Description: "Examines the history of worship in the Black Church in America, the enduring effects of white supremacy on its liturgical heritage, and proffers a new liturgical paradigm, using a womanist hermeneutic"--
Review Quotes: ⭐ Advance Praise & Reviews ⭐ "Centers Black women's experience and calls the church to communal righteousness."-- Christian Century
"A groundbreaking articulation of worship as a liberative, justice-centered practice."-- Journal of Black Catholic Theological Symposium "Challenges communities to embrace worship that embodies justice and collective healing."-- Catholic Books Review "An innovative contribution to womanist theology and liturgical practice."-- Religious Studies Review "True worship is inseparable from the pursuit of justice and the dignity of every body."-- Christian Ethics Today "Lisa Allen has written a vigorous, well-informed, and provocative historical account of Black Church worship traditions. She has brought together insights from a rich set of sources, and has framed her reflection in light of significant developments and figures in womanist theology. This book is a must read for understanding Black liturgical history and the key issues facing current Black Church traditions. This is engaged, relevant scholarship with a discerning heart, mapping territory we need to know."--Don E. Saliers, William R. Cannon Distinguished Professor of Theology and Worship, Emeritus, Theologian-in-Residence, Emory University "At the heart of the Black Church experience is worship. At its nerve center resides the divine imperatives of love and justice. Lisa Allen's signature work leads us into the fierce faithfulness of Womanist theology, woven through the advocating and clearing spaces of worship. In action and instruction, Dr. Allen reflects the very wisdom contained within these pages."--Alton B. Pollard III, President and Professor of Religion and Culture, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary "There is no doubt that Allen's book will inspire future pastoral and practical theological work, and perhaps even give rise to creative new modes of worship planning and performance. "- Xavier M. Montecel, St. Mary's University, San Antonio, Journal of Moral Theology, Vol. 12, No. 1 (2023): 145-165