HELP 2023 January Term Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG] Print this Page Add to My Bookmark (opens a new window)

JAN 110 - God and Gangs: Redeeming the Streets and the Sacred

For many Latin@s gang-life is a forced reality that often functions as alternative communities of not only family life but also that of divine life. For Latino and Latina gangs, brotherhood and sisterhood function as a unified body-much like the body of Christ. The understanding of community and relationality is not unlike that of the church body. The language, rules, rituals, symbols, and structures of gang life parallel that of church doctrines and liturgy. When Latinos and Latinas join gangs, they are “blessed in,” learning the necessity of communal life, faithfulness, and service to one another. In their “new communal life” Latin@s invoke the protection of God, the Virgin Mary, and the saints-the sacred is alive in gang life. But how? And where? And when? And wait, what? This course will explore the complexities of Latin@ gang life to determine what, if anything, is disclosed about the mystery of God and how this understanding may lead towards the redemption of the streets, and the sacred. Students with an academic and/or professional interest in sociology, criminology, education, ethnic studies, political science, psychology, theology, and/or ministry may find the course of particular relevance.

Instructor(s): Anthony Suárez-Abraham
Email:  as116@stmarys-ca.edu
 

Prerequisites & Notes
Prerequisites:  TRS 097; or TRS 189, which is often taken by transfer students. Or by Permission of the Instructor.
Course Fee: 10
 

Credits: 1

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