Practical Theology Research Articles

Essence of religion, culture and indigenous language in a unified sexuality education system

Sexuality education is fundamental in higher and tertiary education institutions (HTEIs). Evidence suggests that its effective education is through translations into the first language of learners. However, in global and multilingual cultural communities such as HTEIs, the foundations for these translations are still a researchable area. Notably, in HTEIs adolescents, young adults and adults co-exist and therefore, any translations must be toned to balance across these groups. The aim of this study was to establish strategies that could enable sexuality educators to effectively transfer information that is steeped in indigenous language, religious and cultural meaning without precipitating stigma and taboo issues. The study setting was the National University of Science and Technology where a cross section of indigenous cultures, languages and religions co-existed with other global cultures. A University Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR) methodology was administered by the researchers using a Delphi research approach to students and staff. Multilingual, multilayered, multireligious, and multicultural nature of the setting presented serious challenges that compromised the prevention of stigma and taboo issues when dealing with sexuality education. We recommend that the strategy to present sexuality education in indigenous languages to the generality of HTEIs population should, in the first instance, involve systematic identification of appropriate interventions that are religious, cultural, and language-specific.Contribution: This research reveals paramount ethical and religious violations that have a potential to precipitate opportunistic sexual relationships that may lead to impediments in capacity building for learners. This research can be utilised by academics on the field of Practical Theology, specifically youth ministry and pastoral care.

The LIMM Model

This article offers a missiological research model based on three key missiological concepts: missio Dei, christocentricity, and contextuality (MDCC, for short). The model is derived from a practical theology model that was developed by the Layola Institute of Ministry (LIM). The author refers to the new missiological model as the LIMM model, where the added ‘M’ represents missional action. Since the introduction of the term missio Dei, the focus has shifted from missions initiated and conducted by the church, to the one true mission – God’s mission. In the missio Dei, God sends his Son and the Spirit to the world, and through them sends people to the ends of the earth. At the same time, God is the sender and the content of the sending. The incarnation of culture is God’s message in every if great importance. The LIMM model is characterised by the three key missiological terms mentioned above. From defining the research topic, right through to the practical suggestions for an improved experience, the researcher is guided by these missiological principles. If a research topic does not correlate to MDCC principles, it is not suitable for missiological research and another field of theology should be considered.

“Medivangelism”: History and Antecedents in Ghana

This article explored the link between medicine and sharing the message of Jesus in Ghana. It looked at how medical missions and medical evangelism have played a vital role in bringing both physical healing and spiritual hope to people in need. It also analyzed developments and progress associated with modern medicine and its usage by the church to foster the well-being of Ghanaians. By creating hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare services, churches in Ghana have made a big difference in the lives of those who are often forgotten or lacking medical care. The article focused on three main churches—the Catholic Church, the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, and the Methodist Church, Ghana—and their contributions to holistic ministry over time. The research adopted the qualitative historical approach within the framework of practical theology as the methodology for the study. Primary data was gathered through historical documentation, personal interviews and the researcher’s participation in the missions field as a volunteer. Secondary data were sourced from peer-reviewed articles and books. The research revealed how these churches have combined their faith with their desire to help others, bringing medical assistance and spreading the love of God in the process. By understanding the important role of medical missions, their connection to sharing the Gospel, and the reason why the pioneering missionaries added it to their missions, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the efforts of churches in Ghana and the impact they have on the lives of people in their communities. Keywords: Medical Missions, Medical Evangelism, Medivangelism, Social Action, Evangelism

Islamic spiritual care and negative religious coping


 This article discusses religious coping behaviors in relation to Islamic spiritual care practices. Islamic spiritual care is an established practice, integrated in many European countries’ health and welfare services, and an emerging field of research. I have 17 years of experience as a Muslim chaplain in Danish hospitals and a prison, working with counseling, educating staff, and policymaking in the field of Muslim chaplaincy. In this article, I use psychological theory to analyze positive and negative religious coping, first demonstrating that spiritual care is a practice in Islam that is embedded in its theological and psychological (re)sources. Then, based on two case examples, I analyze negative religious coping among Muslims, which is a topic that has received little scholarly attention. The article contributes to the emerging field of Islamic practical theology and the interdisciplinary relationship between practical theology and psychology of religion.

