Mexican American Religions: Spirituality, Activism, and Culture

This comprehensive collection of essays offers a groundbreaking exploration of the role of religion in the Mexican American community, shedding light on its profound impact on literature, art, activism, and popular culture.

With contributions from leading scholars in the field, this book provides a multidisciplinary inquiry into the rich cultural heritage of Mexican America, making the case for the establishment of Mexican American religious studies as a distinct field of scholarly inquiry.

From the origins of Mexican American religious studies to the utopian community founded by Reies López Tijerina, this book delves into the mystical and prophetic dimensions of the faith, highlighting the ways in which religion has been used to articulate a moral vision that emphasizes social justice.

The book also examines the role of healing in both the Latino Pentecostal movement and the curanderismo tradition in East Los Angeles, as well as the spirituality of Chicana art and the religious overtones of Luis Valdez's video drama La Pastorela: "The Shepherds' Play." With its comprehensive scope and insightful analysis, this book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and multifaceted role of religion in Mexican American culture.