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American Prophets: The Religious Roots of Progressive Politics and the Ongoing Fight for the Soul of the Country
From one of the country's most respected religion reporters, a paradigm-shifting discussion of how the Religious Left is actually the moral compass that has long steered America’s political debates, including today.
Since the ascendancy of the Religious Right in the 1970s, common wisdom holds that it is a coalition of fundamentalist powerbrokers who are the "moral majority," setting the standard for conservative Christian values and working to preserve the status quo.
But, as national religion reporter Jack Jenkins contends, the country is also driven by a vibrant, long-standing moral force from the left. Constituting an amorphous group of interfaith activists that goes by many names and takes many forms, this coalition has operated since America's founding — praying, protesting, and marching for common goals that have moved society forward. Throughout our history, the Religious Left has embodied and championed the progressive values at the heart of American democracy — abolition, labor reform, civil rights, environmental preservation.
Drawing on his years of reporting, Jenkins examines the re-emergence of progressive faith-based activism, detailing its origins and contrasting its goals with those of the Religious Right. Today's rapidly expanding interfaith coalition — which includes Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and other faiths — has become a force within the larger "resistance" movement. Jenkins profiles Washington political insiders — including former White House staffers and faith outreach directors for the campaigns of Barack Obama, John Kerry, and Hillary Clinton — as well as a new generation of progressive faith leaders at the forefront today, including:
Rev. William Barber II, leader of North Carolina's Moral Mondays and co-chair of the nationwide Poor People's campaign
Linda Sarsour, co-chair of the Women's March
Rev. Traci Blackmon, a pastor near Ferguson, Missouri who works to lift up black liberation efforts across the country
Sister Simone Campbell, head of the Catholic social justice lobby and the "Nuns on the Bus" tour organizer
Native American "water protectors" who demonstrated against the Dakota Access Pipeline in Standing Rock
Bishop Gene Robinson, the first openly gay Episcopal bishop
An exciting reevaluation of America's moral center and an inspiring portrait of progressive faith-in-action, American Prophets will change the way we think about the intersection of politics and religion.
Since the ascendancy of the Religious Right in the 1970s, common wisdom holds that it is a coalition of fundamentalist powerbrokers who are the "moral majority," setting the standard for conservative Christian values and working to preserve the status quo.
But, as national religion reporter Jack Jenkins contends, the country is also driven by a vibrant, long-standing moral force from the left. Constituting an amorphous group of interfaith activists that goes by many names and takes many forms, this coalition has operated since America's founding — praying, protesting, and marching for common goals that have moved society forward. Throughout our history, the Religious Left has embodied and championed the progressive values at the heart of American democracy — abolition, labor reform, civil rights, environmental preservation.
Drawing on his years of reporting, Jenkins examines the re-emergence of progressive faith-based activism, detailing its origins and contrasting its goals with those of the Religious Right. Today's rapidly expanding interfaith coalition — which includes Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and other faiths — has become a force within the larger "resistance" movement. Jenkins profiles Washington political insiders — including former White House staffers and faith outreach directors for the campaigns of Barack Obama, John Kerry, and Hillary Clinton — as well as a new generation of progressive faith leaders at the forefront today, including:
Rev. William Barber II, leader of North Carolina's Moral Mondays and co-chair of the nationwide Poor People's campaign
Linda Sarsour, co-chair of the Women's March
Rev. Traci Blackmon, a pastor near Ferguson, Missouri who works to lift up black liberation efforts across the country
Sister Simone Campbell, head of the Catholic social justice lobby and the "Nuns on the Bus" tour organizer
Native American "water protectors" who demonstrated against the Dakota Access Pipeline in Standing Rock
Bishop Gene Robinson, the first openly gay Episcopal bishop
An exciting reevaluation of America's moral center and an inspiring portrait of progressive faith-in-action, American Prophets will change the way we think about the intersection of politics and religion.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published April 21, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 28, 2020
This book examines the history of left-wing activism and religious belief in the United States, largely (though not exclusively) Christian, during the first couple decades of the 21st century. Mostly it focuses on how these dynamics have expressed themselves at high levels of leadership in the U.S. government and in religious coalitions. Protests against gas pipelines are discussed, as are the influences of LGBTQ leaders.
Plenty of attention is also given to Trumpism. The book addresses the mystery of why American Christians (the white evangelicals, at least) leaned toward Trump in 2016 — a mystery for many, indeed, given that Trump, in his personal comportment and his political agenda, was the opposite of so much of what this demographic traditionally liked to imagine itself as embodying and standing for. The book answers, in part: This happened because "Christian nationalists" support Trump, and "Christian nationalism" is not so much about theology, church attendance, or ethics but rather about a firm identity with other Christian nationalists, an identity that is served through attention to political issues like "prayer in public schools, displaying religious symbols in public spaces, and the separation of church and state." Such people tend to prefer "authoritarian figures" and are "more likely to embrace the more unsavory hallmarks of Trumpism: negative views of immigrants, refugees, and Muslims."
