The Gospel of César Chávez: My Faith in Action

by Mario T. García (Editor), Virgilio Elizondo (Foreword)

Once asked to explain how he had sustained himself over so many years of struggle, César Chávez "I don't think I could base my will to struggle on cold economics or some political doctrine. For me, the base must be faith."In evaluating the life and struggles of César Chávez, one of the most recognized Latino leaders in the United States and the first labor leader to successfully organize and unionize U.S. farm workers, many historians, journalists, and other writers have largely missed one significant factor of his life—his faith and deep spirituality. The Gospel of César Chávez uses the prolific leader's own words to express his profound faith and the way it shaped his life and leadership.

162 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2007

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a strong book for setting Cesar Chavez' words in context.
Many know a few of this leader's most famous quotes, yet we run the risk of skimming his work far too quickly by focusing on only a few of his messages. Not only were more quotations, written reflections, and -- I believe interviews -- provided here, but the brief explanations of values and principles which underscored Chavez' works help me organize the themes. I have other books about Cesar Chavez and unions which I will soon read, and this is a fine resource for starting.

[Erick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't expect the book to be mainly out of quotes. I feel more knowledgeable about how hard his path to reform was, but I don't like the formatting of the text.

[R.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chávez's own words and not much more. While his words are powerful, the book feels unfinished, like the first draft of what has the potential to be an excellent boo on the function of religion/theology on Chávez's activism and racial politics.

[Zach Morgan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Boring, dry, and quite preachy throughout. I can respect Cesar Chavez and his immense faith, however, a book of his quotes based on his religious beliefs is overkill for all but the most devout.