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 See the Model in Action

Talking About Race with  Dr. Carol

The topic of race relations can be emotionally-charged both in culture and in the church. What if those emotions could be part of the key to bridging the differences we often sense? How can principles of psychology and spiritual formation help us have conversations that make things better?

Dr. Veola Vazquez, psychologist, professor, and author, talks with Dr. Carol about scientifically and biblically based ways to have healing conversations about race. And then the two doctors demonstrate such a healing conversation in a very vulnerable and emotional way. You may feel your own emotions stirred up as you listen. 

 Reviews


"Veola Vazquez, Joshua Knabb, Charles Lee-Johnson, and Krystal Hays have written a very helpful and biblically based book that describes their HEAL model for having healing conversations on race focusing on humility, empathy, acceptance, and love. The authors humbly and transparently share their own stories and struggles and provide practical skills and steps for engaging in the process of building racial understanding and unity and overcoming racism. Highly recommended!"

Siang-Yang Tan, senior professor of clinical psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary and senior pastor emeritus of First Evangelical Church Glendale, California


"The history of the church when it comes to race is a mixed bag. Some Christians have done great work to build bridges and work toward racial healing and justice. Others have used their interpretations of the Bible to make things worse. This book is a welcome step in the right direction. The authors bring together their personal and professional experience to provide a practical road map to help Christians who want to become more like Christ and bring about healing in their communities. If that describes you, this book will help light the path."

Joshua N. Hook, professor of psychology at the University of North Texas


"The next generation of scholarship in the world of integration (of Christianity and psychology) needs to speak more directly to the problems of everyday life experienced by both Christians as well as non-Christians. And as I reflect on the many social ills of our day, I cannot think of an issue that is more pressing than the topic of race, and I cannot think of a work more compelling than the cultivation of Christ-inspired healing and shalom. I am so pleased to offer my endorsement of Healing Conversations on Race—it is an honest, personal, and practical resource informed by recent scholarship."

David Wang, Cliff and Joyce Penner Chair for the Formation of Emotionally Healthy Leaders at Fuller Theological Seminary


"Racism in America today is not the same as it was in the past. Substantial improvements have occurred in the lives of African Americans since the end of forced segregation. Yet enormous racial suspicion, animosity, and confusion remain so that, in some respects, understanding between Whites and people of color has gotten worse. Is there anything followers of Christ can do to make things better? I don't know of a better remedy than the one described in this book. Based on biblical teaching, relationship research, and Christian love, the authors' practical but profound model for promoting racial understanding has great potential to change the church—and maybe even the world—one relationship at a time."

Eric L. Johnson, professor of Christian psychology at Houston Christian University