The author's sympathies, as already captured by the title and subtitle, are made clear. I imagine that readers who tend to sympathize with the right-wing will also, nonetheless, find that this is a well researched history that provides a lot to grapple with and much food for thought.
Plenty of attention is also given to Trumpism. The book addresses the mystery of why American Christians (the white evangelicals, at least) leaned toward Trump in 2016 — a mystery for many, indeed, given that Trump, in his personal comportment and his political agenda, was the opposite of so much of what this demographic traditionally liked to imagine itself as embodying and standing for. The book answers, in part: This happened because "Christian nationalists" support Trump, and "Christian nationalism" is not so much about theology, church attendance, or ethics but rather about a firm identity with other Christian nationalists, an identity that is served through attention to political issues like "prayer in public schools, displaying religious symbols in public spaces, and the separation of church and state." Such people tend to prefer "authoritarian figures" and are "more likely to embrace the more unsavory hallmarks of Trumpism: negative views of immigrants, refugees, and Muslims."
The author's sympathies, as already captured by the title and subtitle, are made clear. I imagine that readers who tend to sympathize with the right-wing will also, nonetheless, find that this is a well researched history that provides a lot to grapple with and much food for thought.
Read
February 21, 2022This is long form journalism at its longest. While I love to read and learn from this style in articles, it is a little more difficult to swallow in book form. And few manage to develop a sense of style within this form. Rarely, a bit of Jenkin’s personality or wit popped through, but mostly he maintains the straight-forward prose that makes serious journalism so informative, but also so dry.
As for content, Jenkins pretty much takes one issue per chapter and covers Christian progressive participation in that issue. He is balanced in his presentation of different groups, highlighting their strengths, and not shying away from some of the controversies or issues that have arisen.
The word “roots” in the subtitle is a little misleading, as within each issue, he keeps the focus on the last decade or so. He touches on the fact that these “roots” go back to such and such point in the 19th or 20th century, but if you are looking for something deeper than that you will need to look elsewhere.
For those on the right who are unaware that there even is a “Christian left” or “religious left” and what they are up to, this is a good starting point. One thing that is easy to see is that there is still a lot of disagreement between those on the left about what they are about. There is robust discussion and it is all very interesting. The thing I find most admirable though, is how dedicated most of them are to nonviolence, even in the face of direct hostility and threats. Regardless of whether or not one agrees with all of their stances, there is something for us to learn here.
As for content, Jenkins pretty much takes one issue per chapter and covers Christian progressive participation in that issue. He is balanced in his presentation of different groups, highlighting their strengths, and not shying away from some of the controversies or issues that have arisen.
The word “roots” in the subtitle is a little misleading, as within each issue, he keeps the focus on the last decade or so. He touches on the fact that these “roots” go back to such and such point in the 19th or 20th century, but if you are looking for something deeper than that you will need to look elsewhere.
For those on the right who are unaware that there even is a “Christian left” or “religious left” and what they are up to, this is a good starting point. One thing that is easy to see is that there is still a lot of disagreement between those on the left about what they are about. There is robust discussion and it is all very interesting. The thing I find most admirable though, is how dedicated most of them are to nonviolence, even in the face of direct hostility and threats. Regardless of whether or not one agrees with all of their stances, there is something for us to learn here.
June 12, 2020
This is a great book. Mr. Jenkins uses focused storytelling to illuminate the often ignored force of the “Religious Left.” Lots of the key characters and ideas were new to me, and his analysis provides fresh frameworks for thinking through the interweaving of politics and religion if that’s something you’re into.
June 29, 2020
Favorite Quote = “Pope Francis is dope” -Chase Iron Eyes, Native American activist, attorney, politician, and member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe
August 24, 2021
Enlightening, and sometimes heavy read. Not a quick read. A lot to take in here. Explains a lot about the machinations between organizations of faith and the political world. Parts had me in tears. It turns out that it isn't just the Evangelicals that have their hands in our elections.
May 3, 2020
Religion and politics don't mix, right? WRONG!!
This book sets out to show that actually there's an entire movement of various religious factions promoting peace and helping other people rise up. Most people assume religion is all far right and political, but Jenkins goes on to show the historical basis for more of what he calls a "Religious Left" that support more progressive ideals.
The concept is fantastic. That our faith really is founded in the moral code to help others. That faith systems can congregate quickly to create change. And that our faith is meant to make changes for women's suffrage, labor reform, and civil rights.
What didn't work for me is the style. This guy is brilliant and he clearly takes a deep dive. He's also a legit reporter, so this doesn't read like a newspaper it reads like an essay or a thesis. I think I would have loved this book if it had been more conversational or written in a warmer style. He has a lot to say and did fantastic research. But it is DRY. Even though he works with an interviews some amazing people - ex President Obama, Linda Sarsour of the Womens March, Rev William Barber of the Moral Monday movement - their voices and personalities don't shine through. It reads like someone just reciting stats.
A great book filled with interesting facts, just not for me. But if you're looking to get informed this is a fantastic book.
This book sets out to show that actually there's an entire movement of various religious factions promoting peace and helping other people rise up. Most people assume religion is all far right and political, but Jenkins goes on to show the historical basis for more of what he calls a "Religious Left" that support more progressive ideals.
