Truth's Table

February 14, 2022
In this powerful debut, Truth’s Table podcasters Edmondson, Higgins, and Uwan break down religion, relationships, and race from a Black female Christian perspective. Contending that “all theology is political” and all spirituality practical, the authors deliver a series of essays that draw on U.S. history, biblical interpretation, and personal anecdotes to address issues as varied as dating, family, resistance, and reparations. For example, Higgins explores “protest as spiritual practice,” arguing that racial justice protests affirm that the “people’s power was built in by God, not bestowed by the supremacy of one person over another.” Though the authors present a united voice, they benefit from the diversity of their experiences; Uwan contributes a chapter on being single, Edmondson on marriage, and Higgins on divorce. They also address the complex relationship between Christian forgiveness and justice, Blackness as a reflection of God’s image, and the false allure of “racial reconciliation.” The authors bounce between scholarly quotes and meme culture slang, providing a lively and at times heartrending reflection on faith, race, and gender. This translates the success of their podcast to the printed page to great effect. Agent: Chris Park, DeFiore and Co.

May 1, 2022
Theologian Ekemini Uwan, pastor Michelle Higgins, and educator and facilitator Christina Edmondson, hosts of the hit podcast Truth's Table, deliver a long-overdue collection of essays for and by Black Christian women. Black women are arguably the largest demographic of professing Christians in America, yet their point of view is often sidelined. However, these self-professed midwives of culture and advocates for grace and truth have created a table with many seats, around which Black Christian women can gather. Focusing on the themes of life, love, and liberation, the trio writes with radical honesty and vulnerability as they openly discuss topics usually whispered about among congregants and rarely addressed by leadership. Uwan's "Decolonized Discipleship" explores what it really means to decolonize Christianity, while Edmondson's "Disciplining the Church" addresses the tangible impact a just and disciplined church could have, and Higgins' "Love and Justice in Multiethnic Worship" is a self-aware exposition on what true diversity across ethnicities might look like. The authors bare their souls and create a safe space for readers to explore these essential topics presented with powerful injections of love and grace. If the church is experiencing the birthing pains of renewal, then these are the women to have by its side.

COPYRIGHT(2022) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.