Living into a less colonial way of being together.
Methodism and American Empire investigates historical trajectories and theological developments that connect American imperialism since World War II to the Methodist tradition as a global movement. The volume asks: to what extent is United Methodists’ vision of the globe marred by American imperialism? Through historical analyses and theological reflections, this volume chronicles the formation of an understanding of The United Methodist Church since the mid-20th century that is both global and at the same time dominated by American interests and concerns. Methodism and American Empire provides a historical and theological perspective to understand the current context of The United Methodist Church while also raising ecclesiological questions about the impact of imperialism on how Methodists have understood the nature and mission of the church over the last century. Gathering voices and perspectives from around the world, this volume suggests that the project of global Methodism and the tensions one witnesses therein ought to be understood in the context of American imperialism and that such an understanding is critical to the task of continuing to be a global denomination. The volume tells a tale of complex negotiations happening between United Methodists across different national, cultural, and ecclesial contexts and sets up the historical backdrop for the imminent schism of The United Methodist Church.
A propos de l’auteur
Jørgen Thaarup is from Copenhagen, Denmark. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Seminary, Washington DC and a Ph.D. from Gothenburg University. His appointments in the United Methodist Church have been: dean of the Methodist Seminary in Gothenburg and professor of systematic theology, district superintendent in the Denmark Annual Conference, chair of Academic and Students Affairs at Africa University, advisor theology and ecumenical dialogue at the Council of Protestant Churches in Europe, and author of a number of books and articles, including Wesley Theology in Europe: Christian Thought in European Wesleyan Tradition. He has served as a delegate to six General Conferences, is a member of the Standing Committee of Central Conference Matters for eight years, and a delegate to 11 Central Conferences in Europe. He holds a pastoral appointment to the Jerusalem Church in Copenhagen.