Liberation Theology

Background The prophets of Israel and the early Christian prophets were primarily concerned with this call to justice, a call to live as required by God.

Introduction Liberation theology is an interpretation of Christian faith through the poor’s suffering, and a critique of society and Christianity through the eyes of the oppressed.

Theological Development When Latin American theologians began to think about their pastoral problems, it led to reflection on the relationship between faith and poverty, the gospel and social justice.

Theological Development While the Gospels do encourage the virtues of forgiveness and patience, they also talk about justice and service and loving one another.

Opposition The Church did not want its priests becoming revolutionaries and saying Mass with one hand while holding a gun with the other.

Summary I would not go so far as to say that Truth changes, but only that our capacity to assimilate and understand Truth changes over time.

Summary What is the role of religion in modern politics? We don’t want religion to tell us what to do, and yet we condemn religions that ignore great injustice.