A post-colonial political theology of care and praxis in Ethiopia’s era of identity politics

This book is a revised version of the author’s PhD thesis that was submitted to Denver University and the Iliff School of Theology. In the introductory section, the author discusses how her social location motivated her to research the topic of identity politics in Ethiopia. She argues that identity politics has been a major factor in Ethiopia’s political instability and violence. Ethiopia experiences frequent identity-based violence. Molla indicates that identity politics has divided Ethiopian society and eliminated in-between spaces where people can coexist in equality, solidarity, and justice. She proposes a post-colonial political theology of care and practice to reframe hegemonic and fragmented identities and create new in-between spaces for dialogue and cooperation. She contends that post-colonial discourse and the praxis of in between pastoral care can disrupt and challenge hegemonic definitions of culture, identity, home, and subjectivity.

To be wounded and yet heal. How two wounded healers helped Henri Nouwen find solitude

This article explored Henri Nouwen’s well-known concept, the wounded healer. After investigating its origins, Henri Nouwen’s use of the term was examined. The article proposed that Henri Nouwen was mainly influenced by Anton Boisen and Vincent van Gogh in his use of the concept of the wounded healer. Nouwen’s interest in these persons was considered to glean how they shaped his thoughts before focusing on he used a model of pastoral analysis, the living document model to autobiographically explore his own wounds, to access them, and to offer what he learned as a means of healing for his audiences. Nouwen recognised himself as wounded and became for his readers a wounded healer. Nolte and Dreyer’s view that the wounded healer concept was a welcome corrective to prevailing models of pastoral care, and De Jong’s view that the wounded healer is a pathway to self-actualisation were used as a bridge to Nouwen’s views on personal spiritual transformation. Finally, Nouwen’s thoughts on transformation involving a movement from loneliness to solitude were investigated, showing that the outcome was a move towards a considered and deeper interaction with the world.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article contributed to scholarship in Christian spirituality by considering the work of Henri J. M. Nouwen and the sources of his concept, the wounded healer. It also considered connections with and implications for pastoral psychology and practical theology.

Doing practical theology ‘from the place where it hurts’: the significance of trauma theology in renewing a practical theology of suffering

ABSTRACT Questions of suffering provoke deep challenges to our theological thinking. Despite being an intrinsic part of the human condition, suffering has occupied a problematic space in our theological history. Whilst traditional theologies have leaned on theodicy to account for the presence of suffering, these tend to concentrate the focus on the why of suffering, rather than the who, and the how. Yet questions of suffering are inextricable from the lived experience of suffering bodies. Theologies which neglect the suffering body, I propose, leave it silenced. This article looks to explore how trauma theologies might inform a practical theological response to suffering which takes the suffering body seriously; a response which is necessarily embodied, witnessed, and disruptive.

Gender-based violence as a destructive form of warfare against families: A practical theological response

War is an appalling crisis and destructive force on human dignity and life. War was permitted in biblical times at the hand of God, with disastrous consequences for the nations of the Ancient World. The current war between Ukraine and Russia is fast becoming a global catastrophe, with the threat of World War III looming. Warfare destroys families, and families are vital units God instituted in society. The critical issue addressed in this article is the ruining effects of gender-based violence (GBV) on family life. Therefore, this article responds to GBV as a social ill and destructive form of warfare against women and aims to propose feasible, viable, and practical theological ways to curb this ruinous issue. Gender-based violence, as a form of warfare against women and children, is one of the most destructive forces regarding family life and the key reason for unstable, disrupted, and fractured families. Because this article is grounded on a practical theological response, its pastoral role is explored. Practical theology builds a theological framework for critical evaluation. It also takes a more direct role on the moral debates of society on issues such as GBV, father absence, and family violence that occurs in Church, family, and society.Contribution: This article employed a descriptive modus operandi on GBV against women and endorses the journal’s focus on family and society who is experiencing a violation of human rights and a life-threatening issue in the field of Practical Theology.

