When the Spirit Is Your Inheritance: Reflections on Borderlands Pentecostalism

by Jonathan Calvillo

As a type of popular religion, the Pentecostal movement has historically appealed to working-class Latinx people. While the movement is known for ecstatic practices, followers maintain a spirituality of deep interiority. Amid diverging political allegiances and emerging political demagogues, Latino Pentecostalism represents a battleground for the soul of Latinidad. When the Spirit Is Your Inheritance explores Latino Pentecostal racial identity from an intergenerational, insider perspective. As a sociologist born and raised in Latino Pentecostalism, with years of qualitative research experience withinthe movement, Jonathan Calvillo draws on autoethnographic observations to describe the converging sociopolitical streams shaping Latino Pentecostal identity. Focusing on lived religious practices, sociological insights, and grounded theological reflection, Calvillo paints a critical and caring picture of Latino Pentecostalism. The book addresses issues of immigration, Latinidad, anti-black racism, and economic justice by presenting cross-generational snapshots of belonging in the United States. Ultimately, Calvillo considers what Latino Pentecostalism might teach others, advocating for social engagement informed by the empathetic practices learned in Latino Pentecostalism.

161 pages, Paperback

Published November 12, 2024