The Day God Saw Me as Black

by D. Danyelle Thomas

The Day God Saw Me as Black is a genre-defying, cultural critique of white supremacy in the Black Pentecostal religious experience through the lenses of race, gender, sexual expression, and class analyses. A narrative that weaves between critique and meditation, decolonization and reconciliation, the theoretical and the deeply personal, The Day God Saw Me as Black is an imagining of what could be if we stopped denying ourselves — and each other — full liberation.

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Race, Christianity, Audiobook, Spirituality, Memoir

240 pages, Hardcover

First published October 29, 2024

Reviews

[Brandie Bridges-Sells · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

[Amber Johnson · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book so bad and I just don’t. Her teachings aren’t for me and don’t align with my relationship with God. I thought she made very valid points at times but overall it’s a no for me.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the words of Toni Morrison, "She is a friend of my mind. She gather me, man. The pieces I am, she gather them and give them back to me in all the right order."

Each chapter/essay was better than the last. I'll definitely read this one again.

[Mimi Ivy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first few essays about the author’s own upbringing, church experiences, and life events were exceptional reads because of their authenticity and vulnerability. I believe that these chapters add something new to the space of womanist literature.

I especially appreciate the following, which I found to be both thought provoking and healing:

“What is liberation for Black people in the realization that American capitalism will never enlarge itself to include our success?”

“Perhaps it is not that our lives do not matter to God but that She is wholly disinterested in helping us to merely endarken the face of an establishment that neither serves nor aids in the betterment of Her people.”

(page 68)

Some of the essays fell flat for me due to the overly superfluous language or a simple difference in opinion that I have from the author. Much of the commentary surrounding sex and bodies fell into the latter category. I understand that there is this (warranted) push back on purity culture but I believe a more developed argument around female sexuality is necessary. I’ve noticed that ‘have sex because you deserve to feel pleasure!’ is the stance that a lot of millennial womanist scholars are taking and although it’s not inaccurate it also doesn’t feel complete. I’d like to see someone explore the nuances of heterosexual relationships but maybe I wouldn’t find that in this kind of book 🤔

Anyway, I enjoyed this! D. Danyelle Thomas is a gift and I appreciate her thoughts.

[Shayla Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone that is more spiritual than religious these days, I found this book very insightful! The Black church can be a complicated place with patriarchal rule from the pulpit and women reduced to being seen not heard. The author talks about her own journey through this as well and i really appreciated that.

[GlitterWater79 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as part of a book club with some of my near and dear. D. Danyelle Thomas, the author, illustrates a great deal of courage and vulnerability in the sharing of her personal experiences as well as her willingness to say the thing that will knowingly bring her scorn from many. Ultimately, the book is, as she says at the end, a powerful altar call to understand God through our own story and not the imposed narratives of church and society.

It was elegantly written, accessible, forthright, took on very complex issues, was at times funny in that blues humor kind of way, but also the seriousness of the matter at hand never waned. I appreciate the synthesis of the authors memoir with historic and contemporary events as well as close reading of sources Biblical and academic. The author clearly knows her stuff and demonstrates the command of a vast range of sources throughout. I especially appreciated the way she engaged in explorations of Black folk magic and other traditional African religions and practices. The couple chapters that focused on that weee among my favorites.

The forward by Anjanue Ellis was a great read, it’s so wonderful to know she’s not only a an extraordinary actress but a great writer too. I also enjoyed the poetry of Valerie B and how it threaded the different sections of the book and its themes together.

There is so much more to say about this book but I guess the big point I’d make is that I hope everyone will read it. Even if you end up not agreeing with every single thing, it is a book that is clearly written with love for Black folks and with a deeply humanist and Black feminist/womanist commitment to see everyone happy and whole. That alone is worth everyone’s time and serious engagement. Thank you, D. Danyelle Thomas and everyone in your gratitude list at the end for this urgent and marvelous work. I am grateful to have read it in general, but especially to have read it and discussed it with people who I love just the way they are and who love me back just the way I am.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will definitely need to read this again. But it may have healed me. I wish I had a 4.5 star option!