Liturgy’s outlook on the oikumene exposes distorted attitudes and memories of ecumenism

This article explored the interplay between ecumenism and people’s distorted attitudes. Viewed from a South African historical perspective, faith communities have endured a robust experience of denominationalism. The authors were thus interested in the influential impact of attitudes and people’s memories in a praxis that recognises the importance of ecumenism but demonstrates limited efforts to promote it. This aspect is evident in the descriptive-empirical section of this research. Ironically, people are firm in their confession, which explicitly embraces ecumenicity. However, distorted attitudes present challenges in the praxis thereof. The authors applied visualisation as part of the research methodology, and executed the research as developing from the description to systemising (exploring practical wisdom and understanding) to strategising (practising strategic, practical theology). The notion of the oikumene pinpoints the kingdom’s interest, but people are focused on liturgical and other differences, which challenges ecumenical relationships. The authors presented the following research questions: How can an elucidation of ecumenical liturgy serve as a means to uncover negative attitudes and bad memories while simultaneously providing building blocks for fostering the realisation of the oikumene? We offer systemising perspectives to denote the importance of crossing borders to promote ecumenical relations and debate the power of liturgy to enhance awareness.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The authors concluded the article by emphasising that liturgical elements should incorporate an outlook on the oikumene. The attitudes of people should be altered, and a liturgical praxeology can play a pivotal role in facilitating this process.

The future of practical theology: from ‘a tale of two cities’ to a global approach

ABSTRACT In her article ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ (2017) respected American Practical Theologian Bonnie Miller-McLemore describes the ‘two cities’ as: (1) intellectual advancement and stature; and (2) diversity, inclusivity, and representation (2-9). A situation where ‘the conflicts are real; they revolve around power, knowledge, and the forging of a legacy; and there have been casualties’ (2) is portrayed. The articulation of the challenge for the International Association of Practical Theology (IAPT) to be inclusive and international is like that of the British and Irish Association for Practical Theology (BIAPT). Across both sides of the Atlantic, the intention to be fully representative of the context exists; however, the reality for scholars in the margins is that neither goal has been adequately addressed. This paper is a personal reflection on ten years in British Practical Theology. The aim is to consider the future of practical theology beyond inclusion and internationalisation. First, I will discuss the impact of etymology. Second, I present British Muslim Studies as an example of Practical Theology outside the field. Third, the impact of the virtual space in relation to expanding the field is considered. This article makes a call for increased conversation, compassion, and collaboration locally and globally.

A Pilgrim’s Performance: Practical Theology as Convening

Abstract Convening is a mode of practical theology inquiry that stages a counter-performance to the spectacle of prominent logics that order ecclesial life: brand Christianity, silos, and competition. Three parts organize this argument: Part I sets the stage with a preliminary portrait of convening, noting the contextual features of this inquiry. Part II introduces Augustine’s City of God as an interpretive lens to understand convening as a counter-performance to prominent spectacles on display. Part III redescribes convening by combining Augustine’s theological vision of spectacle, performance, latreia, and pilgrimage with the introductory portrait in order to perform what is possible when people of faith gather for collective inquiry.

Is Poland Still the Bulwark of Christendom?