The concept is fantastic. That our faith really is founded in the moral code to help others. That faith systems can congregate quickly to create change. And that our faith is meant to make changes for women's suffrage, labor reform, and civil rights.
What didn't work for me is the style. This guy is brilliant and he clearly takes a deep dive. He's also a legit reporter, so this doesn't read like a newspaper it reads like an essay or a thesis. I think I would have loved this book if it had been more conversational or written in a warmer style. He has a lot to say and did fantastic research. But it is DRY. Even though he works with an interviews some amazing people - ex President Obama, Linda Sarsour of the Womens March, Rev William Barber of the Moral Monday movement - their voices and personalities don't shine through. It reads like someone just reciting stats.
A great book filled with interesting facts, just not for me. But if you're looking to get informed this is a fantastic book.
June 12, 2020
For those who embrace the Religious Right’s agenda of “Family Values” and the fight against LGBTQ rights and abortion, this book will irritate you, and, likely, you will learn nothing from it. For those who find the Religious Right suffocating, American Prophets will be balm to the soul. Jenkins describes a prophetic voice that encompasses a pro-life view for all humanity and family values for all sorts of families.
While some find security and resonance in the Religious Right, a late twentieth century crafted story that claims to be the guardian against a liberal onslaught against “Family Values,” Jenkins’ book describes a prophetic Religious Left, willing to grapple with the world in its complexity, and eager to cast a broader vision of human flourishing that accounts for more pieces of society. American Prophets shows a way to see God in people and contexts, piercing a vision of monolithic Christianity. It is an inclusive gospel of humanization, seeking to bring freedom and dignity to all. I liked the book.
Having recently taken university graduate classes with people who were repelled by the Religious Right, I felt solace to see Jenkins’ vision of authentic faith to be something different. Jenkins, a reporter for Religion News Service, shows an intersection between faith and the public square that has recently sprouted in a fertile field, tilled by greed, militarism, and “othering.” He describes real-time prophetic work that comes from spiritual people whose moral compass will not allow them to stay silent in this moment when structural injustice has been laid bare. It is prophetic, in that it continues to do what prophets have always done, imagine a better world. For those who want to see, American Prophets will show that there can be a moral center in progressive politics.
American Prophets uses storytelling to lay a foundation for the assertion that the Religious Left is creating multi-faith alliances of collected power. The Religious Left seeks to combat Christian Nationalism, which many see to be the narrative providing cover for White Supremacy. American Prophets does not coalesce around a founding narrative or single story. Instead, Jenkins uses many stories to show diverse efforts underway to grapple with an increased 21st century capacity to “other.”
Jenkins contends that Barack Obama’s signature, Affordable Care Act (ACA), became the catalyst to further divide tribal Christians into the Religious Right and Religious Left. Does being “Pro-Life,” the term co-opted by the Religious Right, allow a person to see more ways to nurture life in a political context than simply to outlaw abortion? Does the ACA mandate for employers to include birth control in an employee’s health insurance infringe on the “Family Values” envisioned by the Religious Right? Indeed, Jenkins identifies the election of Barack Obama to be the signifier that shows that modern progressivism can have a religious bent, and that there can be a strain of politics which will build on the Biblical prophetic tradition that advocates justice for all and creation care outside a “Family Values” political narrative.
As expected, Jenkins takes time to confirm how the election of Donald Trump continues to polarize Christians. Is Donald Trump the anointed one to make space for Christian Nationalism? The Religious Right has grown in power by telling a story that Christian Nationalism is worthwhile and benign. Whether or not Seventh-day Adventists should be a part of that group is a contentious topic for some.
Jenkins sees the Religious Left as the “beating heart” of modern progressivism, though actors in it may not identity with the label. North Carolina Reverend, William J. Barber, one who doesn’t identify as part of the “Religious Left,” birthed the Poor People’s Campaign (https://www.poorpeoplescampaign.org) in collaboration with Reverend Dr. Liz Theoharis at Union Theological Seminary. American Prophets seeks to describe the most impactful pieces of a movement that continues the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Those involved view themselves as keepers of the story and witness bearers to the truth. Leaders in the Religious Left recognize spirituality in participants who may not name themselves to be associated with any particular religion.
Jenkins describes the Sanctuary Movement birthed during the Obama presidency in the context of immigration concerns. Initially, it sought to hold the Obama administration accountable to its own guidelines that discouraged ICE raids in sensitive locations. Donald Trump’s rhetoric has fueled the Sanctuary Movement. Trump’s family separation policy, defended by Attorney General Sessions to be simple governmental authority and quite Biblical (Romans 13), quickly became an embarrassment for the Trump administration. Jenkins said this was the “single most uniform theological denunciation of policy I have ever encountered as a religion journalist” (p. 139) Sessions resigned a week later. At times, matters of immigration apparently do transcend party affiliation.
