This 11-session book study is based on “The Land is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery” by Sarah Augstine
Each session is made up of:
- An Opening Prayer
- Opening Thought
- Key Terms Defined
- Discussion Questions
- A Closing Prayer
Note: The book is not included with this book study. You will need to purchase the book separately.
About The Book
Sarah Augustine invites her readers into a deeper understanding of the “Doctrine of Discovery” and the ways in which we must work toward dismantling it. In the process of defining the Doctrine of Discovery, Augustine offers personal examples and explains her perspective as an Indigenous Mennonite activist. By offering this testimony, Augustine challenges readers to do their own contextual work. Furthermore, Augustine calls on the Christian Church to be at the forefront of dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery. She does this by challenging Christians to interrogate their theology, investments, mindsets, and relationships with land. Most importantly, Augustine invites readers to follow the scriptural “Jesus Way” of solidarity and repair.
A central part of Augustine’s argument is Indigenous cosmology and theology. Through stories and personal anecdotes, Augustine invites Western Christians to recognize gaps in understanding and personal/communal idols that hinder solidarity and repair work with Indigenous communities and other marginalized communities. Such introspection is important because the work of dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery starts with the individual, their church, and their engagement with local politics and social work. Augustine emphasizes that this work of solidarity and repair is active, ongoing, and relational. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone with The Land is Not Empty and imagine a different—and more life-giving—future for all people and creation.
Originally published by Religion and Race. Republished with permission by ResourceUMC.