Abstract This article provides a comprehensive examination of the current state of research in Polish practical theology, focusing on the significant pastoral challenges confronted by the Catholic Church in Poland today. Comprising two parts, the study begins with a descriptive analysis of the institutional framework of Polish theology. It highlights the contemporary landscape of Polish ecclesiastical universities and theological faculties, addressing concerns regarding didactics and the declining enrollment of theology students. Additionally, the article explores the recent evaluation principles employed by the Ministry of Education and Science for assessing Polish theological faculties. The second part of the article presents a research-based investigation into the primary pastoral problems in Poland, drawing on selected literature sources. These issues encompass: (1) the decreasing number of dominicantes and communicantes, (2) the Church’s engagement in the digital realm, (3) challenges associated with youth ministry, (4) the decline in student participation in religious education classes, (5) the absence of adult catechesis, and (6) the complexities surrounding the use of religious language. In response to the titular inquiry regarding Poland’s status as a bastion of Christendom, the study offers a cautiously affirmative response, considering certain reservations. Research findings demonstrate that the profile of Polish Catholics has undergone an inevitable evolution towards secularization in recent years, with Polish pastoral care not always keeping pace with this shifting mentality.

Theology for crisis: practical theology and the practice of giving an account

ABSTRACT Practical theology has historically identified the problems that confront individuals and communities as a principal site for theological reflection and research. While such attention to the contextual concerns that confront communities of faith has (re)centred the field, reducing practical theology to reflection on problems underestimates the complexity of the crisis/es individuals and communities face. Secondarily, a limited focus on problems understates the field’s interpretive consequence by reducing practical theology to pragmatic reflection on the social realities that surround faith. In contrast to existing focus on problems, ‘crisis’ provides a category that permits social description and theological reflection about the interplay between divine and human activity in the ordering of a common life. Representing an experience of being brought up short, crisis requires new interpretive horizons and invites individuals and communities to cultivate the practice of giving an account. First, I introduce the crisis in the field as the reduction of theological reflection to problems alone. Second, I defined ‘crisis’, noting how crisis differs from trauma, tragedy, and characteristic damage. Third, and finally, I draw upon Luke-Acts to illustrate how this reframing of practical theology around crisis requires the practice of giving an account of divine and human encounter.

Exploring the expansion of British Practical Theology: an enquiry using c/Critical i/Intersubjectivity, conversation, and autoethnography as a methodological approach

ABSTRACT Can I, as a Brown British Muslim Woman, belong in British Practical Theology? Deploying conversational and autoethnographic methods, and using Courtney Goto’s c/Critical i/Intersubjectivity approach, I reflect on an eight-year doctoral journey. Unexpected insights and deeper awareness into the challenges encountering those engaging in intercultural bridge building are generated. First, I describe the research context and include a relevant précis of my background. Second, I summarise Goto’s c/Critical i/Intersubjectivity approach and emphasise some key ethical considerations in its use. Third, I advocate for bringing dimensions of ‘power, privilege and oppression’ [Goto 2018, 98] into the reflexive work of Practical Theology. Finally, I present a case study deploying c/Critical i/Intersubjectivity by British Practical Theologians and demonstrate the mutual reflexive effect of conversation and autoethnography as methodological approaches. The paper concludes by drawing attention to the enhanced personal and relational awareness created by engaging with those who appear to be different to ourselves. I propose that c/Critical i/Intersubjectivity influences and deepens individual and collective understanding of humanity, and creates space for mutual presence and engagement despite obvious and hidden differences. A call is made for Practical Theologians to undertake intercultural and interreligious exchange with the aim of getting to know one another.

Three Variants of the Concept of Power: A Comparative Analysis through Theological inquiry

