Faith & Community--The Public Role of Religion: The Religious Landscape

Hosted by actor Ossie Davis, The Religious Landscape is the opening volume of the 11-part series Faith & Community, which examines the intersection between religion and society, drawing on a new landmark study conducted in the microcosm of Indianapolis, IN, where--unlike 100 years ago--white male Protestants no longer are the sole agenda-setters. Interweaving commentary from such well-known figures as Martin E. Marty and Donald E. Miller, the program looks at the effects of the flight to the suburbs on the congregations of three inner-city churches: Holy Trinity Catholic Church (whose original Slovenian immigrant base has changed considerably over the past several decades; the church runs a kindergarten that attracts attendees who are not necessarily parishioners), the Tabernacle Presbyterian Church (which established a neighborhood Christian legal clinic that boasts a roster of 100 attorneys doing volunteer work), and the East 91st St. Christian Church (an upscale church that contributes to local early childhood education, and offers free backpacks, haircuts, and eye tests at the beginning of the school year). With the escalating growth of religious pluralism, mainstream religions are now sharing the stage with a diverse array of faiths, leading to more voices, wider points of view, and--hopefully--better integration with the community. This thought-provoking program offers an interesting and inspiring look at how secular-based philanthropy can contribute to the greater civic good. Other titles in the series (series price: $349) include: Religion in Black and White, Faith-Based Partnerships, The Role of Religion in Public Crisis, Religion's Role in Healthcare, and Religion and Immigration. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. ()