Practice Of Church Research Articles

The question of sustainability through reuse in the case of the population-exchange heritage: a critical look at the reuse types and conservation status of the Bursa churches

ABSTRACT This article examines the architectural and socio-cultural changes of the Bursa churches after the 1923 Population Exchange between Türkiye and Greece. Church architecture emerged in Anatolia in the 4th century CE and continued to develop throughout the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. If the takeover of Anatolian cities by the Ottoman state constituted the first significant historical threshold for the reuse of churches as mosques, the Turkish-Greek Population Exchange in 1923 constituted the second threshold. The Bursa Churches were subjected to physical and socio-cultural changes after 1923. Taking into account the current literature on reuse which highlights adaptive reuse practices that decrease energy use, and carbon emissions and contribute to social, cultural and economic sustainability; this study focuses on the critical evaluation of some early twentieth-century reuse practices of churches in Türkiye in terms of their contribution to the social and economic sustainability framework. As a methodology, to evaluate the social, economic and architectural sustainability of the Bursa churches, four different methods were used, and the data collected was holistically assessed to understand the sustainability of the reuse of the Bursa Churches. The four methods integrally utilized are multiple case studies, literature review and archival research, preparation of architectural drawings and conducting interviews. The results show that the introduction and removal of certain religious architectural elements during the conversion of the monuments vary for each structure. From the viewpoint of architectural conservation and sustainability of the monuments, the change in the social structure resulted in the architectural change as well as the change in the spirit of the place. On the other hand, due to economic reasons, the conversion process in the early years of the Turkish Republic was realized with minimum intervention. The paper ends with suggestions to enhance this unique heritage's social, economic, and physical sustainability.

Mennonite Discipleship and Just Peace

Abstract Mennonites have held to the central ethical concept of following the nonviolent Jesus (discipleship) for centuries, but its implications for engagement with the broader society have changed dramatically. Since the 1950s new theological perspectives and church practices have brought forth fruitful social engagement and internationally recognized strategies for peace and justice.

Editorial: When Theological Landscapes Shift: Reimagining Church and Society

This issue of Theology in Scotland begins with an article based on the 2024 D. W. D. Shaw Memorial Lecture delivered by Prof David Fergusson, examining the historical partnership between the church and universities in Scotland.The remainder of the issue reflects on the swiftly changing religious and cultural landscape of contemporary Scotland: ● How do we make sense of the dwindling number of people professing a Christian commitment in contemporary Scotland? ● How do structures enable or stifle creative organic developments?● What future shapes of the church can we discern from both our engagement with Scripture and recent experiments in church practice?

Influence of the teachings and practices of Full Gospel Churches of Kenya on environmental conservation: A case of Embu Evurore District, Kenya

This study sought to evaluate the ways in which the church worshipers practice the teachings on environmental conservation in the Full Gospel Churches in Embu Evurore District, Kenya. Despite the Full Gospel Church's teachings on environmental conservation, there is prevalent environmental degradation in Embu Evurore District, Kenya. This study was guided by behaviour change theory, which states that an individual is a victim of their environment. Descriptive formats were used to collect information, analyse, compare and interpret data. The study targeted the five local churches in Embu Evurore District. A Sample population was obtained through a random sampling technique. The findings of the study led to the conclusion that worshipers' awareness of the practices of environmental conservation influenced how they practised environmental conservation. The study also found out that there were worshippers who were unaware of the conservation measures. The findings of the study contribute to religious knowledge in Eco-Theology. The findings of this study are beneficial to church leaders as they add insight to policy formulation and decision-making on environmental conservation. The findings of this study will sensitise the worshippers to proper practices in environmental conservation.