This article endeavors to embark on a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted concept of power, employing a comparative and critical lens to examine its various theological underpinnings. The central objective of this study is to discern the affirmative elements inherent in three distinct variants of the concept of power, with the ultimate intention of incorporating these constructive facets into an encompassing integral theory of power. The following are chosen as the subject of analysis: 1) the concept of M. Heidegger (the first option), 2) the concept of M. Foucault (the second option) and 3) the concepts of N. Luhmann and E. Giddens (the third option). The study uses a cultural-historical approach, textual analysis and a comparative method. It has been established that Heidegger, who adopted the concept of the will to power from F. Nietzsche and combined power and being (the main category of his philosophy), could not establish harmony between them. It is noted that the ontological interpretation of power cannot be accepted as adequate. In this respect, Foucault, Luhmann, and Giddens are more correct, since they interpret power as an exclusively social phenomenon. However, their concepts cannot be recognized as fully consistent. Foucault interpreted power as an all-social phenomenon, which is not true. Luhmann and Giddens interpreted power as a social phenomenon, albeit in different ways. The first considers it as a means of communication, and the second - as an active ability to transform. At the same time, both are interpreted by them very primitively. The article concludes that a more adequate concept of power should be sought from other researchers. At the same time, some positive points contained in the analyzed concepts can be included in the integral theory of power. The study and the results obtained in it can be applied primarily in the development of an integral theory of power, and secondly, in the practice of teaching philosophy, political science, political psychology and theology.

Reconsidering David Tracy’s Public Theology in a Digital Age

Abstract While public theology initially developed amid concerns about secularization, its continued flourishing requires attention to the digital. Shaped especially by mediatization, digital intimacy, and accessibility issues, the digital sphere impacts both the idea of ‘public-ness’ and the practice of theology. Building on the work of David Tracy, this article offers four possible approaches in light of his methodological connection between publics and theological subdisciplines: the digital is only an extension of existing forms of mediation, the digital is a feature of society and practical theology, the digital is a new public and needs a new subdiscipline, or the digital is a new context for the various publics and thus requires a contextual theology.

Looking Back: Theological Reflections on the Intersection between Pentecostalism and Ubuntu within the African Section of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa

Syncretism in the African section of South African Pentecostalism followed the emergence of the Ethiopian movement. The latter took the lead in promoting the syncretising of Christianity and African culture and practice (hereinafter referred to as Ubuntu). A similar syncretism emerged in the Christian Catholic Church in Zion in Wakkerstroom, the “black section of the Apostolic Faith Mission”, soon after the departure of Reverend Pieter Le Roux, who was appointed to lead the Apostolic Faith Mission in Johannesburg since John G. Lake was returning to the USA. This article intends to show that such syncretism did not occur in a vacuum. Rather, it was influenced by the interpretation of some portions of Scripture, the influence of John Alexander Dowie’s praxis and some dreams and visions of a leader of the Christian Catholic Church in Zion in Wakkerstroom. This form of syncretism later permeated subsequent sections of African Pentecostalism in the Apostolic Faith Mission, resulting in the emergence of two categories of African Pentecostalism in the church: namely, those who accept this phenomenon and those who abandon it. These past developments position the Apostolic Faith Mission as a prime example to use in analysing syncretism in Pentecostalism and how it could be addressed by taking cognisance of Ubuntu without committing syncretism. Hence, the following question arises: How can theological reflections on the past experiences of the black section of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa contribute to promoting a biblical approach that takes cognisance of Ubuntu without committing syncretism? This article applies the Magadi research method conceptualised for practical theology to answer this question. It further demonstrates that it is possible to promote a biblical approach that embraces Ubuntu without committing syncretism.

Faith Formation and Children’s Agency in the Context of Vietnamese American Catholic Families

In light of the history of immigration during and after the Vietnam War, Vietnamese American families are struggling to live between two worlds: their old culture and nation and their new life in the United States. Parents face a dilemma in raising their children, either to maintain the Vietnamese tradition or to adapt to the new American culture. I propose a Family-Centered Faith Formation model to accompany immigrant children on their faith journey by naming false family narratives and rewriting family narratives using a practical theology approach.

Pantheon research, practical theology, and cathedral studies

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.

인공지능 시대, 교회교육의 과제 : 아스머(Richard R. Osmer)의 실천신학의 네 가지 과제를 바탕으로

인공지능 시대, 교회교육의 과제 : 아스머(Richard R. Osmer)의 실천신학의 네 가지 과제를 바탕으로