Down, Up, and Over: Slave Religion and Black Theology

"Down, Up, and Over" traces the complex relationship between White Protestantism, Black Slave Christianity, and post-modern Black Liberation Theology. Though Dwight Hopkins' political and theological stances may not always resonate with all readers, his historical culling of and comparison between Black and White American Christianity is fascinating. Regardless of one's political and/or theological positioning, it would be difficult to read this work without an increasing empathy for what Black Americans endured from their White Christian "brothers and sisters." Hopkins' research into primary sources offers a detailed examination of what enslaved African Americans endured and believed. His passionate presentation transports readers into the very soul and shoes of their forefathers and mothers of the faith. The overall message of the book can lead anyone with an open mind and sensitive heart to a greater understanding of the historic African American Christian experience and current African American Christian theology. The reader need not agree with all the political and theological conclusions in order to benefit from the contextual and cultural explanation of modern Black theology based upon past Black spirituality. Reviewer: Robert W. Kellemen, Ph.D. is the author of "Soul Physicians," "Spiritual Friends," and "Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction."