Faithful Inheritances: A Study on the Role of Christianity in Shaping Second-Generation Latinos - Hardcover

by Yamil Acevedo (Author), Elizabeth Conde-Frazier (Foreword by)

Faithful Inheritances bridges academic rigor and accessibility, inviting readers to deeply explore how Christian faith shapes the ethnic identity and sense of belonging among second-generation Puerto Ricans. Over the past four decades, social sciences have extensively examined Latino/a(s) identities, but the influence of Christian beliefs remains underexplored. This book addresses this gap, offering insights that resonate broadly within the second-generation Latino/a(s) community in the United States. Through qualitative research involving participants from Anglo-American and English-speaking Latino/a(s) congregations, this study reveals how faith and cultural heritage intertwine to form unique ethnoreligious identities. These "faithful inheritances" are dynamic legacies that guide individuals in navigating their world, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Faithful Inheritances contributes to scholarly discussions on ethnicity and mission within Christian contexts, highlighting the importance of recognizing cultural nuances while avoiding overgeneralizations. By understanding and honoring these inheritances, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted identities that second-generation Latino/a(s) bring to their faith communities and the broader society.

Author Biography

Yamil Acevedo is the executive vice president and CEO of Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University and holds a PhD in intercultural studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He has extensive experience in academic, leadership, and pastoral roles and has published several scholar and non-scholar articles in theological journals and other means. He is married to Yaremí Alicea, with whom he has two children.