[King Kimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't grow up churched. In my 20s, I came to faith by the way of my brother Ricky and his church home at the time, Community Gospel Church. The church was LGBTQIA+ accepting and affirming, and also accepted all races as well. There I truly felt the love of Christ and acceptance in ways I haven't since.

I don't remember when I first discovered the ministry of Unfit Christian and its congregation on Facebook. I remember reading the blogs first and feeling connected to what was shared. Because although I didn't grow up churched, I still was subject to the policing of femme bodies based upon churchy respectability politics.

So, when I learned that Passuh Dany was to write a book, I immediately asked to be put on the ARC list.

All that to say, I'ma little biased being a congregant.

HowTFever, this book has lived up to my expectations to be heartfelt transparency and vulnerability, authoritative and authentic critique of the faith, and a hope filled way forward for us all.

Aunjanue Ellis writes a moving foreword that sets up anticipation for the work to come. Her pellucidity in telling her Black church girl story whets the appetite for what is in store.

As Passuh Dany shares her deconstruction and decolonization journey, while also giving a critique and challenge of the Black church, she writes as Lyvonne Briggs says "a love letter, a call to action, and a holy hymn all in one..."

If they who are in Christ are free indeed, then this work is essential reading to bring the faith forward in liberation of all.

[Litsplaining]

Solid mix of memoir and cultural criticism of the Black Church.

[Felicia Branch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Day God Saw Me as Black: The Journey to Liberated Faith is a partial biography of the Black church. It's a partial autobiography of her wrestling with drummed in religion.

Phenomenally researched, it will stretch your mind and make most Christians uncomfortable.

What it is, is the truth.

The Black church is complicit in upholding white supremacy with a side of patriarchy. Adopting whiteness' values and rejecting our ancestors'.

This will be required reading for anyone wanting to have a conversation with me about anything. 😆😆

She hits all the oppressive scripture. You know. The scripture that church folk have wielded forever to justify subjugation of Black people, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

"The church has preached love as we created a culture of hate and intolerance. . . . We say so much about love, but often fail to do enough to actualize love for people whose lives complicate our narratives and force us to deal with the structural inequity we sustain."

Fantastic book

[litwithremy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid 3.5. A lot to think about for sure.

[Kati Karloff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every person in the midst of deconstructing can benefit from this book; I know I did.

[Donnakay'sBookWorld · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I don't think I've ever been more seen in a novel. What started off as a reminder of the lessons and correlations between organized religion and capitalism quickly evolved. This is such a fantastic exploration of the intersectionality of Christianity and black feminine identity. The author holds no punches and takes these topics in a direction that I feel is often not publicly discussed in earnest. I appreciated her ability to grasp the fullest of what her life in the church and its teachings have meant for her holistic development and becoming the fullest version of herself.

Many times in real life, any questioning of the inconsistencies in the interpretation of the theology as well as the application to current societal norms are met with dismissal and relegated to a box of "don't question God", versus the reality of questioning the interpretations that man has implemented. I applaud the author of having this conversation out loud and well as being real about who she is as a person and how she presents with her faith.

The conversation about the influence and role that other afro-based spiritual systems have played in our current freedom and their subsequent demonization was much appreciated. The way the church also practices rituals but decides which ones are acceptable and sanctified while othering the energy of the original rituals and ceremonies that have shaped them is truly mind-boggling and hypocritical Thank you for your honesty.

I can't express how much I appreciated the links you made between the teachings we receive about sex in the church and how women eventually grow to view themselves and their bodies. The dirtiness that is inherently placed on women (and children), with no thought to the damaging effects that these teachings has on it's subjects after they have been violated by the very men that the pulpit elevates and protects is heartbreaking.

At a young age, I grappled with the idea that I was born into sin and eventually abandoned the acceptance of that teaching altogether as an adult. This book really helped to put into words a lot of the feelings I had towards reconciling faith with the other parts of my identity. I would absolutely recommend this book to others as I believe it is an important discourse that should be faced head-on.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the audio arc of the book.

