Sowing the Sacred: Mexican Pentecostal Farmworkers in California

Sowing the Sacred explores the development of Pentecostalism among Mexican-American migrant laborers in California's agricultural industry from the 1910s to the 1960s, challenging stereotypes and highlighting the cultural vibrancy of farmworkers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Sowing the Sacred delves into the captivating journey of Pentecostalism among Mexican-American migrant laborers in California's agricultural industry, spanning from the 1910s to the 1960s. During this period, Pentecostalism was often met with disdain, being perceived as a distasteful and cultish sect, with U.S. growers viewing Mexicans as mere workforce, unworthy of citizenship, and industrial agriculture being celebrated for its ability to feed American families while disregarding the exploitation of workers. Farmworkers were often portrayed as culturally void and lacking creative genius, trapped in an endless cycle of migrant work.

However, this book presents a compelling argument that farmworkers from La Asamblea Apostólica de la Fe en Cristo Jesús, despite these challenging conditions, managed to forge a robust socio-religious existence. Through their creative endeavors, they left behind a vast record of cultural vibrancy. By examining racialized portrayals of Mexican workers and their religious lives through images created by the farmworkers themselves, Sowing the Sacred weaves an intimate story of sacred-space making. It explores how these workers meticulously mapped out churches, conducted outdoor baptisms in grower-controlled waterways, and constructed and maintained houses of worship within the fields.

Furthermore, this book delves into the role of historical memory in shaping these narratives. By examining the ways in which these workers preserved and commemorated their religious experiences, Sowing the Sacred sheds light on the enduring significance of their faith and the impact it had on their lives. It underscores the power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing the contributions of marginalized communities in shaping American history.

In conclusion, Sowing the Sacred offers a profound exploration of the development of Pentecostalism among Mexican-American migrant laborers in California's agricultural industry. Through its rich narrative and insightful analysis, it sheds light on the resilience, creativity, and cultural significance of these workers, challenging prevailing narratives and highlighting the importance of recognizing their contributions to American history.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 235 x 157 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197748169