The Liberation of Puerto Rico: A Theological Perspective- 2nd Edition

                                                    Abstract

                                                   The Liberation of Puerto Rico: A Theological Perspective

This thesis is designed to make a case for the political and economic independence of Puerto Rico.  Historical and theological sources have been used to provide a foundation for the arguments for independence and self-determination.

The historical sources have been used in order to provide sufficient information concerning the exploitation of Puerto Rico by Spain and the United States. Puerto Rico's history was examined in the context of the quest of these two countries from imperial power in the Western Hemisphere.  Spain and the United States are the countries that have been responsible for the colonization of Puerto Rico.

A knowledge of history is essential to a proper understanding of theology.  That is why the historical and theological sources have been combined. The theological sources have been used to give validity to the case for independence.  In conjunction with the historical sources, they constitute the basis on which the advocacy for liberating Puerto Rico is made.

The Bible has been treated as a theological source.  It is the primary source of the Christian's understanding of God, humanity and the world.  The use of Scriptures and Latin American Liberation Theology leads one to the definite conclusion that the present political arrangement in Puerto Rico requires change. This is so because Puerto Rico is part of Latin America.


                                              The Liberation of Puerto Rico: A Theological Perspective

                                              A Dissertation Presented to the Faculty of

                                              Colgate Rochester Divinity School

                                              Bexley Hall

                                              Crozer Theological Seminary

                                              In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree

                                              Doctor of Ministry

                                              By

                                             Juan A. Carmona

                                             April 1982




                                           Preface to the 2nd Edition
                                           




                                         

This second edition is being written and submitted to my readers 34 years after the original writing and submission to the faculty of the Colgate Rochester Divinity School/Bexley Hall/Crozer Theological Seminary. There have been changes in both Puerto Rico and in my personal life since the writing of the first edition. Different people have served as Governors of the island.  The two political parties, i.e. the Popular Democratic (Commonwealth) Party and the New Progressive (Statehood) Party have each had their turn in having governors from their particular party presiding over the government of the island.

In November of 2009, my wife of thirty five years (Luisa) and I were divorced.  That same year, my present wife (Ruth) and I were married.  My former wife (Luisa), passed away on March 8, 2016.  My three children Geoffrey, Jennica, and Jessica are now grown adults exercising their respective professions in different geographical locations.  I am honored and privileged to be a grandfather to three children: Gloria Belen, Abigail Naomi, and Benjamin.

As in the first edition, I dedicate this dissertation to my three children, and also to the memory of their mother who was with me at the time of writing. My children, in their own way, have been committed to the struggle of our Puerto Rican people for self-determination, and also for the democratic rights of Puerto Ricans in the Diaspora of the USA.  I trust that they will continue in that struggle. My hope and prayer is that my grandchildren will also be engaged in that struggle.

I dedicate this book to my dear childhood friend and present wife Ruth who has been my cheerleader and motivator in continuing my writing and publishing career.  I thank her for her love and ongoing support.

Juan A. Carmona

July 2016