Rev. Alexia Salvatierra

This book rode my shelf for nearly two years before I read it. Sometimes you just don't actually read a book until you're ready. I remember seeing Alexia Salvatierra at a conference and was blown away by her passion for justice and her joyful demeanor. So many social-justice advocates get cynical and bitter in the face of systemic oppression. Salvatierra doesn't shrink back from naming the issues but she does so graciously. She presses the Liberation theological vision which privileges the poor and marginalized; however she never loses sight of the fact that her work for justice and truth telling ministers to the rich and powerful as well.

This book, co-authored with Peter Heltzel explores the nature of faith-rooted organizing, contrasting it with Alinsky's secular model. Salvatierra and Heltzel give more space to solidarity, the work of the Spirit and discernment (in contrast to Alinky's work based in mutual self interest). Lots to chew on for anyone thinking about organizing for justice and the common good. Chockful of historical and contemporary examples.… (more)