Matthew 25 In Action: What Kind of Christianity? Book Review

On Tuesday February 21, 2023, the Synod of the Northeast hosted a discussion on the book "What Kind of Christianity: A History of Slavery and Anti-Black Racism in the Presbyterian Church" with author William Yoo. The audience was composed of people of various backgrounds and ages, throughout the Synod. William Yoo began by discussing his book and the research he conducted while writing it. He discussed the history of slavery and anti-black racism in Presbyterianism, starting from the colonial period and continuing through the Civil War and into the present day. Yoo discussed how Presbyterianism has been complicit in perpetuating racism and white supremacy, and how the church was often used as a tool of oppression against African Americans. He also discussed the efforts of some Presbyterians to fight racism and promote racial reconciliation. The discussion then turned to the present day, with Yoo discussing the current state of racism in the Presbyterian Church and the need for racial reconciliation. He spoke about the need for Presbyterians to recognize and repent of their past sins and to work towards creating a church that is open to people of all races and backgrounds. He also discussed the need for Presbyterians to engage in meaningful dialogue with African Americans and other people of color to foster understanding and reconciliation. Overall, the discussion was enlightening and informative. Yoo provided a clear and concise overview of the history of slavery and anti-black racism in the Presbyterian Church, while also discussing the need for Presbyterians to work towards racial reconciliation. The audience was engaged and asked a variety of questions throughout the discussion, which Yoo answered thoughtfully and accurately. It was a very worthwhile and informative discussion and I would recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about the history of racism in the Presbyterian Church.