“Prophets over Profits” is the most contentious chapter in the book, at least from my Alabama perspective. Jenkins describes the Christian critique of capitalism, citing Liberation Theology and contemporary US activists, particularly Sister Simone Campbell. Here, the Religious Left continues not to view the world in separate siloes, but as a cohesive whole that requires, at the least, employee protection and a living wage to start an onslaught against entrenched structures that stand against equality. Jenkins says the work of the Religious Left is one that is broad and deep. For those steeped in individualism, this chapter will require stepping outside of one’s narrative.
Jenkins writes about faith-rooted LGBTQ rights. In this chapter, entitled “The Hard Work of Transformation,” Jenkins describes how sacred meets secular and how protest and political action can guarantee the rights of all. He references Seventh-day Adventist, Eliel Cruz, founder of #FaithfullyLGBT.
Pulling together several strands to weave a vision of human flourishing, Jenkins’ storytelling approach attempts to show that society needs some solidarity to push back against excesses of corporate greed and xenophobia. The final chapter, “The Future of Faith,” contends that arguments, theology, and protest will develop a coalition. Furthermore, authentic faith will lead to political action, but this action will be polar opposite from what is dictated by “Family Values” of the Religious Right. Wild Goose Festival (https://wildgoosefestival.org), Faith in Action, (https://faithinaction.org) and Prophetic Resistance Summit (http://www.theologyofresistance.org/a...) are some of the branches that bring political heft to the values of the Prophetic Left as described in American Prophets.
I read American Prophets with an accompanying sense of comfort as I realized that other Christians are seeking to exercise authentic faith in the public square that shows a willingness to live in God’s Kingdom outside a dominant culture of Christian Nationalism. Yet, the thought did cross my mind that, in the end, this group of prophets, the Left, is beginning to “other” those who disagree. Politics always involves stratifying competing rights, but must prophetic Christianity always demonstrate anger? Is emerging power the logical natural and authentic outgrowth of the emerging church movement? Does true contemporary faith always call for prophets of resistance? Should the Religious Left come to power, will it temper its coercive capabilities? Will the Prophetic Left become another outlet for American Rage?
I believe social order will not be saved by common ground but by an emphasis on common humanity. American Prophets brings dignity to people who have been castigated by the Religious Right. After I read the book, I did not have a clear sense that the Religious Left has a settled guiding story that could function as a “founding narrative” in the way that “preserving family values” rallies the Religious Right.
Maybe true faith must exist outside a human narrative. If this is so, perhaps, it is fortuitous that the Religious Left has not yet been bound by a founding story.
While some find security and resonance in the Religious Right, a late twentieth century crafted story that claims to be the guardian against a liberal onslaught against “Family Values,” Jenkins’ book describes a prophetic Religious Left, willing to grapple with the world in its complexity, and eager to cast a broader vision of human flourishing that accounts for more pieces of society. American Prophets shows a way to see God in people and contexts, piercing a vision of monolithic Christianity. It is an inclusive gospel of humanization, seeking to bring freedom and dignity to all. I liked the book.
Having recently taken university graduate classes with people who were repelled by the Religious Right, I felt solace to see Jenkins’ vision of authentic faith to be something different. Jenkins, a reporter for Religion News Service, shows an intersection between faith and the public square that has recently sprouted in a fertile field, tilled by greed, militarism, and “othering.” He describes real-time prophetic work that comes from spiritual people whose moral compass will not allow them to stay silent in this moment when structural injustice has been laid bare. It is prophetic, in that it continues to do what prophets have always done, imagine a better world. For those who want to see, American Prophets will show that there can be a moral center in progressive politics.
American Prophets uses storytelling to lay a foundation for the assertion that the Religious Left is creating multi-faith alliances of collected power. The Religious Left seeks to combat Christian Nationalism, which many see to be the narrative providing cover for White Supremacy. American Prophets does not coalesce around a founding narrative or single story. Instead, Jenkins uses many stories to show diverse efforts underway to grapple with an increased 21st century capacity to “other.”
Jenkins contends that Barack Obama’s signature, Affordable Care Act (ACA), became the catalyst to further divide tribal Christians into the Religious Right and Religious Left. Does being “Pro-Life,” the term co-opted by the Religious Right, allow a person to see more ways to nurture life in a political context than simply to outlaw abortion? Does the ACA mandate for employers to include birth control in an employee’s health insurance infringe on the “Family Values” envisioned by the Religious Right? Indeed, Jenkins identifies the election of Barack Obama to be the signifier that shows that modern progressivism can have a religious bent, and that there can be a strain of politics which will build on the Biblical prophetic tradition that advocates justice for all and creation care outside a “Family Values” political narrative.
As expected, Jenkins takes time to confirm how the election of Donald Trump continues to polarize Christians. Is Donald Trump the anointed one to make space for Christian Nationalism? The Religious Right has grown in power by telling a story that Christian Nationalism is worthwhile and benign. Whether or not Seventh-day Adventists should be a part of that group is a contentious topic for some.
