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Prayer isn't just words whispered in sacred spaces—it's marching in the streets, demanding justice from those in power, and standing in solidarity with the marginalized. This revolutionary understanding of spirituality sits at the heart of "We Pray Freedom," a groundbreaking liturgical collection from theologians Liz Theoharis and Charon Hribar.
The book reimagines prayer as "the work of the people" in its most authentic sense, featuring contributions from over 80 grassroots leaders—unhoused organizers, low-wage workers, and faith activists—who share liturgies born from their communities' struggles. These prayers, songs, and rituals emerge not from theological institutions but from lived experiences of injustice and visions for a more equitable world.
Take the biblical story of the persistent widow, often interpreted narrowly as encouraging consistent personal prayer. Theoharis reframes it powerfully: "This woman goes to this person with power and demands justice and wins it, and that's how we pray without ceasing." This perspective invites us to see prayer not as passive acceptance but as persistent action toward justice.
Both authors bring deep personal connections to this work. Liz Theoharis, raised in a movement family, experienced housing insecurity firsthand. Charon Hribar grew up in a small steel town, witnessing economic devastation when the industry collapsed. Their paths converged at Union Theological Seminary, where they established the Kairos Center, connecting faith communities with economic justice movements.
Whether you're a longtime activist, spiritual seeker, or someone questioning traditional religious practices, "We Pray Freedom" offers a fresh vision of spirituality that doesn't separate faith from action. It's an invitation to join what might be called the "Freedom Church"—not an institution, but a community committed to embodying prayer through working for justice, freedom, and peace in our world.
Visit weprayfreedom.org for additional resources, including music videos and organizing tools, or join the Freedom Church of the Poor virtually on Sundays at 6pm Eastern to experience this transformative approach to spirituality in community.
You can buy their new book here: https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9798889830344/We-Pray-Freedom
