The Black Social Gospel in Chicago, 1896-1906: The ministries of Reverdy C. Ransom and Richard R. Wright, Jr

Rather than enter the debate over the Social Gospel's stance in regard to the issues raised by new scholarship, this essay focuses on the ministries of Reverdy C. Ransom and Richard R. Wright, Jr. in Chicago at the turn-of-the-century and allow them to speak for themselves. These African-American pastors drew upon both the theology and the practices of the Social Gospel in their ministries. As they struggled for social justice within the community served by their churches, they initiated Social Gospel activities among Chicago's black population.