Embracing Diversity: Faith, Vocation, and the Promise of America

by Darrell Jodock, William Nelsen

Throughout its history, America has been confronted with two alternative views of its identity. Is it, according to one argument, a deeply Christian nation called to purity and uniformity in the face of a challenging world? Or is it, according to the other argument, a beacon of hope and openness, a land in which a variety of people can work side by side in justice and for a common good? In this timely and needed book, the authors challenge readers--especially readers in Christian communities--to step up to the promise of an America that works for the good of everyone who calls this nation home. Certainly, part of that challenge is recognizing where America has failed, and the authors do not step back from that challenge. But a tone of hope prevails throughout as a gracious and compelling case is made that America's better angels exist and can motivate us to create a more just society

188 pages, Paperback

Published November 9, 2021

About the author

Darrell Jodock is Emeritus Professor of religion and former Drell and Adeline Bernhardson Distinguished Professor of Lutheran Studies at Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota.

Reviews

[Marilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nonfiction. Timely topic.
Interesting discussions about the state of living in America’s communities — in regard to leadership, ethical values and courage in making ethical decisions, and civility. A comment that today fewer people know how to be civil, fewer even know what civility is. The theme of the book is “ love our neighbors without exception.
Chapter 4 was particularly excellent.
I would have liked to see a broader discussion of diversity not limited to religious and racial topics, historically and currently.

[Nancy Nelson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I struggled with this book and is lack of inclusion. The authors focused on color, socioeconomic class, and non Christian spiritual traditions but blatantly avoided discussion of gender and orientation.