The Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos

Caribbean Lutherans

History & Biography

“This long-awaited book is a treasure trove of information about the origins of the Lutheran witness to the gospel in the Caribbean. But for many of us, it is much more than that. It is our family history: the good, the bad, the ugly, and the beautiful. With decolonial sensitivity, Prof. Rodríguez has collected and curated for us the "little stories" of how we, Caribbean Puerto Rican Lutherans, came to be. It is a fascinating narrative that interweaves great sacrifices from early missionaries, chaplains, and deaconesses; Bibles being smuggled by Lutheran pirates and corsairs; courageous leadership from wise local lay leaders, especially the women; and all happening against the backdrop of two world wars, increasing racial tensions, and imperial-colonial intrigues. Yet somehow, it all worked, and the Caribbean Puerto Rican Lutheran presence continues to be strong, now sending pastors to the mission field in the mainland US and leadership to the ELCA Churchwide organization! Gracias, José, por rescatar nuestra historia.”