Genre and Style Metamorphoses of German Choral Cantata of 18th-19th Centuries

The purpose of the work is to reveal the genre-stylistic and spiritual-content instructions of the German choral cantata and the peculiarities of its existence in the musical-historical tradition of the 18th-19th centuries. The methodology of the work has a complex nature and is based on a combination of the principles of interdisciplinary, historical-typological, hermeneutic, art history and genre-stylistic research methods. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the fact that, for the first time, it offers a generalisation of the poetic-intonational specificity of the German spiritual cantata of the 18th-19th centuries and its genre-stylistic metamorphoses in the specified period. Conclusions. The genre specificity of the German spiritual cantata is determined by its contact with the liturgical practice of the German Protestant church. This genre is directly related to the church sermon and therefore was called "sermon music", "motet", "concert", "dialogue", summarised by the concept of Hauptmusik ("Main music of the day"). The contact of the German spiritual cantata with its Italian analogues and opera did not exclude the presence of original features in it, among which the Protestant chorale, based on traditional for the 18th-19th centuries, dominates. polyphonic forms, on the significant role of the instrumental beginning. An essential feature of the genre can be considered its figurative and semantic focus on the reproduction of the sacred aspects of a person's life path, their spiritual ascent-transformation, interpreted in the context of the instructions of the Lutheran faith. The German romantic cantata, represented in the works of R. Schumann, F. Mendelssohn, R. Wagner, and J. Brahms, on the one hand, reflected a wide genre and style spectrum of the creative searches of the named authors, within the framework of which the cantata was synthesised with the typology of various genres – from chamber a vocal cycle, a leader's play up to an oratorio, a dramatic scene (in the works of R. Schuman). On the other hand, the romantics' appeal to the poetics of the choral cantata symbolised the revival of the German spiritual and musical tradition, summarised by the name of J. S. Bach, which was directly reproduced in the cantata compositions of F. Mendelssohn, R. Wagner ("The Brotherly Meal of the Apostles") and works of Y. Brahms. Despite all the differences in the textual basis of the works of the named authors and their aesthetic guidelines (Y. V. Goethe, M. Horn, T. Moore, paraphrases of biblical texts), their unifying quality is the "memory of the genre", focused on the reproduction of the individual's spiritual path and the high didactic and ethical meaning of their inner transformation.

Požehnání v biblické a prakticko-teologické perspektivě: Příspěvek k diskuzi o žehnání párů stejného pohlaví

The study examines the concept and practice of blessing in contemporary Christian churches and reflects on the possibilities of blessing same-sex couples. It emphasises the need to distinguish the blessing of a same-sex couple from the legal act of entering into a civil partnership. The purpose of the blessing is not to affirm or sanctify a particular life form but to bring a couple committed to an enduring relationship of love, respect and fidelity before God, promising his favour, grace and gifts. The study consists of three parts. First, it introduces the concept of blessing in the Old and New Testament. The second part discusses blessing from a contemporary practical theological perspective. It presents blessing as a gift and a task of the church community and as a key motif of casual services. It points to the specific linguistic form of blessing as opposed to prayer, wish and proclamation, presents blessing as an act of communication and reflects on the question of its content and effects. The third part deals with the question of who or what can be blessed and whether it is theologically legitimate to bless same-sex couples. It reflects on the possibility of blessing in the pastoral practice of the Roman Catholic Church, anchored in the declaration Fiducia supplicans, and in the liturgical practice of the Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren. It concludes with a summary of the findings.

A Preliminary National Survey of Accessible Features of Churches in the United States

Religious congregations have been inconsistent in their accessibility to and support of people with disabilities. Limited research has addressed the practices of churches in this area of inclusion. The purpose of this preliminary study was to better understand the landscape of congregational accessibility and explore the accessibility features presently offered in congregations. We randomly surveyed Christian churches in the United States. We analyzed responses from 127 churches using descriptive, correlational, and inferential statistics to determine which accessible features were reported more or less often and how congregational demographics mediated the number and type of accessibility features. Although most congregations offered multiple accessibility features, offerings varied widely. Streaming services, accessible seating, adequate lighting for people with low vision, and gluten-free eucharist elements were the features most commonly offered. Few congregations offered features that conveyed broader efforts to address accessibility. Most respondents indicated that multiple people with varied disabilities participated in their church, though frequency varied widely across types of disabilities. This study provides an initial glimpse into the accessibility practices of Christian churches in the United States. These findings highlight areas of potential reflection and response for churches aiming to support the full participation of people with disabilities.

Keeping the Tensions. The Path to an Open, Inviting, Communicative, and Responsible Practice of Baptism in a Secular Society

Abstract The study deals with the difficulties and challenges being faced by the practice of baptism in contemporary secular society. Based on empirical research on the practice of the Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren, the author argues for an open, inviting, communicative, and responsible practice of baptism that does not erase present tensions but deals with them creatively and situationally. The Church should take seriously the basic inclusive impulse of the Gospel while being aware of its baptismal responsibility, which consists primarily in the subsequent pastoral care of the baptised. The results of the study may inspire those who are involved in the pastoral ministry in similar contexts.