[booksandbrownskin · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Christian Black woman who didn’t grow up in the church, I’ve always felt strangely grateful for that. There were no Bibles in our home, no Sunday service, no prayers before bed—just the occasional mention of God or Jesus wrapped in an expletive. And yet, as a teenager, I sensed there was a God. I can’t explain how—I just did.

In 1999, I met Jesus for myself and began my personal relationship journey with Him, separate from tradition or religious performance. Because of that, I’ve often felt shielded from some of the harm others have experienced within church spaces. Reading 'The Day God Saw Me as Black' was challenging, but not in a bad way. D. Danyelle Thomas holds a mirror to the ways white supremacy and purity culture have distorted Black faith journeys.

Some chapters made me pause. Others made me nod in agreement. But what I appreciated most was the honesty. This isn’t a light read, it’s a heart read. For anyone wrestling with the intersections of faith, identity, and Blackness in whitewashed religious spaces, this book opens the door for necessary conversations.

[Aisha Crumpton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating:3.5
Quick, thought provoking read.
I didn’t agree with most of it, but I really enjoyed her perspective.

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a grief that comes with finishing a book so relevant to your life. D Danyelle Thomas writes reflective essays on glaring issues in the church culture she experienced growing up a church kid. She grew up a PK, deeply devoted to the spectacle and community of church. But it was really through college that she was unable to keep the stagnation of her church upbringing with the research she was doing on psychology, gender studies, and sociology. I resonate with that. Also, her lived experiences matured and showed her that valuing herself over sacrificing herself was its own journey with unique spiritual lessons. This journey is one many black American church women have to reconcile with if they deconstruct their faith. Overall, I thought her Insight was research considerate and mindful of intersectional justice.

She writes about the hypocrisy in the church and urges church folk to set themselves free from the expectations that the church itself cannot and often refuses uphold. She recalls pastors- like her own dad- having sexual affairs that went unchallenged and her ex best friend- the pastor’s kid- having an abortion under the table doubling down with plausible deniability. She writes about how the judgement of her sexuality in the church led her to settle in a harmful past relationship- where her partner was literally in prison at one point- and she paid for everything while begging for communication, physical intimacy, and the smallest amount of consideration. It made me reflect on situations because of the church where I sabotaged my self worth over because I didn’t think I was enough to desire something. I was on the opposite spectrum: lashing out at people and self sabotaging relationships because I was judging myself harshly.

When I finished the book, I was sad. Maybe the book wasn’t as good as I had thought? I recalled the beginning experience of the first few chapters, and how it felt like plopping down on a big, comfy, family couch and listening to your aunty spill all the family secrets for the first time. The tension in my neck, eyebrows, sides of my nose, and behind my ears all eased as I settled into actual validation of my own Christian deconstruction. I believe in my 5 stars review. There is a sadness in accepting reality. The essays she told pointed out huge disappointments of our social systems, and as an ex-church kid I lament… where do we go? The author find solace in reframing church spaces but I’m not sure if that’s my path. As I closed the chapters, the familiar road so happily shared now diverged and Im not complete with any answers that honor my own lived experiences. I don’t currently want to reconcile with the church. But that’s okay. It takes a book that honesty owns every inch of one’s life to make you see how you actually stand apart. It was a brilliant magnifying glass to a part of experiences that I could relate with, and a beautiful portrait to learn and empathize to. I wish Danyelle the best moving forward, and this book is a testament to choosing to grow despite how different it looks like from those around you.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "The Day God Saw Me as Black," D. Danyelle Thomas takes the reader on a courageous and transformative journey through the intersecting landscapes of race, religion, and identity. With a fearless voice and unyielding conviction, Thomas challenges the status quo, dismantling the oppressive structures of white supremacy within the Black Pentecostal religious experience.

Through a masterful blend of critique and meditation, Thomas invites readers to confront the uncomfortable truths of systemic racism, misogyny, homophobia, and classism embedded within the fabric of Christianity. Drawing upon her own experiences as the daughter of a pastor and theologian, Thomas fearlessly interrogates the ways in which religious indoctrination has normalized suffering and pain, particularly within the Black community.

