Jay Parini : Trailer for new TV show ` ` Black Jesus '' drawing ire of conservative Christian groups . It shows guy who lives in Harlem , says he 's gay , is black , consorts with rough sorts . Parini : I 'm sure the message of Jesus can survive `` Black Jesus . '' Criticism seems misplaced ; Jesus ' image as lover - of - people runs through Bible . Parini : " I know , he was something of a party animal . He could survive ` ` Black Jesus ''
Jay Parini : Trailer for new TV show ` ` Black Jesus '' drawing ire of conservative Christian groups . It shows guy who lives in Harlem , says he 's gay , is black , consorts with rough sorts . Parini : Criticism seems misplaced ; Jesus ' image as lover - of - people runs through Bible . Parini : " I know , he was something of a party animal . He could survive ` ` Black Jesus ''