The Call of God: Women Doing Theology in Peru

by Tom Powers, SJ

Overview

Based on conversations with women in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Lima, Peru, The Call of God explores how their faith provides them with an understanding amidst extreme poverty, violence, and displacement. Peru was the birthplace of liberation theology and the poor women of that country were instrumental in its original elucidation. This book introduces the women of El Agustino, where a diverse, dedicated and eloquent group have set out to answer questions, solve problems, and rebuild a society stricken with rampant inflation and terrorism, all in response to the call of God. Without much formal education, these women possess and espouse complex theological propositions with a high degree of independence and proficiency. A careful reading reveals an education of a different sort—one rooted in life's changing experiences; one directed toward a different liberation.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780791486566
Publisher:	State University of New York Press
Publication date:	02/01/2012
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	194
File size:	732 KB

About the Author

Tom Powers, S.J. is Director of the Center for Ignatian Spirituality and Adjunct Professor of Theological Studies at Loyola Marymount University.

Table of Contents

Preface

1. Introduction

Why These Women?
Why El Agustino?
Liberation and Feminist Theologies
Contextual and Local Theologies
Conclusion

2. The Context

Historical Reflection as a Foundation
Peru
Sendero Luminoso
The Church in Peru
Globalization
The City of Lima and the Barrio of El Agustino
Women in Peruvian History
Conclusion

3. The Women of El Agustino

A Personal Look at the Women
A Novel Quality
Voice and Listening in Theological Discourse
Theology or Vocation?
The Local Church
Faith Lived Out Loud
The Theological Context of El Agustino
Conclusion

4. The Theology

Origins
The Projects
Workshops
SEA Finances
A Narrative, Listening, Acting Theology
Confronting Demons and Idols
Conclusion

5. The Path Ahead

Changes in Community/Changes in Theology
The Questions
The Road Ahead
A Different Liberation
Women and Future Theological Discourse

Appendix: Interviewees

Notes

Glossary of Spanish Words and Terms

Bibliography

Index