Paulo Freire: His Faith, Spirituality, and Theology

Paulo Freire (1921–1997) is well known around the world for his innovative educational philosophy, which has led many to consider him the “father” of both critical pedagogy and popular education. What is less known about Freire, however, is that his politics and pedagogy were informed by a faith birthed in Roman Catholicism, but which also challenged the church to move beyond individual piety to prophetic action.
Freire’s spirituality was rooted in the conviction that God calls all people of goodwill to work toward fulfilling the vision of a new humanity given by God. To that end, this book—one of the first of its kind discussing Freire—examines the spirituality that was foundational to his life and teaching, inviting all who have been influenced by Freire to consider the deeper spiritual dimensions of their pedagogical and political work. “James D. Kirylo and Drick Boyd’s powerful text on the faith, spirituality, and theology of Paulo Freire provide a unique and much needed contribution to our understanding of one of the most influential educational philosophers of the 20th century.” – Antonia Darder, Leavey Endowed Chair of Ethics & Moral Leadership at Loyola Marymount University and Distinguished Visiting Professor at the University of Johannesburg “James D. Kirylo and Drick Boyd have made an important contribution to our understanding of Freire and his work, and in so doing have taken us further down the long road to justice.” – Peter McLaren, Distinguished Professor in Critical Studies, Co-Director, The Paulo Freire Democratic Project and International Ambassador for Global Ethics and Social Justice, College of Education, Chapman University “This book is indeed an invaluable read for anyone interested in exploring the often-overlooked spiritual dimension in the work of one of the most influential educators of the 20th century. Freire’s pedagogy was deep-rooted and substantiated by his Christian faith, which provided him the inspiration to work relentlessly to denounce all systems of oppression that dehumanize people and steal their agency and to announce the sacredness of life which implies dignity for all.” – Débora B. Agra Junker, Founder and Director of the Cátedra Paulo Freire at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary