Messiah of Morris Avenue
Just finished reading this book. I was interested in as it had received a fairly good review by Marc Maron (www.marcmaron.com).
The story occurs in the no-longer not-so-distant future when the fundies have gained controlled over most all levers of government and society.
It would seem that the second coming of Christ is at hand. The neofascist Christobrigade is hell bent on nearing the day through war.
And, in fact, the second coming may just be walking the streets of New York.
The story is presented from the point of view of one journalist, who works within the confines of this society, but is willing to attempt to push the envelope a little. Our journalist is intrigued by a possible story of yet another would-be prophet. But this latter-day Jesus is quite unique compared to all the other self-proclaimed prophets.
The story has a lot of parallels to the life of Jesus, which made it rather predictable. Nonetheless, there's some good stuff in the story. Most deeming was an interpretation of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. According to the José (aka Jesus reborn) the appropriate interpretation is Father, Mother and Son. The central message of the messiah of Morris Avenue is to love your enemy. And then there will be no enemies. Unless you understand that we are all children of God (Americans, Israelis, Buddhists, gay, female, black, brown, white, etc.), then you have understood nothing of the Word. He says specifically, "God does not bless America."
The best thing to do is to get your fundamentalist acquaintances to read it. Maybe there is a chance they will be reborn for a last time in a more peaceful, accepting, open view of the world, life and others.
Maybe pick it up for a quick summer read.
Curtis (Atheist)
