As we know, for ages, some Christians have seen "signs" of the divine in the clouds, in weeping statues, and even in potato chips. I've never understood the logic of these believers. I mean, what's the message? I'm here and I'm watching you all? Keep up the good work? My return is imminent?  You assembled a list of horrors, heathcliffe, for sure! And undoubtedly some evangelicals are fervently rooting for even more tragedies as that would mean the greatest thing that could ever happen, the Second Coming of Jesus. They are hanging on every word in the Book of Revelation, and eagerly awaiting the rapturous events, as described by the Apostle Paul. In my opinion, lunacy, but a powerful, motivating tonic for some. But getting back to the essential role that music and religion have played for so many African Americans I have to think that they provided immense comfort and hope for slaves. The cruel irony is that the book that they drew comfort from also clearly supports the institution of slavery and demanded that "slaves be obedient to your masters."  Peter T.