Jenkins sees the Religious Left as the “beating heart” of modern progressivism, though actors in it may not identity with the label. North Carolina Reverend, William J. Barber, one who doesn’t identify as part of the “Religious Left,” birthed the Poor People’s Campaign (https://www.poorpeoplescampaign.org) in collaboration with Reverend Dr. Liz Theoharis at Union Theological Seminary. American Prophets seeks to describe the most impactful pieces of a movement that continues the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Those involved view themselves as keepers of the story and witness bearers to the truth. Leaders in the Religious Left recognize spirituality in participants who may not name themselves to be associated with any particular religion.
Jenkins describes the Sanctuary Movement birthed during the Obama presidency in the context of immigration concerns. Initially, it sought to hold the Obama administration accountable to its own guidelines that discouraged ICE raids in sensitive locations. Donald Trump’s rhetoric has fueled the Sanctuary Movement. Trump’s family separation policy, defended by Attorney General Sessions to be simple governmental authority and quite Biblical (Romans 13), quickly became an embarrassment for the Trump administration. Jenkins said this was the “single most uniform theological denunciation of policy I have ever encountered as a religion journalist” (p. 139) Sessions resigned a week later. At times, matters of immigration apparently do transcend party affiliation.
“Prophets over Profits” is the most contentious chapter in the book, at least from my Alabama perspective. Jenkins describes the Christian critique of capitalism, citing Liberation Theology and contemporary US activists, particularly Sister Simone Campbell. Here, the Religious Left continues not to view the world in separate siloes, but as a cohesive whole that requires, at the least, employee protection and a living wage to start an onslaught against entrenched structures that stand against equality. Jenkins says the work of the Religious Left is one that is broad and deep. For those steeped in individualism, this chapter will require stepping outside of one’s narrative.
Jenkins writes about faith-rooted LGBTQ rights. In this chapter, entitled “The Hard Work of Transformation,” Jenkins describes how sacred meets secular and how protest and political action can guarantee the rights of all. He references Seventh-day Adventist, Eliel Cruz, founder of #FaithfullyLGBT.
Pulling together several strands to weave a vision of human flourishing, Jenkins’ storytelling approach attempts to show that society needs some solidarity to push back against excesses of corporate greed and xenophobia. The final chapter, “The Future of Faith,” contends that arguments, theology, and protest will develop a coalition. Furthermore, authentic faith will lead to political action, but this action will be polar opposite from what is dictated by “Family Values” of the Religious Right. Wild Goose Festival (https://wildgoosefestival.org), Faith in Action, (https://faithinaction.org) and Prophetic Resistance Summit (http://www.theologyofresistance.org/a...) are some of the branches that bring political heft to the values of the Prophetic Left as described in American Prophets.
I read American Prophets with an accompanying sense of comfort as I realized that other Christians are seeking to exercise authentic faith in the public square that shows a willingness to live in God’s Kingdom outside a dominant culture of Christian Nationalism. Yet, the thought did cross my mind that, in the end, this group of prophets, the Left, is beginning to “other” those who disagree. Politics always involves stratifying competing rights, but must prophetic Christianity always demonstrate anger? Is emerging power the logical natural and authentic outgrowth of the emerging church movement? Does true contemporary faith always call for prophets of resistance? Should the Religious Left come to power, will it temper its coercive capabilities? Will the Prophetic Left become another outlet for American Rage?
I believe social order will not be saved by common ground but by an emphasis on common humanity. American Prophets brings dignity to people who have been castigated by the Religious Right. After I read the book, I did not have a clear sense that the Religious Left has a settled guiding story that could function as a “founding narrative” in the way that “preserving family values” rallies the Religious Right.
Maybe true faith must exist outside a human narrative. If this is so, perhaps, it is fortuitous that the Religious Left has not yet been bound by a founding story.
May 10, 2020
One theme is a generally amorphous structure of “religious left” groups and a focus on individual leaders (e.g. Sister Simone Campbell and her advocacy for the ACA; on the other hand, an example of more community-based action may be houses of worship as deportation sanctuaries).
Jenkins mentions the perception that the US “religious left” often reacts to terms of conversation set by the right. Some are reticent to self-identify as the “religious left” (instead claiming to carry an authority from the “moral center of our traditions” - Rev William Barber).
In light of the religious activism Jenkins traces towards refugee resettlement to the environment -> maybe we are approaching moments where the terms of national religious conversations are shaped by the left.
Note the book’s subtitle is misleading. This isn’t about religious roots of progressivism, it’s a panorama of the religious left in the last 10 years.
Jenkins mentions the perception that the US “religious left” often reacts to terms of conversation set by the right. Some are reticent to self-identify as the “religious left” (instead claiming to carry an authority from the “moral center of our traditions” - Rev William Barber).
In light of the religious activism Jenkins traces towards refugee resettlement to the environment -> maybe we are approaching moments where the terms of national religious conversations are shaped by the left.
Note the book’s subtitle is misleading. This isn’t about religious roots of progressivism, it’s a panorama of the religious left in the last 10 years.
Read
February 14, 2024A journalist’s look at left leaning religious activism in the US, mostly during the Obama and Trump years and mostly focusing on Christian traditions.
