This is a complete overview of the liberation theology movement ideally suited for a thorough study of the major questions and important theologians that have contributed to the debate. It outlines and brings together into a single unified account liberation theology's alternate vision for providing the possibility of meaningful historical existence for humans in the world today.
The author translates the Christian vision of liberation theologians from Latin America into more general theological and cultural categories familiar to the English-speaking world and shows how that vision makes a unified interpretation of Christian doctrine: This is accomplished in two ways. First, liberation theology must be seen as a response to massive human suffering witnessed throughout the world today. This human agony is largely caused by human beings and the social and political structures we create, and liberation theology addresses this dilemma with the tradition of Christian wisdom and direct imperatives that have universal and trans-cultural significance. The second goal is achieved by showing the connection between liberation principles and the major doctrines of Christian belief. The book treats God, Jesus Christ, faith, grace, the Church, sacraments, ministry and spirituality.