Original Sin?: The Reproduction of Racism in a Multiracial Church

Original Sin? explores the ways that a multiracial church struggles with race, racism, and social activism during a turbulent time in U.S. history. In the shadow of the murder of George Floyd, the authors show how members and leaders of Without Walls Church, a multiracial church claiming over thirty-six thousand members, perpetuate a racial ideology based in color-blind theological teachings that minimizes teachings on racism in the church and social activism outside the church. Barnes and Carter also shed light on church practices and policies that reproduce racial inequality and shaped the church’s early response to the murder of George Floyd. Original Sin? shows us that despite being diverse places of worship and despite shifting demographics, churches like this one face challenges that lead to the reproduction of the racial status quo.