The books covers the involvement of faith based organizations and religious activists in the ACA passage (ch 1), Obama’s campaign (ch 2), pushback to Trump’s campaign and election (ch 3), Moral Mondays protests (ch 4), Ferguson protests and Charlottesville counter protests (ch 5), immigration reform and sanctuary churches (ch 6), creation care (ch 7), democratic socialism (ch 8), LGBTQ activism (ch 9), interfaith coalitions (ch 10), and democratic presidential campaigns (ch 11). It’s a good overview if you’re interested in the role of religion (though again, mostly Christianity) in the last few decades of left politics.
The books covers the involvement of faith based organizations and religious activists in the ACA passage (ch 1), Obama’s campaign (ch 2), pushback to Trump’s campaign and election (ch 3), Moral Mondays protests (ch 4), Ferguson protests and Charlottesville counter protests (ch 5), immigration reform and sanctuary churches (ch 6), creation care (ch 7), democratic socialism (ch 8), LGBTQ activism (ch 9), interfaith coalitions (ch 10), and democratic presidential campaigns (ch 11). It’s a good overview if you’re interested in the role of religion (though again, mostly Christianity) in the last few decades of left politics.
June 18, 2021
Definitely a 4.5 rating for this excellent book on what some folks refer to as the “Religious Left”. Perhaps the subtitle is a better indication of what readers can expect: The Religious Roots of Progressive Politics and the Ongoing Fight for the Soul of the Country.
This was a much needed balm for my soul, especially after what I witnessed over the past several years. There is a place for the church in the work to obey and honor the teachings of Jesus. And there is a place for everyone at the table.
If you’re a fan of Dr. Rev. William Barber Jr and Jim Wallis, this is a must-read. They among many other “prophets” are featured in this thoughtful and eye-opening book.
This was a much needed balm for my soul, especially after what I witnessed over the past several years. There is a place for the church in the work to obey and honor the teachings of Jesus. And there is a place for everyone at the table.
If you’re a fan of Dr. Rev. William Barber Jr and Jim Wallis, this is a must-read. They among many other “prophets” are featured in this thoughtful and eye-opening book.
September 1, 2020
A really interesting overview of the religious left in the U.S. and the policy and cultural areas in which it has an impact. Highly recommend as an intro to the topic. Plus, it made my feelings on religion a bit less categorically negative.
February 21, 2023
I must thank my friend Gary Peluso for putting me on to Jack Jenkins. This is an outstanding book outlining the origin of the "religious left." Published before the 2020 election, Jenkins thoughts about the election of Biden and the defeat of Trump are absent. But I am clear it might not have been possible without the progressive politics of people of faith.
June 24, 2020
A really well-written book that takes an in-depth look at a contemporary and often under-studied part of American life. Some parts are admittedly dense, with lots of names talking about who did what, and some parts are crying out for a bit more story and a bit less of a listing of facts — two factors that kept me from giving this five stars. But Jack Jenkins is a great reporter and author, and I’m excited to see what he’s got coming next.
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August 10, 2020Working on a review for CT.
May 17, 2020
This is an enjoyable series of vignettes describing leaders associated with the religious left, though most of them wouldn't embrace that term. There is a good deal of reporting on different movements and moments in the last five years or so and how religious leaders played a part. Jack is a journalist, not a sociologist or a historian, so it is shorter on conclusions, but if you read between the lines of his analysis, there is plenty here to diagnose why the religious left doesn't function like the religious right does. (9/10).
January 24, 2022
The Religious Left is notoriously difficult to define. This is partly because many who appear solidly to fit the description, defy the title. In this book, Jenkins sets out to tell stories of the Religious Left and their impact on politics in the last two decades. When I first saw this book, I thought it was more of a history of the roots of the Religious Left, somewhat similar to Kevin Kruse’s book on the origins of the Religious Right in the 1930s. While Jenkins briefly mentions some of this older history, this is not a history book. Or at least, its a history book of the first 20 years of the 21st century.
This is a helpful, even necessary, book. The Religious Right dominates the religiously informed political discourse in America. “Evangelical” has basically become a synonym for Republican. If you’re actively religious, in the eyes of non-religious people, the assumption is you are conservative and Republican. The reality is that there is a vibrant, energetic, diverse and passionate Religious Left. Unlike the Religious Right, which is overwhelmingly white and Christian, the Religious Left is much more ethnically and religiously diverse.
It reminds me of a conversation I had prior to the last presidential election. An acquaintance of mine, himself a conservative Christian, stated that the majority of Christians will vote for Trump. After I held in my vomit, I pointed out that such a statement is racist, since the truth is while most white evangelical Christians did vote Trump, nearly 90% of black Christians vote Democrat. Apparently, these religiously motivated voters were not even on his radar.
Jenkins’ book helps put such voters on our radar. He writes of Catholic nuns who advocated for the Affordable Care Act and the Obama campaign’s outreach to religious folks. He introduces readers to LGBTQ religious activists as well Native Americans, Jews and Muslims. In the end, we see a wide-ranging and diverse movement.
As someone who grew up in a white conservative evangelical tradition and has since moved to the left, I loved this book. I was familiar with some of these stories and people, but enjoyed learning more. Personally, I hope the Religious Left continues to grow. The way things have continued to deteriorate since the last election, we need the Religious Left.
