The Truth Will Set You Free

by Samuel L. Hoard

The Reverend Samuel L. Hoard, tells his life story, including struggles with racism in society and the church during the civil rights era, and his successful attempt to become an LCMS pastor. Hoard traces his experiences growing up in St. Louis in the 1940's, as a pastor in America's urban environments, and as a military chaplain in Vietnam and Germany.



The book urgently encourages us to stand up for ourselves and our neighbors, but not become embittered in the process. The Truth Will Set You Free is intriguing to read, offering greater understanding in relating to one another in the service of the Lord and in the care of humankind.



He sets forth a confessional Lutheran model for black ministry.

160 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2004

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This autobiography was a wonderful read. It shows so beautifully how a person's religious beliefs and their behavior can and should meld together. And it has some really good discussion of the doctrine of vocation, what it means to live out the different roles God calls you to. Black minister Samuel L. Hoard worked hard to live his life as a testimony to his belief that Christ died to save everyone and loves everyone equally. Whether that meant participating in a Civil Rights demonstration or praying with a dying soldier in the middle of a battle, he did what he was called to do.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who would like to read about the struggle for equality from the perspective of a Christian. Or to anyone who isn't sure how to fight against prejudice and injustice in a loving, Christ-like way!