Unit 3: Liberation theology

Question 1

What does liberation mean?

Answer 1

To be free

Question 2

What does the Liberation Theology believe?

Answer 2

• According to the liberation theology, God has the power to change situations in the world that are unjust.
• Some Christians have taken this belief to mean that it’s right to stand up against governments that oppress their people, or authorities that abuse their powers
• Christians may take part in peaceful protests or actively support those who are harmed by injustice
• Some supporters of the LT have been killed for speaking out, like Oscar Romero
• Violence may be necessary if peaceful methods fail

Question 3

Case Study: Oscar Romero

Answer 3

• Catholic Archbishop of El Salvador in Central America
• Lots of social injustice in the country
• Tiny, powerful and wealthy minority owned most of the land
• Majority of population was poor and oppressed
• Small Christian groups used to meet to worship and seek comfort in the Bible regarding the situation in the country
• The wealthy people found out and some Christians were persecuted and murdered
• Romero spoke out against this kind of injustice
• Knew another priest, Grande, who was murdered for speaking out
• Romero was killed in his own church
• Didn’t use violence

Question 4

Case Study: Camilo Torres Restrepo

Answer 4

• Born into a rich family in Colombia
• Became a Roman Catholic priest
• Colombian government was corrupt
• Poor left without food and shelter
• Camilo became involved in using violence on behalf of the poor
• Organised a movement which held meetings and campaigns
• Many supporters were factory workers or from universities
• The state tracked many of these activists down, but they simply disappeared (probably because of Camilo’s wealthy connections)
• Joined the National Liberation army and died during combat

Question 5

How much should you write about case studies in a 15 marker?

Answer 5

1 or 2 sentences, don’t write a whole story. Mainly focus on analysing BIBLE QUOTES.