Pantheon research, practical theology, and cathedral studies

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis article represents an attempt by a practical theologian to reckon with cathedral studies in view of research at the Pantheon in Rome. Although cathedral studies and practical theology share much in common, they have not yet been brought into critical conversation. Although the Pantheon is also the Basilica di Santa Maria ad Martyres of the Roman Catholic Church, and not a cathedral, the Pantheon serves similar purposes to cathedrals. The author’s practical theological research project at the Pantheon becomes an occasion to showcase some frameworks and apply some findings of cathedral studies. Developing Pantheon research at the intersection of these two fields deepens Pantheon research while also allowing a critical perspective on the relatively new field of cathedral studies, in service of its further development as a critical discourse in service of academy, Church and world.