Of borders and margins
Book Description
In the complex landscape of American Christianity, the relationship between established denominations and marginalized communities reveals profound truths about faith, identity, and belonging. Daisy L. Machado examines this dynamic through a focused historical lens, exploring how the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) navigated its interactions with Hispanic communities in Texas during a pivotal period of American expansion.
Through careful analysis of late nineteenth and early twentieth-century church practices, Machado uncovers the theological and cultural forces that shaped these encounters. She demonstrates how the prevailing frontier mentality profoundly influenced denominational approaches to ministry, creating barriers rather than bridges to meaningful connection.
The frontier worldview, with its emphasis on divine selection and cultural transformation, created a particular lens through which church leaders viewed their mission. This perspective, rooted in concepts of chosen identity and territorial destiny, positioned the church as an agent of social assimilation rather than spiritual partnership. The result was a missed opportunity for authentic ministry within thriving Hispanic communities.
This scholarly yet accessible work illuminates how theological assumptions can either open or close doors to genuine spiritual community. For readers interested in understanding how faith intersects with culture and power, Machado offers valuable insights into the ongoing challenges of building inclusive religious communities that honor diverse spiritual traditions and experiences.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~4 hours)
📄 Length: 151 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Hispanic Americans
- ✓ Explore Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
- ✓ Explore Texas, history
- ✓ Explore Hispanic americans, history
- ✓ Explore Religion
- ✓ Explore Religion and sociology
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Explore Disciples of Christ