Особливості прояву адиктивної поведінки вірян Церкви Адвентистів сьомого дня в умовах війни в Україні

The study is dedicated to analyzing addictive behavior among members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the context of war in Ukraine. The paper establishes a connection between religious identity and survival strategies in conflict conditions, and also examines the role of church practices in overcoming addictions. Specifically, it explores how religious beliefs can prevent or, conversely, contribute to the development of addictions, what forms of addictive behavior are typical for this religious group during war, and how psychosocial support from the church community can influence the overcoming of stress and anxiety. The research findings show that Adventists have certain advantages in managing addictive behavior during war, but they are also susceptible to the influence of stress and traumatic events. In conclusion, the paper proposes practical measures aimed at protecting believers of this denomination from addictions, particularly through maintaining a healthy lifestyle and active support from spiritual leadership and the community. Special attention is paid to the strategies Adventists use to overcome stress and maintain psychological balance. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms through which war affects the manifestation of addictive behavior and is important for developing strategies of mental support for Christian believers in conditions of prolonged conflict. Key words: addictive behavior, believers, Seventh-day Adventist Church, war, Ukraine.

MUSICOLOGICAL-CULTURAL AND ARTISTIC-AESTHETIC ANALYSIS OF THE GENRE PALETTE OF CHURCH CHANTS ON THE EXAMPLE OF CANONICAL AND NON-CANONICAL WORKS

A comprehensive musicological and cultural cross-section of the specifics of the use of spiritual genres of sacred music during church services is carried out; the problem of the presence of canonical liturgical texts in these spiritual chants is highlighted; The specifics of the existence of the studied genres of sacred music with secular, non-canonical texts on church themes in the Orthodox tradition are determined. A musical-theoretical, artistic-aesthetic and lexical-phonetic analysis of the genre spectrum of sacred music of Ukrainian Orthodoxy, which crystallized over the centuries in church practice and still exists in Orthodox worship, is made. Among the main genres: spiritual Cant, Psalm, Monody, Spiritual Song, church prayer of ancient Ukrainian everyday melody, Canon. It is noted that Orthodox music in symbiosis with oral folk art influenced the formation of the entire genre and style palette of national music, nurtured the aesthetic culture of our people, contributed to the awareness of national identity by means of musical art.

Bessarion on the Value of Oral Teaching and the Rule of Secrecy

Cardinal Bessarion (1408–1472), in the second chapter of the first book of his influential work In calumniatorem Platonis, attempted to reply to Georgios Trapezuntios’ (1396–1474) criticism against Plato in the Comparatio Philosophorum Platonis et Aristotelis. Bessarion investigates why the Athenian philosopher maintained, in several dialogues, that the sacred truths should not be communicated to the general public and argued in favor of the value of oral transmission of knowledge, largely based on his theory about the cognitive processes. Recently, Fr. Bessarion Kouotsis has argued that Cardinal Bessarion’s reasoning draws primarily on the “Disciplina Arcani”, i.e., the rule of secrecy, which was an established practice of the Early Christian Church, aimed at protecting and preserving the core elements of the religion from outsiders. While I find Kouotsis’ approach interesting and thought-provoking—for instance, the idea that Bessarion’s argumentation was likely influenced by Eastern Christian views on the rule of secrecy—I intend, first of all, to discuss why Bessarion did not explicitly mention it. Moreover, I would like to argue that Bessarion’s good knowledge of the long Platonic tradition and Eastern mysticism, encompassing both pagan and Christian elements, should also be considered a significant source. Furthermore, I would like to question Kouotsis’ implicit argument that Bessarion’s views were dominated by his training in Orthodox theology and discuss the possibility that Pletho’s (1355–1454) teaching was the obvious influence for Bessarion’s defense of secrecy. After all, we should bear in mind that Anastos has already pointed out Pletho’s reverence for the rule of secrecy. Finally, I would like to support that Bessarion, in the specific text, focused predominantly on the epistemological and cognitive aspects of oral teaching, resorting to the rule of secrecy only to enhance his views.

