The Call of God: Women Doing Theology in Peru - Hardcover

"The Call of God provides a historical and theological context through which we can begin to hear what the women of Peru have to teach us about scripture, poverty, conversion, social responsibility, and the love of God. The book comes alive in its direct quotations from the women themselves as they tell the stories of their lives, their struggles and projects, and their evolving theologies."

"Powers brings to light the theological sophistication of so-called ordinary Peruvian women. In this respect, he is entering into an innovative and vital discussion about how religious and social change are effected in the real world."

Based on conversations with women in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Lima, Peru, The Call of God explores how their faith provides them with an understanding amidst extreme poverty, violence, and displacement. Peru was the birthplace of liberation theology and the poor women of that country were instrumental in its original elucidation. This book introduces the women of El Agustino, where a diverse, dedicated and eloquent group have set out to answer questions, solve problems, and rebuild a society stricken with rampant inflation and terrorism, all in response to the call of God. Without much formal education, these women possess and espouse complex theological propositions with a high degree of independence and proficiency. A careful reading reveals an education of a different sort--one rooted in life's changing experiences; one directed toward a different liberation.