Transpacific Political Theology

The essays presented in  Transpacific Political Theology are an impressive and welcome contribution to the expanding field of political theology. They affirm the importance of the Transpacific as a site of geopolitical rivalries and of theological production. In this way, these essays develop a fresh form of postcolonial thinking and challenge European construal of political theology. Vital reading!

~Peter Scott, Samuel Ferguson Professor of Applied Theology & Director of the Lincoln Theological Institute, University of Manchester

Transpacific Political Theology expands the horizons of current political theology in two welcome ways. First, it broadens geographic and geopolitical perspectives by adding not only range but depth and complexity. Second, it broadens the methodological toolbox of political theology by contributing reflections on capitalism, imperialism, and multiple as-yet unexamined layers of identity and power.

~Joerg Rieger, Distinguished Professor of Theology, Vanderbilt University

Transpacific Political Theology is a brilliant and compelling expansion of political and liberation theology that reckons with the injustice and intergenerational trauma of colonialism with courage and compassion, and it celebrates the catalytic power of communities of expansive belonging and interdependence. I highly recommend that all who are committed to the work of decolonization and of generative interdependence accept this invitation with open minds, open hearts, and gratitude for this compelling and evocative work.

~Sharon D. Welch, author of  After the Protests Are Heard: Enacting Civic Engagement and Social Transformation

As we navigate our way through the aftermath of a global pandemic and the devastating effects of climate change, the diverse essays in this brilliant and sorely needed book discuss the haunted histories, meanings, and definitional limits and usefulness of the term 'transpacific.' The richness and complexity of these discussions challenge the oppressive systems, regional wars, and geopolitics that threaten an increasingly fragile, post-World War II global system based on collapsing definitions of race, gender, religion, and national sovereignty. The essays also provide neglected cultural resources and new understandings for how we might move toward a more just and sustainable future.

~Rita Nakashima Brock, co-author of  Soul Repair: Recovering from Moral Injury After War and Senior Vice-President for Moral Injury Recovery Programs at Volunteers of America

Diverse, creative, and challenging, these essays set the standard for scholarship on religion and politics across the Pacific. It is essential that scholars of political theology think seriously about or start with the Pacific context. It not only 'applies' political theology, it invites us to rethink the fundamental assumptions and postures that guide the field.

~Vincent Lloyd, Professor of Theology and Religious Studies, Villanova University