I suppose the only thing I wish this book had was some sort of index of organizations and ways to get involved. Overall though, great book.
This is a helpful, even necessary, book. The Religious Right dominates the religiously informed political discourse in America. “Evangelical” has basically become a synonym for Republican. If you’re actively religious, in the eyes of non-religious people, the assumption is you are conservative and Republican. The reality is that there is a vibrant, energetic, diverse and passionate Religious Left. Unlike the Religious Right, which is overwhelmingly white and Christian, the Religious Left is much more ethnically and religiously diverse.
It reminds me of a conversation I had prior to the last presidential election. An acquaintance of mine, himself a conservative Christian, stated that the majority of Christians will vote for Trump. After I held in my vomit, I pointed out that such a statement is racist, since the truth is while most white evangelical Christians did vote Trump, nearly 90% of black Christians vote Democrat. Apparently, these religiously motivated voters were not even on his radar.
Jenkins’ book helps put such voters on our radar. He writes of Catholic nuns who advocated for the Affordable Care Act and the Obama campaign’s outreach to religious folks. He introduces readers to LGBTQ religious activists as well Native Americans, Jews and Muslims. In the end, we see a wide-ranging and diverse movement.
As someone who grew up in a white conservative evangelical tradition and has since moved to the left, I loved this book. I was familiar with some of these stories and people, but enjoyed learning more. Personally, I hope the Religious Left continues to grow. The way things have continued to deteriorate since the last election, we need the Religious Left.
I suppose the only thing I wish this book had was some sort of index of organizations and ways to get involved. Overall though, great book.
May 5, 2020
I found this book interesting although it wasn't exactly what I was expecting. I was expecting a history of Progressive politics, where it came from, what its sources were (are). What this book details is a review of several current issues near and dear to the progressive heart (climate change, immigration, LGBTQ+ and Presidential campaign faith outreaches and others) and reviews how many different religious groups and persons are currently active fighting for that cause.
I am not coming from a progressive background, quite the opposite. I was hoping to understand the position(s) of the religious left on these issues in a way that I could compare and contrast with the Religious Right (with whom I am much more familiar, although not very sympathetic). That did not happen. I know a lot more names and organizations but I don't have much more of an understanding.
If you are coming from the Religious left and feel that no one is fighting your fight, then this book will be an encouragement to you. If you are on the right, this book isn't going to change your mind as to whether your position on any of these issues is right or wrong.
I am not coming from a progressive background, quite the opposite. I was hoping to understand the position(s) of the religious left on these issues in a way that I could compare and contrast with the Religious Right (with whom I am much more familiar, although not very sympathetic). That did not happen. I know a lot more names and organizations but I don't have much more of an understanding.
If you are coming from the Religious left and feel that no one is fighting your fight, then this book will be an encouragement to you. If you are on the right, this book isn't going to change your mind as to whether your position on any of these issues is right or wrong.
October 11, 2022
Jack Jenkins describes the work of various leaders of "progressive" political initiatives fueled by their religious faith. While the religious right constructs the paper tiger of a "secularism" opposed to its white evangelicalism, Jenkins describes dozens of justice seeking communities forming across multiple faiths critical of the religious right and its cozy relationship with capitalism, operative white supremacy and male dominance. He describes religious faith at the heart of the Occupy movement, Standing Rock, Moral Mondays, the new sanctuary movement, LGBTQ rights, the Women's March, the Poor Peoples campaign, and more; all inspired and driven by people of faith seeking God's justice for the poor, disadvantaged and dispossessed. Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, Jew, LDS, Muslim, Native American. He describes a multi-faith movement coalescing around political advocacy challenging the decisively regressive forces at play in our political culture. The religious right tacitly seeks a resuscitated colonialism. This movement, in all its diversity, is animated by a post-colonial faithfulness.
March 4, 2021
Listened to this on audio- a pretty broad-ranged look at current faith influences on progressive politics. As a Christian with a strong progressive moral worldview, this book was comforting to see the wide range of people who also are driven by their faith to promote progressive causes. It was also really interesting to see the wide range of religious influences, not just from Christians, but also from Jewish, Muslim, Native American spiritualism and other faiths. The only downside is that because it covered such a wide range, it felt like none of them get really deep. Also, personally, I wanted more depth about the specific theologies and scriptural analyses that drives involvement in progressive politics. That isn't really what this book is though, so don't know that its a knock on the book. Overall, really interesting read that just felt a little more like a long news article than and in depth exploration of progressive faith in politics.
May 21, 2021
When you think of faith and politics, do you think of one specific group and no one else? Do you think that they don’t mix? Enter: American Prophets.
This book gives a voice to the past two decades of work of the religious left. It captures many faith movements such as Nuns on the Bus, advocacy for the ACA during Obama’s presidency, oil and gas protests by the spiritual Indigenous American community and support of movements like BLM, LGBTQ+ and Women’s rights, and places of worship being sanctuaries.
It offers a counter-perspective on what has been traditionally deemed “America’s moral compass.”