The “Miracle” of the Russian Revolution: The Mystery Play in Early Soviet Culture

Some of the very first theatre productions following the Russian Revolution of 1917 were built around Christian imagery and dramatic forms, a surprising choice given that atheism was a key tenet of the new Soviet nation. The first Soviet play, Vladimir Mayakovsky’s Mystery Bouffe, is modelled after the medieval mystery play and depicts workers coming to revolutionary consciousness after encountering a Christ-like figure. Subsequently, several of the earliest Soviet mass spectacles, a vibrant form of state-sponsored propaganda, also drew comparisons to mystery plays. This article examines the interdependence of theatricality and spirituality in these early Soviet mysteries (approx. 1918–21), referencing the context of church practice, the mystery play genre, and Russian symbolism’s earlier fascination with the mystery play. I argue that these Soviet variants on this medieval dramatic form struggle self-consciously with the ironies and the possibilities of borrowing from the mystery in the newly Soviet theatre. Their triumphant messages about socialism and the revolution are nuanced by the essentially religious nature of the genre even as they attempt to replace mystery with theatrical spectacle to create a new model of theatre. By revealing spiritual dimensions of socialist avant-garde aesthetics, these Soviet mysteries can enrich our understanding of both the place of religion in modernism and the consistency of modernist values.

Exploring the Theological Context to Domestic and Family Violence.

This article explores the theological drivers of domestic and family violence (DFV)-specifically intimate partner violence-by engaging with ecclesiastical beliefs and practices of the Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA). Key theological, policy, and public documents were analyzed to understand gender relations, gender roles, marriage, ordination, ethical behavior, and responses to DFV. Findings from the document analysis demonstrate church practice and policy reforms underway in addressing violence against women and supporting safety. Simultaneously, the documents show contested and troubled positions regarding gender relations, the theological context to gender roles and responsibilities and the church's journey of debating (re)configuration of its organizational structure and responsibilities.

Учение священномученика Серафима (Звездинского) о Божественной литургии и Евхаристии

The resurgence of liturgical traditions in Russia underscores the importance of bridging modern church practices with historical continuity. In this regard, the Eucharist of Hieromartyr Seraphim (Zvezdinsky) stands as a significant figure, offering profound insights into the Divine Liturgy and Eucharist. The texts of Hieromartyr Seraphim (Zvezdinsky) are an example of understanding the church experience and contain significant material telling about the practice of church worship, the center of which is the Divine Liturgy. This article reflects on the fundamental aspects of Hieromartyr Seraphim’s teachings on the Divine Liturgy and Eucharist. The former is understood as an integral part of the believer’s life, while the latter occupies a central position in worship. Not only does the Eucharist reflect Christ’s sacrifice, but it also contributes to the purification of the believer’s soul. Through the sacrament of Сommunion, eating the Flesh and Blood of Christ, believers become temples of God, and their souls are cleansed of passions. This constitutes the supreme gift of the Eucharist bestowed by the Lord. In conclusion, the teachings of Hieromartyr Seraphim (Zvezdinsky) offer profound insights into the significance of the Divine Liturgy and Eucharist within Orthodox theology and practice. His writings serve as a rich resource for modern believers seeking to deepen their understanding of these central sacraments and their transformative power in the life of the Church.

Vincentian Liturgical Leadership:The role of the Manuel des cérémonies romaines

Vincent de Paul emphasized the correct celebration of liturgy, as evidenced by his early writings and initiatives. His concern was addressing the varied and often incorrect liturgical practices he observed. To promote uniformity within the Congregation of the Mission, Vincent and his followers developed the Manual of Roman Ceremonies (1662), led by René Alméras. This manual aimed to standardize liturgical practices among seminarians and priests by adhering closely to the Roman Rite. Despite initial resistance and adaptations to local customs, the manual influenced subsequent Vincentian liturgical practices. Later superiors and prominent Vincentians, such as M. Etienne and Giuseppe Baldeschi, continued to advocate for liturgical precision and uniformity. Their efforts culminated in the formation of the Ephemerides Liturgicae, a significant liturgical publication. Vincentian contributions to liturgy persisted through ongoing teaching and publication efforts, influencing both local and wider church practices up to and including the reforms of the Second Vatican Council.

Documentation practices of hypogea churches of Ethiopia: the case of Lay Gayint Woreda, South Gondar

PurposeThis study aims to document the hypogea churches in Lay Gayint Woreda, South Gondar, to provide information for future tourism development practices and serve as insurance against loss of value due to unmanaged deteriorative factors.Design/methodology/approachThe study followed a descriptive research design with qualitative research approach. Data were collected through field observations, interviews and written sources examination.FindingsThe study explored the lesser-known hypogea churches, which have significant tourist attraction values, including environmental, historical and architectural significance. However, the use of these potential cultural resources for tourism development is not yet attempted, and their conservation status is found to be critical. This documentation work is significant both for the sake of future tourism development plans and as insurance against looming cultural losses.Research limitations/implicationsThis study did not record the ancient treasures of the churches because of the current political instabilities that hindered the access of data. However, it has implication for the need of an extensive documentation activity to trace the cultural resources in the remote areas of the country for future tourism development and conservation practices.Originality/valueThis paper documented the remote hypogea churches not only for the purpose of future tourism development plan but also as an insurance of their values against unmanaged destructive factors.

