Black Prophetic Patriotism: Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s Message, Ministry, and Legacy

This volume critically and constructively examines Jeremiah Wright Jr.’s life and legacy, focusing on his patriotic promotion of inclusion within the church and society.
The mainstream media disrespectfully reduced Wright to a viral soundbite. The condemnation of Wright and the devaluing of his name and contributions testify to how black liberation theology and black prophetic witness and activism have been misunderstood by Christians in the United States across racial lines. The contributors offer a nuanced discussion of Wright’s sermons, ministry, and legacy. By revisiting Wright’s controversial sermons in the context of racial injustices during the presidencies of Barack Obama and Donald Trump, we contend that Wright exemplified a commitment to prophetic patriotism and courageously spoke the truth about national sins despite the costs. Prophetic patriotism has been and remains necessary to inspire America to strive to fulfill its noble democratic ideals.

Jonathan Chism is Associate Professor of History at the University of Houston-Downtown, USA.

LaMont Johnson is Assistant Professor of Practical Ministry, Preaching & Worship and University Chaplain at Shaw University, USA.