American Prophets is a reminder that faith and politics have always mixed, and that this interfaith coalition of Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and other faiths have helped to move society forward and is a force for the civil rights and more.
This book gives a voice to the past two decades of work of the religious left. It captures many faith movements such as Nuns on the Bus, advocacy for the ACA during Obama’s presidency, oil and gas protests by the spiritual Indigenous American community and support of movements like BLM, LGBTQ+ and Women’s rights, and places of worship being sanctuaries.
It offers a counter-perspective on what has been traditionally deemed “America’s moral compass.”
American Prophets is a reminder that faith and politics have always mixed, and that this interfaith coalition of Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and other faiths have helped to move society forward and is a force for the civil rights and more.
July 1, 2023
Author Jack Jenkins uses his considerable storytelling skills to record accounts, from mostly the last 20 years, of political and protest movements on the left which were inspired by genuine and deep religious faith. The passage of President Obama's signature Affordable Care Act health bill is featured as well as Occupy Wall Street protests, climate change protests, gun violence and more. From the halls of political power to the open fields of the Wild Goose Festival, Jenkins highlights many people of faith and their struggles to make the world better while challenging injustice. A hopeful read for religious believers who find themselves disillusioned by the religious right or political conservatism dominating the faith landscape.
February 6, 2023
"The Religious Left is the beating heart of modern progressivism; although rarely acknowledged by members of either political party, it is one of the Left's most secret of weapons and has the potential to impact US politics for years to come."
A revealing discussion of the role of faith in progressive politics in this century, connecting the religious threads of Ferguson, Charlottesville, Standing Rock, and more.
And full of encouragement for those of us involved in this work.
A revealing discussion of the role of faith in progressive politics in this century, connecting the religious threads of Ferguson, Charlottesville, Standing Rock, and more.
And full of encouragement for those of us involved in this work.
May 29, 2020
I had minor issues with this book, such as the interchangeable uses of “left,” “liberal,” and “progressive,” but overall I thought this book was near perfect. I’m sure that someone more enmeshed in faith-based activism would have more substantive critiques; for me, though, this was a fresh look at familiar subjects.
May 28, 2022
I found this book interesting and learned that there is actually a Christian Left besides the Christian Right. Seems the Left goes along more with the Democratic party. It was interesting reading about the people and organizations using their faith to lead them in what they feel is best for our country.
November 6, 2022
Things change fast. Most of the information in this book might have been true at the time of writing but it feels very dated now. The authors optimism about progressive religion reads very naive now. It’s hard to find any spaces in public life where progressive Christians have a serious/relevant presence in 2022. I hope it doesn’t stay this way…
March 15, 2021
Pleasant listen during late winter walks. Constant repetition between chapters feels a bit disrespectful to those who make the commitment to this book — thankful I could accelerate the narration speed.
Read
January 27, 2022DNF'd.
I was hoping for a historical account of people the author considered "prophets." Instead, this book is about people he's personally interviewed. It's too narrow a time period for what I was hoping to learn, so this book is not for me.
I was hoping for a historical account of people the author considered "prophets." Instead, this book is about people he's personally interviewed. It's too narrow a time period for what I was hoping to learn, so this book is not for me.
Read
May 24, 2020Great read - an important book outlining the very real fact that religion is not inherently tied to the Republican party and that more liberal religious folks have an impact.
February 13, 2022
Jenkins, a religion journalist whom I've followed for years, provides a solid, comprehensive, although somewhat scattered overview of the diffuse religious movements that collectively comprise the "religious left," not as a new phenomenon, but as one of the elements that has defined America since the abolitionist movement. He presents his work in a sequence of vignettes, many of them from his work at ThinkProgress and the Religion News Service, hopscotching across the country and a variety of religious traditions, although he's most knowledgeable about progressive Christianity. Some of these are subjects I was very familiar with already, such as the religious movement to protect the environment and respond to climate change. And, of course, progressive religious movements were ubiquitous in the fight against Trump and Trumpism. I did learn a lot about the religious history of the sanctuary movement to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation, and there are some good chapters about LGBTQ movements in religion. I found the closing section, on a kind of progressive Christian Coachella in the woods of North Carolina, a fascinating illustration of the religious left — not the uniform monolithic interplay of religion and politics seen in the GOP and religious right, but a multifaceted and periodically squabbling diverse and growing subculture with its own parallel institutions of churches, preachers, and politicos.
July 22, 2020
This is a good book. As the title says it is a survey of the religious roots of progressive politics. It is not exclusively focused on Christianity but that is the dominant focus. It is very informative and I must admit I did not appreciate the degree to which religious organizations where / are involved in progressive politics. I read this in parallel with Dr. Albert Mohler's "The Gathering Storm" which while not quite addressing the same subject matter made for an interesting combination as The Gathering Storm certainly is written from a conservative viewpoint.
A timely and interesting book for readers on both sides of the political aisle who are interested in understanding more about the interaction between faith and politics in American society.
A timely and interesting book for readers on both sides of the political aisle who are interested in understanding more about the interaction between faith and politics in American society.
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