Doreen Olson recommended a tremendous radio program last week, and I missed it; however! Thanks to public radio’s website and podcast, I was able to take in this insightful program and accompanying article on the theology of the African-American spiritual.

The podcast, article and a number of links can be found at the Speaking of Faith Newsletter offered by American Public Media.

In the short article, Krista Tippett comments on her cherished conversation with the late Joe Carter:

There is also, as Joe helped me understand, a sophisticated theology of suffering contained in these melodies and words. It is a theology that leans into suffering — and, in surrender, transforms and rises above it, if only in moments. Still, such moments are nurturing and sustaining, and many of us have experienced this directly through hearing and singing the spirituals, generations later and in radically different contexts.

Any of you have particular insight into the theology and value of the spiritual as a treasured form in contemporary Church and World? Please log in and tell us more!

Peace,
Katie

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