Liberation Theology

January 1, 1987
Liberation theology as an interpretation of Christian faith out of the experiences of the poor has its roots in Latin America. Berryman, from his background as a priest in the Latin American ministry, presents an overview of the revolutionary religious movement. Accepting the premise that pastoral work among the poor is necessarily involved in critique of economic structures, he explains the methods used in "base communities'' and introduces leading figures, clerical and lay, who adapt the teachings of the Gospels to the material needs of deprived people. The significance of liberation theology in governments such as those of Nicaragua, the Philippines and El Salvador is examined with projections of repercussions for North Americans. For the general reader, this straightforward presentation clarifies confusing issues and demolishes some myths about this powerful movement.