The Pandemic & The Holy Spirit

How may the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced Spirit-empowered theology and practice? What are diverse initial responses? Which unique strengths can Spirit-empowered communities offer during times of global crisis?

Academics and reflective practitioners gathered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to discuss these issues at the 2021 Scholars Consultation of Empowered21. This book is the outcome of those conversations, combining the nine original studies with eleven subsequently commissioned chapters.

The book is organized thematically, beginning with two chapters examining a biblical perspective of pandemics and offering an applied Lukan Pneumatology to post-pandemic life. The book then gives three historical studies before moving to themes of pain, suffering, and depression, justice and oppression, theologizing during the pandemic, and institutional responses, respectively. Among other examples, these chapters share specific case studies of the racialized dimension of the pandemic, as well as how Spirit-empowered communities ministered hope.

Through current and historical case studies and theological examination, this book offers unique insight into Spirit-empowered responses to the pandemic.