forty years of experience as a church musician, liturgist, and educator. She is the author of Worship Matters! A Collection of Practical Essays on the Practical and Spiritual Discipline of Worship. She currently resides in Atlanta, GA, and serves as Coordinator of Practical Ministries for the Sixth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.