Description
Congregations and community ministries are critical for addressing the complexities that arise from mass incarceration in the United States. Using the lens of public theology, this course examines the social and mental health issues giving rise to criminality, police as contributors to public safety and well-being while also prone to stereotyping, harsh treatment and acts of violence, as well as the shooting of unarmed citizens. In addition, attention will be paid to the U.S. prison-industrial-complex where in 2013, 2.3 million people were incarcerated, the majority being persons of color. Using an ethical, theological, and Christological investigation of scripture, doctrine, as well as church tradition, the course will pay particular attention to the intersection of race, class, gender and cultural analysis as a platform for creating robust faith-based advocacy and community leadership. COURSE MEETS IN CHICAGO IN ADDITION TO REGISTERING FOR SCUPE COURSES AT LUTHER SEMINARY, STUDE