Dear Revealer readers,
Revealer Editor, Brett Krutzsch
For the past several months, I have been reflecting on my mother’s family history, particularly the Weiss family from the Alsace region of France. I am intrigued by their experiences in a region that has seen diverse cultural influences over the centuries. The Jewish community in Alsace, in particular, has faced significant challenges throughout history. Despite the hardships, there are still Jewish communities in Alsace today. However, my family’s connection to Alsace was severed when my great-great-grandparents migrated to the United States in the 1880s. As a result, I have limited knowledge of our ancestral ties to Alsace.
The June issue of The Revealer delves into the importance of exploring our personal, national, and religious histories to gain a deeper understanding of the present. The issue kicks off with Noah Berlatsky’s piece, “Christian Science as Jewish Tradition,” which examines the adoption of Christian Science by American Jewish women in the early 20th century. This exploration sheds light on issues of assimilation and Jewish identity in contemporary America. Following that, Matthew Cressler’s article, “On the Banality of Evil in Catholic Horrors Films,” analyzes the portrayal of Catholics committing atrocities in recent films and draws parallels to current societal issues. Michael Emerson and Glenn Bracey’s contribution, “Racism and Religion in America,” delves into the historical and present-day dynamics within American Christianity that contribute to racial disparities. Additionally, Gina M. Pérez’s excerpt from “Sanctuary People” highlights the role of religious communities in supporting Latino immigrants facing deportation.
The June issue also features the latest episode of the Revealer podcast, focusing on “Latino Faith-Based Activism and the New Sanctuary Movement.” Gina Pérez joins the discussion on faith-based activism within Latino communities and the sanctuary movement’s significance in protecting immigrants. The podcast explores the challenges faced by immigrant families and the implications of political developments on the Latino community in the United States.
Moreover, the issue spotlights a three-part podcast series on “Conservative Religion and Politics in the United States.” The episodes delve into the perspectives of ex-evangelicals on U.S. politics, the political and religious messages in Contemporary Christian Music, and the experiences of LGBTQ Republicans within the GOP.
The articles and podcast episodes in this issue emphasize the value of uncovering our pasts, even when it may be difficult. Understanding our personal and cultural histories can provide valuable insights into addressing contemporary challenges. As we enter the summer months, I encourage readers to explore their own histories and appreciate the significance of knowing our lineages in navigating present-day issues.
Yours,
Brett Krutzsch, Ph.D.
P.S. Our combined July/August issue will be released in early August. Stay tuned for The Revealer‘s 2024 Summer edition!