Church music of Kyivan Rus in the formation of religious-aesthetic ideals and mental-ideological attitudes of Orthodoxy

In 2024, the church music of Ukrainian Orthodoxy requires a thorough analysis of its impact on cultural identity and spiritual development over the centuries. Church hymns, through the synthesis of arts and sacraments, facilitated the interaction between music and liturgical text, enriching liturgical practice and the spirituality of Kyivan Rus. In 2024, the problem of the spiritual revival of the nation, its cultural identity through the involvement of hesychast traditions in Orthodox church practice acquires new relevance and expediency. The purpose of the article is to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the religious-aesthetic, theological, and cultural ideas of hesychia, which were manifested in the church-musical practice of liturgical services and influenced the spirituality of the Orthodox person over the course of a thousand-year history. The study applies art history and cultural studies approaches, uses methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison and interaction of cultural affiliation and spiritual progress of the nation. It has been scientifically proven and substantiated that the musical art of the Kyivan Rus became the personification of spiritual transformations, formed the mental and ideological constructs of Eastern Christianity in its ancient Old Rus form thanks to Orthodox liturgical music. According to the results of scientific analysis, it appears that the adoption of Eastern Christianity in Kyivan Rus became a fundamental milestone in the development of its musical culture, which was significantly influenced by the patristic doctrine and spirituality, in particular hesychast views and customs that came to Rus from Athos. It is proved that church music in Kyivan Rus was filled with God’s light, spiritual “energy”, peace-making harmony, balanced tempo-rhythm and soulful melody, it was a manifestation of “sonorous” divine silence, “singing with thoughts”. This research will be appropriate in curricula on the history of music, on the history of sacred art, on Christian ethics and aesthetics, for further scientific and educational research of church Orthodox chants and their relationship with Byzantine hesychast practice in the context of mutual influence on mentality, worldview, religious and aesthetic ideal

The styles of liturgical music of non-Pentatidists in the West and in Russia

The article is devoted to considering the history of two interconnected phenomena: rock and roll, which originated and took shape in the United States in the middle of the last century, and the so-called "second wave of Pentecostalism" (Pentecostal awakening), the date of which also falls on this decade. The clear influence of Pentecostal musical culture on the work of Elvis Presley is shown. The further history of rock and roll and its connection with religion is considered. The process of integrating foreign musical religious culture into the practice of Russian neo-Pentecostal churches is analyzed, an overview of the creativity and styles of Russian artists and musical groups is given.

Discourse on the Substance and Existence of Evangelism According to Literary Descriptions

Evangelism is at the core of the Christian mission, which has been a subject of profound study in religious literature. This article discusses the complexity of evangelism service across time, culture, generations, organizations, and sectors. In an academic context, qualitative research methods with content analysis are employed to explore the substance and existence of evangelism. Through the selection of relevant literature and careful content analysis, this article successfully reveals patterns, themes, and essential understandings related to evangelism. The conclusion of this research emphasizes the importance of the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism, as well as the involvement of individuals and churches in ministry, and then how relevant it is to the context of theology and church practice. This article is expected to make a significant contribution to the development of relevant and impactful thinking and practices of evangelism, while offering a deeper understanding of the role of evangelism in the mission of the church in the modern era.

Should we come to the defence of God? Dealing with an alleged case of blasphemy in predominantly Catholic Philippines

ABSTRACT On 10 July 2023, Amadeus Fernando Pagente, also known as Pura Luka Vega, posted a video of his drag performance on X, formerly known as Twitter. In the controversial clip, he is seen dancing with revellers to a remix of the ‘Our Father’, a prayer attributed to Christ himself, while wearing a gold and maroon outfit with metallic accessories evocative of the vestments of the Black Nazarene, a popular religious icon among Catholics in the Philippines. The post quickly became viral, drew public criticism, and eventually led to Pagente’s arrest on 4 October 2023. Through a survey and analysis of related doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church, from Scriptures to current times, and their application to the case in question, this paper re-examines the ethical issue of blasphemy and the question of defending God, proposing Christ’s patience as an alternative model of response towards the pursuit of peace in an increasingly plural and secular world.