One of the book's most powerful aspects is Thomas's exploration of the intersectionality of oppression and the urgent need for decolonization in spiritual practice. She eloquently argues for the reconciliation of ancestral veneration with Christian theology, offering a compelling vision of true spirituality rooted in liberation and empowerment.

Thomas's prose is both evocative and deeply personal. She merges together intimate reflections with incisive cultural critique. She navigates complex theological and social issues with a clarity and compassion that is both refreshing and inspiring. Through her writing, she challenges readers to confront our own internalized beliefs and biases, urging us to reimagine a faith that is inclusive, affirming, and just.

At the heart of "The Day God Saw Me as Black" lies a profound sense of love—for oneself, for one's community, and for the divine. Thomas's reflections on the tender bond she shared with her late father, a pastor who grappled to balance the demands of being a father and church leader while she was little, struck me deeply. Her journey toward healing and reconciliation serves as a testament to the healing power of love and forgiveness. Of her father she writes: "Daddy chose me in the best way he could before closing his eyes." - instant tears!

In her critique of prominent figures within the Black church, such as Juanita Bynum, Pastor Kim Burrell, and Bishop Eddie Lee Long, Thomas demonstrates a fearless commitment to truth-telling and accountability. She refuses to shy away from difficult conversations, challenging readers to confront the ways in which the church has been complicit in perpetuating harm.

"The Day God Saw Me as Black" is a groundbreaking work that defies categorization, transcending genres to offer a profound meditation on faith, identity, and liberation. It is a book that demands to be read, discussed, and ultimately, embraced as a catalyst for change. Through her luminous prose and unwavering courage, D. Danyelle Thomas emerges as a visionary voice for the 21st-century African American Progressive Faith community—a lighthouse of hope in a world desperately in need of healing and transformation.

[Evie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wrapped up The Day God Saw Me as Black by Passuh D. Danyelle Thomas, and wow, this book is like a gift for anyone figuring out where faith, identity, and self-love all meet up. Danyelle dives right into the big stuff, asking questions like, “Do Black Lives Matter to God?” and, “If Jesus doesn’t fix it, the Hoodoo Lady will.” This isn’t just a book; it’s a space for all of us who feel like we’re on the edges, the ones who want to push, dig, and maybe rethink what faith and freedom mean.

Even if you didn’t grow up in the Black church, Passuh Danyelle’s words pull you into the beauty and complexity of Black spirituality. It’s like sitting down with an old friend who’s wise and not afraid to speak her mind. This book really gets you thinking, questioning the rules of organized religion but at the same time pointing us toward love, justice, and truth in a way that makes room for everyone.

Passuh Danyelle’s voice is strong and soulful, holding space for anyone who’s searching. Do yourself a favor, grab this book, and take it in. Trust me, you won’t regret it. 10/10.

[Bookish Babe53 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just completed D. Danyelle Thomas', The Day God Saw Me as Black. I must say this book did not disappoint. The narration was done in a manner that my attention was transfixed. As a junior high school student, I went to a COGIC church, I saw all that Thomas talked about; the emotions & experiences she wrote about were very relatable.
I just completed D. Danyelle Thomas', The Day God Saw Me as Black. I must say this book did not disappoint. The narration was done in a manner that my attention was transfixed. As a junior high school student, I went to a COGIC church, I saw all that Thomas talked about; the emotions & experiences she wrote about were very relatable.
The Day God Saw Me as Black is thought provoking, and led me to question organized religion and it power structure.
Thank you netgalley for my ARC copy. I look forward to reading more by D. Danyelle Thomas.

#Netgalley #TheDayGodSawMeasBlack #WomenInTheBlackChurch #NetGalley #Christanity

[J R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Thomas presents a glimpse into the Black Christian church as she also challenges - with intellect and braveness - the ways that the Black Christian church upholds patriarchy, capitalism, and hegemonic gender and sexual limits.

Having someone question the power of institutional religion through both practices and embedded beliefs is not new. What I did find refreshing and new was Ms. Thomas’ presentation of ways of finding faith and truth in new, communal approaches that honor all identities and while loving and honoring God.

