Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (9/07)

In his introduction to "The Gospel of Cesar Chavez" Mario T. Garcia profiles the events in the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez. His intent in this manuscript was to produce a book of the spiritual reflections of Chavez which would inspire the reader to reflect themselves on the topics covered in relation to their own spirituality.

Within the pages of the introduction Garcia has provided insight into the influences that most impacted the character -- virtue, theology, philosophy, and political views of Chavez. Among those who had a profound influence on Cesar's life was Father Donald McDonnell, the writings of St. Francis of Assisi, and the teachings of Gandhi. From these men Chavez took a stance on nonviolence and the importance of sacrificing for others. Another man who was a key influence on Cesar's life was Fred Ross, a community leader for Industrial Areas Foundation.

In his crusade against the injustice of the migrant farm worker Chavez organized the people for effectiveness in strikes and boycotts. In 1968 the well-publicized Grape Boycott which lasted two years took on the moral nature of Cesar's crusades. In a 25-day march from Delano, California to Sacramento Chavez was drawing attention to the need for social justice.

Chavez had a keen awareness of the power of mass media. At the end of a 25-day fast, Cesar invited Bobby Kennedy to receive communion with him.

The 17 chapters of reflections of Cesar Chavez are drawn from countless newspaper articles, interviews, editorials, and various studies completed earlier on the life of Chavez. Garcia chose those reflections that revealed Cesar's spiritual training, his thoughts on the power of faith, human dignity, self-sacrifice, and the poor.

Garcia also included Cesar's views on social justice, non-violence, and the teachings of Gandhi. Individual chapters divulge his view of a pilgrimage, his thoughts on fasting, prayer, and meditation. The final chapters explore the spirituality of antiracism, ecumenism, brotherhood, and the spirituality of non-discrimination.

In recent years I have understood more fully the plight of the farm worker, and the discrimination against various ethnic groups. Reading "The Gospel of Cesar Chavez" has given me a new appreciation of the dedication, and sacrifice Chavez made in his crusade to correct this injustice.

Garcia's work is meticulously researched and documented and provides a wealth of information on the motivation behind the amazing results and effectiveness of Cesar Chavez's leadership.

"The Gospel of Cesar Chavez" is a book, not only for academics, but for the general public, of all backgrounds, seeking spiritual guidance. Mario T. Garcia has successfully provided a model for faith in action through the life and Gospel of Cesar Chavez.