The above title, the presentation of Dr. Elizabeth Amoah, sums the excitement and hope generated at the recently concluded Black Theology Conference at Queens Birmingham (UK), July 13-15, 2007. Participants heard a diverse range of views (panel presentations and keynote speakers) on theological and biblical perspectives on the legacies of the Transatlantic Slavery. Three key challenges, among others stand out:a) The need to continue the work of de-constructing the inherited eurocentric Christian paradigms and doctrines (such as Original Sin, Incarnation, Suffering, Cross and Crucifixion etc) that many Black Churches and Christians tend to hold on to as if it dropped straight out of the hands of God from Cloud Nine. b) The need to re-claim, give agency and privilege African and African Caribbean religious traditions and cultures( as seen in all the panel presentations). c) And, the need to interrogate and read with extreme caution what we have received as "Sacred Christian Texts". To paraphrase Professor Randal Bailey's challenge: "Is it really in the Texts?"To this end the question of giving greater and equal agency to Black peoples narratives was affirmed as seen in the presentations by Revd Dr Marjorie Lewis and Revd. Dr. Delroy Reid Salmon.
There were a number of other challenges and issue raised. We need to let the discussions continue and find ways to make these ideas real in our practice of faith and faithfulness. I am already looking forward to next year's gathering, please Mama God!