In my “which five people would you want to gather around the dinner table this weekend” scenario, Ms. Thomas definitely would make the list.

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.

[Kiana Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written and narrated. This was a book I didn’t know I needed in my life and will forever be grateful. 🫶🏾 I highly recommend this book for black women who are going through a spiritual and healing transition. The book dissects the perspectives in the black community through the establishment of religion and how it affected the treatment and other decisions that were made socially and politically towards minorities. I could feel the voice of my missing mother figure, sister, and best friend reminding me and encouraging me of the potential that I have to be my full authentic self. D. Danyelle Thomas showed up and showed out with the receipts when discussing how race, gender and sexual class inhibits the growth and the fight against oppression.

[Shahara’Tova · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book for times such as these. If you’ve ever found yourself questioning God and why so many bad things happen to good people while everything seems to go well for terrible folks, then you’re not alone. Thomas’ book offers nuance to archaic readings of scripture that are weaponized against women and LGBTQ+ folks in church spaces. I appreciated how the author shared parts of her journey into womanist theology and many of the ways harm and hurt showed up in her journey and others. An accessible read that moves, I couldn’t put this book down. It doesn’t have a preachy and judgmental tone, and I walked away with a better understanding of several scriptures. This is my kind of Bible study. Would definitely recommend and I would re-read this one

[Natalia Canegitta · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had went in so many directions but it all tied in. Her perspective of white supremacy and its impact of the black church validated some of my own personal beliefs. I also loved that she connected religious experience with topics such as gender and sexual empowerment. I think a part that validated and connected with me the most was a section where she spoke on ‘righteous anger’. This Book had so many facts and concepts…I wish I had read it instead of listened so I could reflect and take notes. It’s definitely a take what you need and leave the rest kind of read because everything she speaks on ain’t for everybody but I appreciate the boldness of the author.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Black woman finding peace in religion can ne a struggle. The intersection of Black and woman means that a lot of what is taught to us in religion is also used to subjugate us for being Black and a woman. With this book. I felt seen. The author's experiences mirror so many challenges I've faced and even those that's re not directly related are very relatable. This is a book that need to be read and then read again.

[Kia V Kia · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A child seeing themselves for the first time is definitive. If the seeing is done through reflection the returning image is perhaps “I am my mother’s child.” When the seeing is done through refraction the image returns misshapen, bent, askew. The image returned from the blue eyed man told me what I was not.”
Whew! This book literally put into words what I’ve been feeling about the Black Christian experience in America.

[Robert Rodgers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye opening book. I was inspired educated and sometimes attacked by Pastor Thomas' work. But this is what, I, a Millennial Church Boy who left a long time ago needed to see. Just cause the Church doesn't love me doesn't mean God hates me or wants me to suffer. And I don't have to turn off my brain and accept Dogmatic nonsense to be close to God. I also don't have to demean or abandon the wisdom of my ancestors and their beliefs. God is not who the power that be says they are.

[Adriene Peacock · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reflective. Honest. Scathing. A review of the Black church, Black womanhood, and the intersection thereof. The author, who is a gay Black woman, brings a unique perspective as a PK.

I was somewhat familiar with her Unfit Christian platform but didn’t tie the two together until this book.

As a heterosexual Black woman, I almost didn’t finish it. Not because of my phobia but because I didn’t think the book or words would resonate with me. I opened my mind and finished it.

[UnfilteredKeeReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook but will be getting the physical copy. There were so many times in this book that I felt like she was telling my experiences growing up and my black religious experiences. This book deeply affirmed my experiences. She dropped so many gems. This book is a sermon to black women.

[alyshiamae_ormaynot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good book to wrap up the year and very thought provoking to begin 2025! You can tell she wrote this book from genuine experience and it was easy to relate to! Like she says at the end, I didn’t agree with everything she wrote; however, I can respect her position and definitely relate to her experience!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pastuh Danyelle has an God given ability to speak directly to the very thing many of us church girls are thinking, FEELING, and living. Thank you for this amazing work! Regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey, this book will invite you to think about what you believe. This book leaves me in a place of being closer to who God is and who God made me!